Media Release

FREEPHONE 0800 327 646 I WEBSITE WWW.FEDFARM.ORG.NZ 

9 October 2013

Starlings are back & so are tractor fires

Federated Farmers is reminding farmers to check their tractors for starling nests to avoid tractor fires this summer.

“Starlings like to build their nests in dry areas and their favourite spot is in tractor engines, being nesting season now is a good time to be vigilant with preventative measures” says Anders Crofoot, Federated Farmers Rural Fire Spokesperson.

“This is a safety issue as well as costly to farmers and it can be avoided by simply popping your hood to check for nests before starting the engine, and keeping a fire extinguisher on board.

“FMG have been running their ‘Stop and Pop’ campaign which, over the last three years, has helped reduce their tractor fire claims by 40 percent saving farmers time and money.

“Farmers owners also need to make sure their staff are aware of the risks and preventative methods also; it only takes a starling 18 minutes to build a nest so it pays to check each time you use the vehicle,” concluded Mr Crofoot.

ENDS

© Scoop Media

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