Farm Fire Fighting Equipment: Safer Farms, Safer Crews
Picture this: It’s a scorching afternoon and the wind picks up, carrying the smell of smoke across your paddocks. You’re not alone—your neighbours are scanning the horizon, ready to defend what matters. Whether you live on a sprawling property or help out on the fireground, understanding farm fire fighting equipment is key. For those with a fire unit on the ute, and for every family member or crew on the ground, the right gear (and knowing how to use it) is what stands between safety and disaster.
In this practical guide, we’ll break down what farm fire fighting equipment is, how to get it ready, what to do when fire strikes, and the simple steps that could save lives—yours, your neighbours’, or your crew’s. We’ll share common mistakes, lived experience, and the lessons every Australian (from city renter to outback farmer) can learn. For volunteers, we’ll highlight tips that make everyone safer on the fireground.
And if you’re setting up your own farm fire unit, it’s worth considering the reliability of something like the
Cromtech Fire Fighting 1.5″ Diesel Water Pump with Twin Impeller, 5.3hp
—because in a real emergency, you need gear you can trust.
• How to get your farm fire unit ready and keep it running
• Real-world advice for families, renters, and fire crews
• Common mistakes to avoid—and simple steps that save time
• Recovery tips, planning checklists, and practical FAQs
How to Prepare: Getting Your Farm Fire Fighting Equipment Ready
If you’re on a farm, it’s likely you’ve already seen (or own) a slip-on fire unit—usually a water tank, pump, and hose on the back of a ute or trailer. These can be lifesavers, but only if they’re ready to go. You don’t need the world’s fanciest rig, but you do need it to work every time.
• Check your water tank is clean and full—always top it up after use.
• Test your pump and hoses before summer. Run water through every line.
• Keep spare fuel (in a safe, well-ventilated spot, never inside the cabin).
• Inspect hose reels, nozzles, and couplings for splits or leaks.
• Store essential gear: gloves, masks, sturdy boots, goggles, radio, torch, basic first aid, and a woollen blanket (for burns).
• Train everyone on your property in how to start and use the unit. Don’t leave it for the day a fire appears.
Most people forget to check the simple things—like whether the tank has enough water, or if the battery for the pump is charged. A dry tank on a bad day is a heart-stopper. It pays to run a mock drill with your family or crew before fire season starts.
On the Day: How to Use Your Farm Fire Unit in a Real Emergency
When fire threatens, the first priority is always people—not property. If the situation feels unsafe, leave early. But when the time comes to defend, every minute counts. Here’s what works:
On the Fireground: Step-by-Step
- Park your fire unit facing outwards, with clear escape access.
- Wear cotton or wool, cover up (no shorts or synthetics).
- Assign a lookout—someone who can keep watch and call for help if things turn bad.
- Start your pump before the fire arrives—don’t wait until you’re surrounded by smoke.
- Use water sparingly; focus on spot fires, fence lines, and windward edges.
- Never fight fire alone. Work as a team, stay in contact by radio or phone.
Most farm units aren’t built for extreme firestorms, but they’re vital for mopping up after a fire front has passed. Many volunteers and neighbours have shared stories of stopping a paddock blaze with a quick-thinking crew and a half-full tank—because they trained together, and checked the gear the week before.
Fire Safety Tips for Every Farm, Home, and Crew
- Stay up to date with local alerts—don’t rely on one app or radio.
- Plan your escape early. Know two ways out, and practice with the family.
- Label fuel and water containers clearly to avoid mix-ups in the rush.
- Store your fire gear in one spot, ready to grab and go.
- Never block driveways or gates with vehicles or gear—clear access saves time in an emergency.
- If you’ve borrowed or built your unit, make sure everyone who might use it knows how it works.
- Always have a charged phone, radio, and power bank in your kit.
These habits help whether you’re defending a farmhouse, helping a neighbour, or volunteering as a support crew. Even a few minutes saved by being organised can make a world of difference.
Common Mistakes with Farm Fire Units (and How to Avoid Them)
From the Fireground:
- Running out of fuel or water mid-fire—top up before the day heats up.
- Not checking hoses or pump seals until smoke is already in the air.
- Assuming someone else knows how to operate the pump.
- Storing gear too far from the vehicle, wasting precious seconds.
- Not leaving enough time for an early escape if things escalate.
After years of helping crews prepare, the main thing I’ve learned is that overconfidence is dangerous. Double-check everything, ask questions, and practice with your team. And if in doubt—don’t wait. Move early.
After the Fire: Recovery, Maintenance, and Planning for Next Time
The aftermath of a fire is a strange mix of relief, exhaustion, and worry about what comes next. As soon as it’s safe, check your fire unit for damage—hoses, pump, and tank. Clean everything thoroughly and note down what needs fixing or replacing. Store your gear in a dry, secure spot.
• Dry out hoses to prevent mould
• Refill the tank with clean water
• Replace or repair worn parts before you forget
• Make a log of what worked, and what didn’t—improve your plan for next time
Many farmers I’ve met keep a simple notebook for every fire season, jotting down “what went wrong” and “what saved us.” Those small details add up to better outcomes year after year.
Explore our guides to essential fire safety insights and
bushfire evacuation planning.
FAQs: Farm Fire Fighting Equipment and Safety
Do I need a fire unit if I have a dam or tank on my property?
Yes—water access is crucial, but a purpose-built fire unit means you can move fast, reach distant spots, and help your neighbours or local crews. It’s not just about having water, but getting it where you need it—quickly and safely.
How often should I check or service my fire fighting unit?
At a minimum, test everything before and during fire season—especially the pump, hoses, and fuel. Give it a run every month or after any big job. Quick spot checks after windy days or maintenance works are always worth it.
Can I use my farm fire unit to protect someone else’s property?
Absolutely—but always check it’s safe, have permission, and let your local emergency service know. Helping each other is vital in the bush, but your safety comes first. Never put yourself or your crew at risk.
Is it safe for volunteers to use private farm fire units during major fires?
It can be, but coordination is key. If you’re a volunteer or support crew, always check in with incident controllers. Use only well-maintained, properly set up units, and never take unnecessary risks. Communication saves lives.
What’s the most important thing to do after a fire?
Once safe, check your gear for damage, clean up, and talk about what went well (and what didn’t). Review your plan with your family or crew, and get ready for the next time. Recovery is about learning, not just fixing.
I live in town, not on a farm—should I worry about fire fighting equipment?
Good question! Fires can start anywhere—homes, sheds, paddocks, bush. Even in town, it’s smart to have a basic plan and a kit ready. The principles here—readiness, teamwork, and safe gear—apply to everyone.
Ready to make your place safer?
Take five minutes today to check your fire gear, talk it over with your family or team, and update your emergency plan. Share this guide with neighbours, your brigade, or your local group—it could make all the difference next time the siren sounds.
