07/11/2026
Using equipment while on dry grass or crops, especially when paired with high winds or hot temperatures, can quickly lead to a wildfire. Help to prevent equipment-related fire starts by following these guidelines:
đź›» Secure all chains on your truck to prevent any dragging.
🛠️ Service and inspect all harvest equipment before the season. Clean chaff and debris from exhaust systems, bearings, and cutting heads daily. Chaff buildup on hot engine components is a primary ignition source.
🧯 Carry a fire extinguisher on every piece of harvest equipment and on every service and fuel vehicle in the field.
đźšś Mow or disk fire guards/breaks around fields before harvest, particularly on the upwind sides. A cultivated perimeter can stop a grass fire from reaching standing grain.
⚠️ Stop harvesting when winds exceed 25 mph or relative humidity (RH) drops below 15%. Insurance rarely covers losses from operator-caused fires under extreme conditions.
đź’§ Keep a water truck or ATV with a small pump and tank unit in or near the field during operations.
