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During 2006-2010, an estimated 830 structure fires in barns were reported to U.S. fire departments per year, with associated losses of: 1 civilian death, 10 civilian injuries, and $28 million in property damage annually.

These fires are more common during the colder months of the year (peaking in January) and between noon and 9:00 p.m. Heat lamps are the leading equipment involved in the ignition of barn fires, followed by wiring and related equipment, and lamp, light bulb or lighting An agricultural crop, such as fruit or vegetable, is the leading item first ignited in these fires (15%), followed by a structural member or framing (13%).

Given that the top two areas of concern are heating equipment and electrical distribution/lighting, where are your areas of risk for your operation? How do you minimize and manage the risk?

from http://www.nfpa.org/research/reports-and-statistics/fires-by-property-type/storage/barns

http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/research/fact%20sheets/barnsfactsheet.pdf

Source: Structure Fires in Barns, Ben Evarts, NFPA Fire Analysis and Research, Quincy, MA, June 2012