Dry conditions have helped farmers get in the fields to harvest a lot of their grain, but also come with risks.

Iowa State University Extension Field Agronomist Mike Witt says that while the dry conditions have been helpful, there is also a risk that could cause harm to life and property. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that with things being so dry, the possibility of field and equipment fires is much higher, especially when winds are strong and are blowing dust into equipment, where a spark could get a fire started. Witt explains that there are a few things farmers should remember about trying to stay safe in case of a fire.

“Either number one, you have a fire extinguisher that is close by. A fire extinguisher that is in the truck or the cab of the tractor doesn’t do you any good if the combine is the thing that catches on fire. Also, people need to remember that if you are in those type of scenarios, always choose safety first over equipment.”

Witt reminds farmers and those helping them that their lives are not replaceable, while equipment can be replaced. He adds that if it appears that the fire may begin to spread quickly and is out of control, get somewhere safe and call 911 to get a fire department there to put out the fire.