On Tuesday, September 30th, 2025, a scary scene unfolded in a bean crop field at approximately 12:02 p.m. A combine and bean crop field erupted in flames in Clinton, Illinois, resulting in one injury and widespread power outages.
Clinton firefighters rushed to the scene in the area of Reagan Road and Illinois Route 54 to battle the flames. Upon arrival, they found a field and a combine fully engulfed underneath power lines.
Because of the proximity to live wires, the power company was brought in to de-energize the lines as a safety precaution. In the aftermath, one person sustained injuries as a result of the fire and has since been released from the hospital, while 180 residents were left without electricity.
The Wapella and Maroa Fire Departments assisted Clinton firefighters, along with support from the Sheriff’s Department and DeWitt Ambulance. Fortunately, the quick response of firefighters, emergency personnel, and the power company likely prevented further damage and injuries.
Harvest Season and Fire Hazards: Safety Concerns for Illinois Farmers
This recent combine fire in Clinton serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with farming operations. It highlights the importance of vigilance, regular machinery maintenance, and proper safety training to protect both farm workers and local communities.
Agriculture consistently ranks among the most hazardous industries in the United States, and harvest season amplifies the risks. With fall harvest season in full swing in Illinois, countless hours will be spent operating large farming equipment, including combines, tractors, augers, and trucks in open fields. Heavy and dangerous agricultural machinery is a common cause of serious farming injuries and fatalities.
Combines are essential for modern farming, but they come with their own set of risks and hazards. The process of harvesting crops generates heat, and the presence of dry vegetation increases the risk of fires. Mechanical failures, such as overheating engines or malfunctioning exhaust systems, can ignite nearby dry material, leading to rapidly spreading fires.
Regularly revisiting safety precautions and considerations with all workers helps to reinforce the importance of safety on the farm and lowers the risk of a serious injury occurring.
At Spiros Law, we care deeply about our Illinois farmers and agricultural workers, as they are essential to our economy. We understand that when a farming injury occurs, your livelihood is at risk. If you have suffered serious injuries, contact a personal injury attorney at Spiros Law today.
Key Strategies for Preventing Combine Fires
To mitigate risks associated with fires and combine operations, farm workers should implement several safety measures, including:
- Keep farming equipment clean: Maintain your combine by regularly cleaning it, especially around the engine and exhaust. Use a battery-powered leaf blower or an air compressor for easy debris removal, or a power washer for a deep clean.
- Monitor engine temperature: Engines can overheat. Excessive stress on engines can increase the risk of fire. Newer engines generate higher temperatures due to emissions standards, but most modern farming equipment comes with advanced sensor technology. Monitor the heat generated around key engine components to ensure they remain within their operating temperature ranges.
- Check for overheating bearings: Keep a close eye on bearing temperatures by using an infrared thermometer. If you notice temperatures climbing beyond safe levels, shut down the machine to prevent any potential issues.
- Avoid harvesting during peak heat: Be more cautious between the hottest parts of the day – 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. – when fire weather conditions are often the most hazardous.
- Assess the temperature before leaving equipment unattended: Give the combines time to cool down before parking them in a shed. When parking in a field, opt for fire-resistant surfaces and consider creating firebreaks around parked equipment.
Spiros Law Firm: Advocating for Agricultural Workers in Illinois
As harvest season continues, it’s vital to remind our communities that farmers across Illinois are back in the fields working long hours to bring in their crops. With more large equipment on the move, drivers need to use extra caution on rural roads. Slow-moving tractors and combines are common on the roads this time of year, so a little patience goes a long way in keeping everyone safe.
Our legal team is dedicated to protecting the rights of farm and agricultural workers. Our team is here to assist clients in navigating workers’ compensation claims and pursuing justice for serious injuries caused by negligence. We have several locations to support our local farmers and agricultural workers who are injured on the job, with offices conveniently located in Kankakee, Champaign, and Danville, IL. If you need legal guidance for your farming injury, reach out to Spiros Law today.
