Farm fire insurance claims cost the south west £4.6m last year with the most common cause being electrical faults, which were responsible for almost half. Arson was the next most common cause.

The figures in the region were down £5.4m from 2015 and rural insurer NFU Mutual urges farmers to continue to check their fire prevention and evacuation procedures.

"Fire remains one of the greatest hazards to the lives of farmers and with claims peaking in February and December, it’s important to be alert to the risks and have plans prepared and shared with family members and staff,” said Tim Price, NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist.

“The scale of these claims shows how important it is to take all possible steps to prevent fires breaking out, and to have clear plans to evacuate people and livestock safely in the event of a fire. Also, it’s vital to make sure you have the right sort of fire extinguishers maintained in good order so you can fight small fires safely.”

NFU Mutual has developed a Farm Fire checklist:

Fire Prevention:

• Ensure there are sufficient fire extinguishers for the size of buildings and that materials stored are inspected and regularly maintained

• Ensure staff and adult family members know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them

• Reduce the risk of arson by fencing-off straw stacks and farm buildings

• Store hay and straw at least 10m from other buildings

• Put in place an evacuation plan for staff and livestock

• Store petrol, diesel and other fuels in secure areas

• Schedule regular electrical safety checks

• Invite your local fire and rescue service to visit to check water supplies and access routes

If a fire breaks out:

• Call the Fire and Rescue Service without delay

• If possible, send someone to the farm entrance to direct the Fire and Rescue Service to the fire to help save time

• Prepare to evacuate livestock should the fire spread

• Prepare to use your farm machinery to assist the Fire and Rescue Service