The Milton Fire-Rescue Department is committed to reducing the risk of devastating barn fires that can result in the loss of people, livestock, equipment, and structures. To do so, Milton Fire-Rescue offers free safety evaluations to the owner of any Milton barn or stable who requests one.

During the evaluation, Fire Inspectors will assess the property and offer expert advice on topics such as:

• General barn safety
• Electrical safety
• Fire escape planning and drills
• Proper storage/use of chemicals, combustibles, and flammables
• Fire extinguishers
• Fire alarm systems
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Automatic detection systems
• Carbon monoxide detection systems

For more information on fire safety in and around barns, check the Barn Safety Checklist on National Fire Protection Association website.

How to request a Barn Safety Evaluation:

To schedule a barn fire safety evaluation and to get recommendations for a pre-fire plan, please call 678-242-2546 or e-mail Fire.Marshal@miltonga.gov.

Evaluations can be scheduled between 9 a.m. to5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Key Safety and Fire Prevention Tips:

Beyond the evaluations, property owners can review this Barn Safety Checklist or this information from the National Fire Protection Association.

Some best safety-first best practices that apply to owners of barns (and, really, any property) include:

• Install easily accessible fire extinguishers, checking them and other firefighting equipment at least once annually to make sure they work well
• Make sure everyone who has access to the barn (just like any other structure) knows what to do in the event of a fire
• Teach your children to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothes catch fire
• Keep flammable materials in secure places away from the barn
• Do not allow smoking and/or use of matches, lighters, and extension cords in barns
• Ensure all electrical outlets, heat lamps, heaters, bulbs, and wiring are in good working condition and are free of dust and spider webs
• Check that hay, straw, wood shavings, and other types of feed and bedding are properly dried and stored
• Run annual fire drills to ensure everyone residing or working in the barn is aware of fire safety and evacuation procedures
• Monitor access and activities of people visiting the barn
• Keep barn entryways clear of all rubbish and roads leading to the barn clear for emergency vehicles

What type of fire-related equipment should barn owners have?

ABC-type fire extinguishers should be near every exit and within 50 feet from any entry point in the barn. Fire alarm systems, fire sprinkler systems, and carbon monoxide detection (when fuel-burning appliances are present) are encouraged, and in some cases, required by fire code.

What materials are considered flammable in the barn?

The most common flammable materials are hay (both dry and newly baled), wood, rags, fuel, gasoline, fertilizers, pesticides/herbicides, certain paints and paint solvents, as well as alcohol-based and animal-care products. 

Are fire hydrants required near barns or stables?

The availability of fire hydrants depends on several factors. Contact Milton Fire at 678-242-2546 or email Fire.Marshal@miltonga.gov to determine what should work for your property.

What I should NOT do in an event of fire?

Don’t try to fight a fire that is already large and spreading, especially if you’ll be blocking your escape route while doing so.

Is the aim of the firefighter evaluators to issue citations?

No! This is a public service, aimed to educate and advise property owners. The purpose is to help people (not issue citations to those who invited firefighters to their property).

How much does the Barn Safety Evaluation cost?

Nothing! Evaluations are free. To submit a request, call 678-242-2546 or email Fire.Marshal@miltonga.gov.