What should farmers consider when evacuating their property?
When a wildfire threatens a farm, there are various aspects that must be considered during an evacuation.
Some of the unique challenges farmers face include what to do with their livestock, equipment, infrastructure, and crops.
While it’s important to get prepared long before an evacuation alert is issued, it’s crucial that property owners begin taking action as soon as their farm is at risk.
What needs to be considered when evacuating livestock?
Upon receiving an evacuation alert, the first thing to decide is if evacuating the animals is necessary.
In some circumstances, relocating livestock can put them more in harm’s way. If the decision is made to keep them on the property, it’s essential that they are left with access to plenty of water and feed as they shelter in place.
If it has been decided to evacuate the animals, it’s important to start arranging transportation immediately because once an evacuation order has been made, it will not be possible to return to the property.
It’s also recommended to relocate dangerous livestock first because it can reduce the risk of injury or harm to humans and other animals, and it’s easier to handle and contain them when they’re separated from others.
To assist farmers with livestock relocation, the Government of BC has developed an emergency management factsheet.
What should farmers do with their equipment?
It’s common for farms to have various pieces of equipment, and ensuring they’re stored in a safe and non-combustible location is essential to the farm’s protection.
Additionally, safely storing equipment and supplies can reduce any delays and increase recovery time of farming operations once the evacuation order has been rescinded.
During a wildfire emergency, it’s possible that electricity and natural gas may be cut-off and water may be contaminated, so preparing the property to continue operations without these resources is also crucial for farm recovery.
While there’s not much a property owner can do about their crops once an evacuation order has been issued, implementing wildfire mitigation strategies ahead of time can significantly reduce the risk of ignition.
How should farmers get prepared for a wildfire?
Anyone who owns a farm in the Thompson-Okanagan should be preparing their property as wildfires continue to increase in size and number throughout the region.
If you’re looking for assistance with creating a property protection plan or emergency response plan, we encourage you to contact SparkProof.
Their professionals use FireSmart principles to develop a prescription to reduce ignition risk from flying embers, as well as assist with assembling a list of crucial numbers for insurers, emergency organizations, maps with evacuation routes, and places to seek shelter.