Preventing Combine Fires

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After our unusually wet summer, Mother Nature did not do us any justice by deciding to turn off our water faucet for such a long period of time.  Now, in the midst of a drought and a County Burn Ban our combines and farm equipment are going full force.  Fields are beyond dry and run a high risk of catching fire.

Not only do we worry about crop ground catching fire, but also have concerns about combines catching on fire.   Combine fires can cause costly and devastating damage.  Take these steps listed on AgWeb.com to help prevent combine fires:

Mechanical Tips:
• Use a pressure washer or a compressed air blowgun to thoroughly clean the machine.
• Remove excess crop residue from rotating units.
• Always inspect the machine for buildup of harvest materials before operation.
• Keep your work area clean.
• Check lubricant levels often, and grease fittings regularly. Fix leaking oil, fuel, or hydraulic lines promptly. Check belts for proper tension and wear to reduce friction.
• Carefully check bearings for excessive heat. Overheated bearings are a major cause of combine fires.
• Check valve covers for oil leaks that can ignite as oil runs down manifolds.
• Check for cracked or loose exhaust pipes, ports and check the manifold.
• Pay particular attention to the exhaust system, checking for leaks, damage, or an accumulation of crop residue.

In the Field Tips:
• Put out any fire immediately.
• Always have a fire extinguisher within reach.
• Keep at least one fully charged, 10-lb. fire extinguisher on all equipment. (Or carry two: one in the cab and one where it can be reached from the ground.)
• Visually check your extinguishers (at least) monthly, looking for cracks in the hose and inspecting the gauge to see if the extinguisher is fully charged.
• Have a professional fire extinguisher company inspect your fire extinguishers annually.
• Carry your cell phone or two-way radio with you at all times so you can call for help.
• If a fire does occur, CALL 911 FIRST, and then attempt to extinguish the fire with your fire extinguisher.  Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire and sweep from side to side. Remember P.A.S.S., which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

For more information on preventing combine fires contact the McLean County Cooperative Extension Service at (270)273-3690.  Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability or national origin.