Every horse barn owner's worst nightmare is for a fire to break out in their barn. Hay, wood, shavings, grain dust, and cob webs are all fuels that could easily cause a fire in a barn to gain uncontrollable speed. Fortunately, fires can be minimized with fire suppression systems. If you own a horse barn and would like to protect your horses and your investment, here are several things to consider when planning a fire suppression system.
Dry Sprinkler System
A dry sprinkler system uses water. It's called a dry system because water doesn't reach the pipes until it is needed to suppress a fire. Until then, compressed air is used to put pressure on the water to hold it back at the water source. That way, the pipes are not susceptible to freezing temperatures, which could result in costly repairs should the pipes burst.
Heat Detectors
Heat detectors should be installed in various locations of the barn. When extreme heat is detected, the fire suppression system turns off the compressed air so the water is released into the pipes and the fire can be suppressed until the local fire department arrives to help. While smoke detectors may also help, the dusty atmosphere inside a horse barn can lead to false alarms.
Backup Generator
The air compressor that is used to control the water and the heat detectors that are used to determine when it's time to release the water are controlled by electricity. If the power goes out, the water will get released into the pipes and the heat monitors will not work. Because of these issues, it is crucial to install a backup generator to take over when there is a power outage.
Fire Alarm Monitor
Additionally, install a fire alarm monitor to directly alert the local fire department in the event of a fire. This is particularly important if your horse barn is not manned 24/7 or is located a distance away from your residence or on a separate property.
Exterior Doors in Each Stall
If you regularly keep your horses in stalls in the barn, it's a good idea to install an exterior door in every stall. That way, should a fire break out, the exterior doors can be opened so the horses can escape. This is important so you and other rescuers don't have to run into the barn and get exposed to smoke and carbon monoxide. This can be done manually or automatically with a lock release system connected to the fire suppression system.
For more information on fire suppression systems, contact Universal Fire Equipment!
