Barn fire in Canada highlights the importance of hydrant access and pet preparedness

photo courtesy of BBC Earlier this week, CBC reported over 40 racehorses perished in a fire that consumed a stable in Ontario, Canada reminding us how extreme weather can significantly hamper fire response and lead to catastrophic results. Although dozens of firefighters labored to extinguish the flames, temperatures in the single digits froze water lines, hindering the fire service’s efforts. Additionally, a lack of fire hydrants close by meant firefighters had to truck water in from surrounding areas. The result was that every horse inside the stable perished. Along with debilitating factors like cold weather and insufficient hydrant placement, addressing...