Arson advice for farms
Farms are vulnerable to arson. Isolated locations; open boundaries and readily ignitable hay and straw make them an easy target.
How to help prevent arson on farms:
- provide, repair or replace damaged fencing or gates
- install intruder alarms and security lighting. Install warning notices
- make sure outbuildings are secure
- check any fire fighting equipment works
- prepare a fire routine and action plan and make sure all farm workers know what to do
- hay and straw should be removed from fields as soon as possible after harvesting
- don’t store hay/straw with buildings which store fuels, chemicals, machinery or livestock
- petrol, diesel and other fuels should be stored in secure areas and storage tank outlets should be padlocked
- fertilisers and pesticides should be locked away securely
If a fire starts:
- call 999
- only attempt to fight the fire if it is safe
- send someone to the farm entrance to give directions
- prepare to move livestock if the fire spreads
- prepare any farm machinery to help Fire and Rescue