After the rash of barn fires in Ontario at the beginning of 2016, Equine Guelph and its partners were quick to respond, bringing educational material regarding fire prevention to the horse industry.

During the summer of 2016 a pilot program will be introduced for horse farms involved in the racing industry; including thoroughbred, standardbred and quarterhorse racing, whether racing, training or breeding. A limited number of visits will be scheduled for farms interested in having a fire prevention professional walk through their facility, providing a valuable assessment and recommendations to maximize safety.

So many members of the racing industry were devastated by the tragic fires earlier this year bringing a focus on fire safety and prevention to the forefront of industry interest. Equine Guelph is pleased to be able to offer this valuable, one-time, learning opportunity to the racing industry of Ontario.

"It is our belief that an investment in fire prevention and safety education/training will help protect people, horses and facilities," says Gayle Ecker, Director of Equine Guelph. "Prevention is key and this is a special opportunity to become more aware of the steps we can take to reduce the risk. Our horses are depending on us to protect them."

For more information on fire safety and prevention visit Equine Guelph's website. Farms interested in scheduling an assessment, please contact Dr. Susan Raymond, Equine Guelph [email protected] or call 519-824-4120 ext 54230

(with files from Equine Guelph)