NFU Cymru partnered with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) over the Royal Welsh Winter Fair to encourage farmers throughout Wales to utilise the free services of a farm liaison officer.

The free officer visit not only supplies and fits free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in farm dwellings, but it also helps capture valuable information about the farm’s location and water supply, in the event of a fire.

Other services provided by the farm liaison officer include controlled burning advice and guidance and free bale temperature checks. There are also a number of MAWWFRS crews that are trained in and equipped to deal with large animal and livestock rescue.

NFU Cymru county adviser for Brecon and Radnor, Stella Owen said: “I would urge every farmer in the area to contact MAWWFRS to request a free farm liaison officer visit. Not only will it help safeguard your home, but it can also help to safeguard your farm and buildings should a fire break out.

“During the visit, the fire service will speak to you about fire prevention measures and will also collect information such as the what3words location of the farm, identify the quickest access routes if emergency services are needed, the nearest water sources, as well as identify risks such as heat lamps used during lambing.”

Jeremy Turner, MAWWFRS farm liaison officer said: “Coming from a farming background I cannot emphasise how important it is that we take time to consider ways to protect ourselves from the risk of fire occurring in the first instance.

“I strongly recommend that members of the farming community take advantage of the free farm liaison officer services that are available from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“This can be done either by emailing [email protected] or by getting in touch via phone on 0800 1691234.”