Harvest time can be a dangerous time especially with fires that can crop up during times of high heat and dry conditions. Much of Iowa has experienced drought conditions this fall which has added to that risk. Iowa State University Extension Ag Engineer Kris Kohl says their research shows that during drought, field fires are caused mainly by high winds.
He says steps producers can take to try to prevent fires during harvest include having fire extinguishers in the combine and also mainly to have a disc along to help with any possible emergencies.
Kohl says fires can happen quickly and spread rapidly so he advises farmers to use a leaf blower to keep debris away from the combine.
Kohl also precautions growers to make sure they keep an eye out for those children around the farm equipment that are younger than fifteen. He also says even with older people, a slip can result in a farm accident very quickly.
