BFRS supports NFU farm safety event

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) has supported the National Farmers Union (NFU) at a farm safety event at a farm near Flitwick.

More than 100 Bedfordshire farmers learned potentially life-saving lessons at a farm safety event organised by the NFU. Farmers were given tips and advice on fire prevention and safety, keeping the public and children safe on the farm, working at height, driver and vehicle legislation and basic first aid.  

Andy Martin, BFRS, Arson Reduction Officer who represented BFRS said: “Farm fires can be devastating, resulting in the loss of machinery, livestock, stores of hay and straw, and the destruction of buildings.

“Due to the nature of what happens on farms they are at a high risk of fire because there are often lots of combustible materials stored in or around agricultural buildings. Farms are also often in isolated locations which may have poor water supply. This makes them much more vulnerable to fire getting out of control, especially in summer when hot and dry weather increases the risk of wildfires spreading.

“The NFU event was a great opportunity to share farm fires safety and fire prevention advice with local farmers to ensure that their property and livelihoods are protected.”

NFU Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire Couty Adviser Emily Brown said: “We had a good turnout of farmers and there was a friendly atmosphere with everyone fully engaged and lots of good questions being asked.

“I really want to thank everyone for taking the time to attend and everyone who helped out. 
“Health and safety is so important in farming and it is vital that people take care and don’t take unnecessary risks and shortcuts.

“The feedback has been great and hopefully the members took a lot away from it.”