Farm Disaster/Emergency Kit
By Sandra Matheson, DVM
Being prepared for emergencies and disasters is essential to prevent and minimize loss. Having a Farm Disaster/Emergency Kit is crucial for this purpose.
During a disaster, there may be limited time to prepare or react. Having critical information, tools, and supplies ready will provide more time to protect your animals and farm.
This involves keeping tools that are used regularly on the farm in one area for quick access. Important documents, records, and maps should also be kept in a backpack or lock box for easy retrieval.
Ensure extra fuel is available. Refill your vehicle's tank when it is half full and keep full fuel containers nearby for emergencies or if gas stations are unavailable.
Cell phones may not function properly during emergencies. Handheld radios might be necessary for communication. While small walkie-talkies have limited range, they can still be useful. Ham radios, which require training and a license, offer a longer range and are preferable.
Additionally, have extra feed available and containers for water if sheltering in place or evacuating becomes necessary.
Preparedness is key. Below is a comprehensive list of disaster supplies.
General Items:
Phone numbers/websites/apps
First aid kit for animals and people with medications and wound care
Inventory of animals
Photos if applicable
Animal health information
Important documents – farm, animal, personal, instructions
Addresses of evacuation sites
Camera
Note pads and pens
Waterproof box to store it in
Blankets/space blankets
Portable internet
Tools and Supplies:
Wire and bolt cutters
Fence pliers
Work and non-latex gloves
Boots
Flashlights/batteries
Pitchforks/shovels
Radios – know how to use them
Coveralls/Outerwear
Waterproof paper/pen
Grease marker/Spray paint
Rope, chain, duct tape, twine
Feed ready to go
Bedding
Water tote, hose, portable trough
Generator with extra fuel
Solar generator and panels
Sump pump
Boat
Rain gear
Portable Starlink internet
Chainsaw and spare chains
In the next installment, we will focus on the aftermath of the disaster.