Ontario Agriculture Minister Jeff Leal is encouraging farmers to consult with their local fire department on fire prevention methods and safety if they have any concerns.
Leal's comments follow several recent major barn fires in the province.
OMAFRA has a list of best management practices the ministry suggests farmers follow to reduce the risk of barn fires.
The list includes having a qualified professional complete assessments of all farm buildings and having electrical equipment inspected yearly by a licensed electrical contractor.
The ministry also recommends keeping a fire extinguisher on hand and making sure a reliable source of water available and easily accessible by fire departments.
Ontario Fire Marshall Ross Nichols says tragic incidents like the recent barn fires underscore the need for owners and operators to identify, and eliminate, potential risks on agricultural properties.
