When I think about natural disasters, one of my top concerns is the safety of my livestock. These events can hit unexpectedly, and without a solid plan, animals are at real risk. In the years I’ve spent homesteading, I’ve come to realize that being prepared is everything.
It’s not just about stocking up on supplies—it’s about having systems in place to keep my animals safe and comfortable, no matter what kind of disaster rolls through. Whether it’s a flood, wildfire, hurricane, or extreme cold, being proactive can make all the difference. The more I’ve learned, the better equipped I feel to protect the animals that depend on me. Here are 12 things I’ve found to be absolutely essential for keeping livestock safe when disaster strikes.
1. Have an Emergency Plan
One of the first things I did was put together an emergency plan for my animals. Everyone on the farm knows the plan—where to go, how to transport animals, and who to call if things get bad. Having this in place brings a lot of peace of mind.
2. Create a Safe Shelter
Making sure the barns and coops are solid and ready for severe weather is key. I’ve reinforced areas where my animals shelter and made sure they’re away from flood-prone spots. It’s all about having a secure place for them when things get rough.
3. Stockpile Food and Water
I always keep a week’s worth of feed and water stored safely. Natural disasters can make access to supplies difficult, so having enough on hand helps me focus on other urgent tasks when a storm hits.
4. Keep Identification on All Livestock
If my animals were to get loose, I want to be able to identify them quickly. I make sure each animal is tagged, and I keep up-to-date photos just in case I need to prove ownership or track them down after a disaster.
5. Prepare for Evacuations
In situations where evacuation is the only option, I’ve learned to make sure my trailers are in good working order and that the animals are familiar with being loaded. Having a smooth process is crucial when every minute counts.
6. Flood-Proof Your Property
Living in a flood-prone area has taught me to be proactive. I’ve built up areas where my animals are housed and made sure to move them early if there’s any risk of flooding. Elevating barns and installing pumps can make a world of difference.
7. Create Firebreaks in Wildfire Areas
For anyone in wildfire zones, clearing vegetation around the property is a must. I’ve learned that having firebreaks can buy me precious time if a fire threatens the homestead.
8. Prepare for Power Outages
With electric fences and waterers, power outages can become a big issue. I’ve set up a backup generator that I regularly maintain, so my animals stay safe and hydrated even when the power’s out.
9. Move Livestock Indoors During Blizzards or Extreme Cold
When blizzards hit, I move my animals into insulated shelters and give them plenty of bedding. This keeps them warm and helps prevent water from freezing, which can be a major problem in freezing conditions.
10. Remove Debris and Hazardous Materials
I’ve found that one of the simplest things I can do before a storm is clear any loose debris that could become dangerous in high winds or earthquakes. Securing fencing and removing hazards prevents injuries.
11. Set Up a Buddy System with Neighbors
I can’t always be around during a disaster, so having a nearby farmer or neighbor on call to check on my animals has been a lifesaver. We’ve set up a system to watch out for each other’s livestock in emergencies.
12. Have a First Aid Kit for Livestock
Injuries happen, and having a well-stocked first aid kit for my animals is a must. I keep bandages, antiseptics, and other basic medical supplies handy and make sure I know how to handle common injuries. It’s better to be prepared than caught off guard.
