BARN FIRE SAFETY

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Anne Arundel County has many barn structures. In 2016, over 60 firefighters fought a barn fire in Lothian. Howard County saw a huge barn fire in July of this year. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants to ensure your barn is safe.

Agriculture remains a top industry in Maryland with 381 farms totaling 28,111 acres in Anne Arundel County alone.  Anne Arundel County has resources in place to support our county farmers and agricultural producers and meet the needs of the agricultural business community.

Many of the agricultural barns are located in Southern Anne Arundel County. Fire safety is an important part of farm life. People, animals, and property are in danger when fire breaks out on a farm. Inspect your barn and outbuildings for fire hazards to reduce the risk of tragic loss:

Heat lamps and space heaters are kept a safe distance from anything that can burn.

• Electrical equipment is labeled for agricultural or commercial use.
• Lightbulbs have covers to protect them from dust, moisture, and breakage.
• Dust and cobwebs around electrical outlets and lights are removed.
• Oily rags are stored in a closed, metal container away from heat.
• Feed, hay, straw, and flammable liquids are stored away from the barn.
• Exits are clearly marked and pathways are clear.

Barns are required to have certain safety equipment including:

• ABC-type fire extinguishers near every exit and within 50 feet from any point in the barn.
• Fire alarm system
• Sprinkler system
• Carbon monoxide detection system.

For more information on barn safety, contact the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC).