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Oct. 8, 2023Des Moines, Iowa |  By: Jeremy Werner

Iowa farmers and others warned about drought fire dangers

fire

DES MOINES, Iowa - After a long year of extended drought conditions, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is reminding farmers and others near where crops are dry to stay safe.

Making sure your farm is "firewise" can save lives, as well as money. The DNR says making sure you're following proper safety procedures can get as simple as a few habitual changes.

Officials say you should properly check machinery to reduce the chances of field fires from overheated bearings.

You should also handle hay properly as improper storage is one of the most common causes of barn fires, make sure to store bales away from combustibles or open flames like burn barrels.

Above all, in the event of a fire or other emergency, do not panic. Call 911 and if time allows evacuate people and livestock to a safe area. Do not take risks in the event of a fire.