Fire safety warning ahead of Harvest after death of farmer in West Sussex
The victim's tractor struck a power line and caught fire in Fishbourne
Farmers are being urged to stay safe this harvest season after fire crews were called to a fatal accident in West Sussex.
A farmer died after his tractor struck a power line and caught fire in a field off Salthill Road in Fishbourne, near Chichester, in May.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service's rural engagement officer, Ben Applin, said: “We want to ensure that the local farming community do not have to endure any tragic loss of life again and are putting resources in place to raise awareness to prevent such incidents in the future.
“Working near power lines can be very dangerous. To prevent incidents like this it’s vital that all agricultural workers are aware of any nearby power lines and know the maximum height and reach of the vehicle they are operating.
“If a vehicle makes contact with a power line, the advice is to stay in the cab and try to drive clear. In an emergency call 105, or if there’s a fire dial 999.”
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is raising awareness of the dangers during the harvest season, claiming crews are called to numerous agricultural incidents each year around this time.
Fires can have a devastating impact on rural communities, livestock and crops.
Ben added: “Farm fires threaten lives and livelihoods in rural communities, but they can be prevented by storing combustible materials like hay and straw safely and ensuring farm vehicles and machinery are well maintained.
“We also recommend installing firebreaks between crops to help slow the progress of a fire and having a secure water supply, such as a vacuum tanker, on hand during harvest”.
“It’s important to have an emergency plan in place and ensure everyone on the farm knows what to do in the event of a fire. Farmers can assist our crews in an emergency by making them aware of hazards on their land, keeping access routes in, out and around the farm clear as well as making note of the locations of nearby hydrants.”
For more information on the campaign, visit WSFRS’s page here.