One frequent cause of barn fires in the winter months occurs when someone attempts to thaw frozen water pipes. The American Red Cross has information about preventing frozen pipes in the first place, and tips on thawing those pipes if they do freeze. The fact sheet is directed to homes, but the information definitely applies to barns also. Take a few minutes to read the American Red Cross Fact Sheet: Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes before you take your tools to the barn.