Evacuating Wildfires with Horses
As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense, preparing your horses for potential evacuation is becoming a crucial part of responsible horse ownership. Wildfires can spread rapidly, leaving little time to gather belongings and safely transport your animals. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your horses for wildfire evacuation:
1. Create a Detailed Evacuation Plan
Identification: Ensure each horse has a visible and updated identification tag braided into their mane. Getting your horse microchipped will also provide a permanent method of identification that won’t fall off over time.
Evacuation Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes and ensure they are accessible for horse trailers. Plan for both primary and alternative routes.
Destination: Research safe locations for evacuation, such as equine shelters, fairgrounds, or farms outside the affected area. Ensure they can accommodate horses.
Contact Information: Keep a list of contacts, including veterinarians, local authorities, and fellow horse owners who can assist during evacuation.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Medical Supplies: Include basic first aid supplies such as bandages, antiseptic solution, and any medications your horses may need.
Food and Water: Pack enough hay and feed for several days, as well as a sufficient supply of water. Collapsible water containers are handy for transporting water.
Important Documents: Keep copies of your horses' health records, Coggins test results, and proof of ownership in waterproof containers.
3. Practice Loading and Unloading
Training: Ensure your horses are comfortable loading into trailers and standing calmly during transport. Practice loading drills regularly. The most important step in this process is to practice trailering before an evacuation is in order. Evacuations are stressful, and setting up training sessions to get you and your horse comfortable loading on a trailer should happen before an emergency is taking place.
Trailering Safety: Check your trailer for any needed repairs or maintenance. Have an experienced handler assist if your horse is nervous or inexperienced.
Trailer Access: If you do not own a trailer, call around in the community to develop a list of individuals with trailers who would be willing to help out in the event of an emergency.
4. Maintain Fire Safety Around Your Property
Clear Vegetation: Create a defensible space around your property by clearing brush, dead vegetation, and other flammable materials.
Secure Structures: Keep barns, stables, and storage areas clear of clutter and flammable materials. Install fire-resistant roofing if possible.
5. Stay Informed and Prepared
Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay updated on wildfire alerts and weather forecasts. Be prepared to evacuate at short notice if conditions worsen.
Emergency Notifications: Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities.
6. During Evacuation
Stay Calm: Remain calm to reassure your horses. Speak calmly and move slowly during loading and transport.
Safety First: If conditions become unsafe, evacuate early rather than waiting. Your safety and that of your horses should be the top priority.
7. Post-Evacuation Follow-Up
Health Check: After returning home, monitor your horses for any signs of stress, injury, or respiratory issues caused by smoke inhalation.
Property Inspection: Check your property for any damage or hazards that may have arisen during your absence.
Conclusion
Preparing your horses for wildfire evacuation requires foresight, planning, and practice. By having a detailed evacuation plan, assembling an emergency kit, and staying informed about fire conditions, you can significantly increase the safety and well-being of your horses during a wildfire event. Remember, early preparation and proactive measures can make a world of difference in ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your horses.
Stay safe, stay prepared!