Harvest fire risk advice issued as fields stand tinder dry

Hot dry conditions across the UK have increased the risk of harvest fires, with fire services and farming groups warning farmers to take caution.

Combines and standing crops have already gone up in flames this harvest season, with fire services responding to incidents across the country, including in North Yorkshire, Suffolk and Devon.

Herefordshire farmer and NFU county chairman Martin Williams said tinder dry fields this harvest could lead to further fires.

See also: Hot weather triggers early barley harvest nationwide

He advised farmers to be prepared and have bowsers filled with water ready to use in case a fire broke out.

Francesca Reason, an associate at law firm Birketts, said: “In hot weather, farmers and landowners must manage heightened fire risks by conducting regular assessments, securing combustible materials, and maintaining equipment and electrical systems.

 “Make sure all fire safety procedures are effective and up-to-date, and include communication provisions for lone workers – such as fully charged phones or radios.

“Legal compliance safeguards livestock, property and lives during peak fire-risk conditions.”

The NFU has recommended farmers check electrical equipment, keep flammable products such as fuel and straw separated where possible, and ensure fire emergency plans are up to date.

NFU deputy president David Exwood said: “Taking five minutes to plan ahead can prevent serious accidents, and prevention is always quicker than curing the problems afterwards.

“With the dry weather increasing fire risk, it’s vital to stay alert. NFU Mutual’s farm fires report shows the cost of fires rose by 37% to over £110m, a stark reminder of the importance of robust fire prevention measures.

“Simple steps like checking machinery and farm transport are maintained and in a safe working condition, cleaned regularly to prevent build-up of dust and implementing fire suppression systems, are all proactive ways that help protect lives and farm businesses and ensure everyone gets home safe at the end of the day.”