Tractor Fires an alarming Trend in rural sector

Tuesday, 5 October 2004, 4:03 pm
Press Release: Tower

5 october 2004

Tractor Fires an alarming Trend in rural sector

Bird nests in tractor engines a major cause of tractor fires

Auckland, 05 October, 2004 - Leading insurance provider TOWER is urging New Zealand farmers to routinely check tractors for bird nests during the approaching busy farming period and ensure that tractors insured under their farm insurance policies are covered for fire damage.

TOWER is concerned that during the spring and summer months there are a high number of tractor fires that cause considerable property damage.

TOWER Insurance Manager, Neil Page says TOWER's experience shows that many fires are caused by bird nests in tractor engines.

"Tractor fires are a serious safety issue and can cost New Zealand farmers hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage and loss of productivity.

"We strongly recommend tractor owners and users routinely check for a build-up of bird nesting materials, such as grass and twigs. Typically, these are found built up around the tractor's engine compartment."

"As an added precaution we also recommend having an operational fire extinguisher mounted in, or on the tractor, within easy reach."

TOWER provides some of the most comprehensive and flexible farm insurance cover available today, including protection for farm vehicles, such as tractors, up to $2 million liability cover for accidents occurring on farms, and cover for loss of farm income.

Further information on TOWER Farm Insurance and other TOWER products is available by calling 0800 808 808, at TOWER's website www.tower.co.nz , or by visiting a local TOWER Insurance office.

ENDS

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