Barn fires are one of the more challenging structure fires for first responders. Barns are
highly flammable buildings that are often filled with highly combustible items. These structures
go up quickly and burn fast. The vast majority of barn fires occur late at night or early morning
hours, often going undetected until flames are showing. Due to the locations of barns, by the
time the fire department arrives, the barn is quite often fully involved.
Adding to the challenge of a barn fire is that many of these structures house animals. Depending on the type of animal and barn design, some animals can be quickly removed, while others are impossible to evacuate.
Fire departments in areas with barns should hold barn fire education nights for farmers and livestock-related facility owners. Along with providing the basics of barn fire prevention, you should encourage the owners to invite your department out to tour their facilities and barns to become aware of the location of hazards and water sources, and provide you with information about the animals on their farm and the design of the barns.
By educating your department on what to expect at a barn fire and giving them some basic guidelines, you will be able to more effectively respond to a barn fire and keep your crew safer.