One of the things we hope that you never have to go through, but is something many farmers face is a combine fire in the middle of harvest. Especially with years as dry as this year, it is more common than any of us would like.

 

First and foremost, your safety is our number one concern. However, after the fire is put out, that is when you normally starting worrying about how to finish harvest without a combine. That is where we come into play! Our goal as your insurance agency is to have you back in the fields harvesting as quick as possible. In order for us to do this we need to know when things happen. Make sure you call your agent so we can get out to the scene. Take pictures! They could be useful in the claims process. When we are on site, we will also take pictures, but many times we don't know about the fire until the fire is put out. So remember pictures. Utilize us and our knowledge of how to get you through the claims process as quick as possible. We will file the claim as soon as we hear about the fire. Many times, the company will not have an adjuster assigned for another day or so. So let us help walk you through what will be happening, allow us to start trying to find a combine for you to rent for the time being and make sure you understand that this is why we are here. Never feel bad for questions or phone calls. Your adjuster ultimately makes the decisions and can answer your questions 100%, but we are also here to help guide you.

Our agency wants you to be able to finish harvest as quick as possible. Harvest season is a busy time of year for you and it is important to us that we don't slow that down any more than we have to after a combine fire. The combine fire featured in the pictures above had followed all the normal safety precautions and still had a fire. But we still like to point out those precautions for future information so that maybe, we together, can prevent as many fires as possible.

1. Conduct a thorough inspection of the combine prior to the start of the fall harvest. Make sure that you consult the owner’s manual on proper inspections and cleaning.
2. During inspections and cleanings, make sure the engine is shut off, the parking brake is set, and the key has been removed from the ignition.
3. Know your machine well, and make sure you focus on cleaning areas that collect unnoticed debris, chaff and straw. Also check those operating areas where temperatures are likely to be elevated, such as around the engine compartment.
4. Inspect the fire extinguishers that are located or mounted on the combine to ensure that they are fully charged. Two 10-pound, ABC-type extinguishers are recommended, with one located near the operator’s cab and another readily available from ground level.
5. During periods of heavy use during harvest, take a few moments during each day to remove accumulated crop material and debris. Dry, hot and windy conditions can add to the accumulation of debris; so be diligent about daily (and/or multiple) inspections.
6. During harvesting activities with a farm combine or any farm equipment, carry a cell phone to report emergencies if they occur. It’s important to provide responders and others who are coming to your aid to have a complete set of directions to find your location. Don’t disconnect responders until they are aware of your location and the nature of the emergency.

Many in the area have finished are are close to finishing harvesting for the year. We hope you continue to have safe harvests!