Larimore Firefighters Warn After Multiple Combine Fires

LARIMORE, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) — The Larimore Fire Department is warning farmers after responding to multiple combine fires during the fall harvest.

Firefighters say dry conditions, long working hours, and dust buildup are increasing the risk of dangerous equipment fires.

The department issued its warning Thursday, October 22, as farmers continued harvesting crops across the region.

Several Combine Fires Reported Near Larimore

Larimore firefighters have responded to several combine fires in recent days.

The department shared photos from recent fire calls to show how quickly harvesting equipment can become dangerous.

Officials say dry crops and accumulated dust can create serious fire hazards around hot machinery.

Once flames develop, they can spread rapidly through equipment and nearby crops.

Standing crops and dry plant material can allow fires to grow before crews arrive.

The department has not released a complete damage estimate or an exact number of recent fires.

Farmers Urged to Inspect Equipment Frequently

Firefighters are asking farmers to inspect combines, tractors, trucks, and other equipment throughout the harvest season.

Operators should watch for overheating, unusual odors, and heavy dust or crop residue buildup.

Regular inspections can help identify potential problems before they lead to dangerous fires.

Farmers should pay special attention to engines, belts, bearings, and other parts that generate heat.

North Dakota State University Extension also recommends checking electrical wiring and hydraulic systems for damage.

Dust and dry crop material can ignite when they contact hot surfaces or sparks.

Additional prevention tips are available through NDSU Extension’s combine fire safety guidance.

Fire Extinguishers Should Be Ready

The Larimore Fire Department recommends keeping at least one charged and accessible fire extinguisher on every piece of harvest equipment.

This includes combines, tractors, trucks, and other machinery working in the fields.

NDSU Extension recommends two charged ABC fire extinguishers on combines.

One should be inside the cab, with another mounted outside near ground level.

Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to ensure they are ready for an emergency.

Call 911 Immediately if Smoke Appears

Fire officials are stressing the importance of calling 911 as soon as warning signs appear.

These signs may include smoke, unusual burning smells, or overheating equipment.

Farmers should not delay reporting a possible fire while waiting to see whether conditions improve.

Early emergency calls can give firefighters more time to protect machinery, crops, and nearby property.

Personal Safety Must Come First

The fire department says protecting lives is more important than saving farm equipment.

Operators should only attempt to extinguish a small fire when it is clearly safe.

If flames grow or threaten anyone nearby, people should move away immediately.

Farmers should remain at a safe distance until emergency crews arrive.

Operators can also review current fire conditions through the North Dakota fire danger and burn restrictions map.

Photos and department information are available on the Larimore Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page.

Additional details about the warning were published by Valley News Live.

Firefighters urge farmers to remain alert throughout harvest and report any signs of fire immediately.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.