Firefighters say dry conditions, long working hours, and dust buildup are increasing the risk of dangerous equipment fires.<\/p>\n
The department issued its warning Thursday, October 22, as farmers continued harvesting crops across the region.<\/p>\n
Several Combine Fires Reported Near Larimore<\/h2>\n
Larimore firefighters have responded to several combine fires in recent days.<\/p>\n
The department shared photos from recent fire calls to show how quickly harvesting equipment can become dangerous.<\/p>\n
Officials say dry crops and accumulated dust can create serious fire hazards around hot machinery.<\/p>\n
Once flames develop, they can spread rapidly through equipment and nearby crops.<\/p>\n
Standing crops and dry plant material can allow fires to grow before crews arrive.<\/p>\n
The department has not released a complete damage estimate or an exact number of recent fires.<\/p>\n
Farmers Urged to Inspect Equipment Frequently<\/h2>\n
Firefighters are asking farmers to inspect combines, tractors, trucks, and other equipment throughout the harvest season.<\/p>\n
Operators should watch for overheating, unusual odors, and heavy dust or crop residue buildup.<\/p>\n
Regular inspections can help identify potential problems before they lead to dangerous fires.<\/p>\n
Farmers should pay special attention to engines, belts, bearings, and other parts that generate heat.<\/p>\n
North Dakota State University Extension also recommends checking electrical wiring and hydraulic systems for damage.<\/p>\n
Dust and dry crop material can ignite when they contact hot surfaces or sparks.<\/p>\n
Additional prevention tips are available through NDSU Extension’s combine fire safety guidance<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Larimore Fire Department recommends keeping at least one charged and accessible fire extinguisher on every piece of harvest equipment.<\/p>\n This includes combines, tractors, trucks, and other machinery working in the fields.<\/p>\n NDSU Extension recommends two charged ABC fire extinguishers on combines.<\/p>\n One should be inside the cab, with another mounted outside near ground level.<\/p>\n Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to ensure they are ready for an emergency.<\/p>\n Fire officials are stressing the importance of calling 911 as soon as warning signs appear.<\/p>\n These signs may include smoke, unusual burning smells, or overheating equipment.<\/p>\n Farmers should not delay reporting a possible fire while waiting to see whether conditions improve.<\/p>\n Early emergency calls can give firefighters more time to protect machinery, crops, and nearby property.<\/p>\n The fire department says protecting lives is more important than saving farm equipment.<\/p>\n Operators should only attempt to extinguish a small fire when it is clearly safe.<\/p>\n If flames grow or threaten anyone nearby, people should move away immediately.<\/p>\n Farmers should remain at a safe distance until emergency crews arrive.<\/p>\n Operators can also review current fire conditions through the North Dakota fire danger and burn restrictions map<\/a>.<\/p>\n Photos and department information are available on the Larimore Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page<\/a>.<\/p>\n Additional details about the warning were published by Valley News Live<\/a>.<\/p>\n Firefighters urge farmers to remain alert throughout harvest and report any signs of fire immediately.<\/p>\n I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News<\/a>.<\/p>\nFire Extinguishers Should Be Ready<\/h2>\n
Call 911 Immediately if Smoke Appears<\/h2>\n
Personal Safety Must Come First<\/h2>\n
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