That's especially true in forage fields, where a spark can quickly wipe out a crop, as well as any equipment that may be in he field.
Field fires cause more the $30 million in equipment losses each year, not counting crop losses resulting from downtime and personal injury.
Not only is equipment part of the loss in a field fire, it can actually be the source of a fire. Equipment is designed and engineered to protect against causing fires however, sparks from a faulty exhaust system as well as grease, oil or crop buildup around the engine can greatly increase the chance of a fire.
Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of farm equipment causing a fire in the field:
Be prepared despite your best intentions and good maintenance, a field fire can still occur. Your best source of protection is to make sure every machine is equipped with two fire extinguishers, one mounted in the cab and one where it can be reached from the ground.
Check your extinguishers regularly, paying special attention to the pressure gauge. To function effectively, the gauge must show adequate pressure to expel the powder inside. Once an extinguisher has been even partially discharged, get it fully recharged before placing it back in service. During even a brief discharge, the tiny dry chemical particles will create a small gap in the internal seal of the extinguisher valve. This tiny opening will allow any remaining pressure to leak out in a few hours or days
Keep a cell phone or two-way radio with you at all time so you can summon help quickly. Have an abundant harvest season and be safe.