By Scout Nelson
As ranchers gear up for spring, ensuring a warm welcome for newborn animals becomes a priority, especially in the cold Upper Midwest. The challenge is to keep these vulnerable newcomers warm without inviting danger. Heat lamps, a common solution, come with their own set of risks, particularly the threat of barn fires.
Experts in the field, like Travis Hoffman from North Dakota State University and University of Minnesota, and Angie Johnson, a safety coordinator, emphasize the importance of supplemental heat for preventing hypothermia in newborns such as lambs, kids, and calves. They caution against the careless use of heat lamps due to the increased risk of fire, especially over straw bedding.
To reduce these risks, they recommend several safety measures for ranchers opting to use heat lamps:
- Always secure heat lamps with non-flammable hangers, preferably chains with locking connectors, to prevent any contact with straw.
- Choose high-quality, durable heat lamps and bulbs designed to minimize the chance of breakage and fire if knocked down.
- Keep the lamp and area clean from dust, cobwebs, and debris to reduce fire hazards.
- Conduct regular inspections for any signs of wear or damage, such as exposed wiring or loose sockets.
- Directly connect heat lamps to outlets equipped with ground fault and arc fault circuit interrupters to prevent electrical fires. Avoid using extension cords.
- Place fire extinguishers at each barn entrance and regularly check them for readiness.
Considering a barn temperature or fire monitoring system can also offer additional safety layers, ensuring immediate alert to any temperature spikes or potential fire outbreaks.
Heat lamps are effective in combating cold for newborn livestock, but their use requires strict safety practices. Ranchers can ensure a warm, secure environment by following these guidelines, protecting against hypothermia and fire threats.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-ppampicture
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock