Earlier this week, the Kalona Fire Department extinguished a combine on fire. No injuries were reported.

Last year, Henry County reported over a dozen field fires in October due to dry conditions. It is important to remember with dry conditions, the risk of machinery fires increases. 

The Iowa State Extension Office offers some prevention steps and safety steps during increased fire risk during harvest. Keep machinery clean of caked-on oil, grease, and crop residue. Stay on top of maintenance by checking air filters, coolant, and oil levels. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and be sure to check them throughout the year. 

In case of a fire, turn off engines, get away from the machinery, and call 911. Those working in dry fields should keep a list of 911 addresses relevant to their field locations. This will assist emergency crews in locating the fire more quickly.