Livestock owners must secure
animals this hurricane season
PHILIPSBURG--The office of Disaster Management and Preparedness is urging livestock owners to review now their plans for securing their livestock in the event of a hurricane strike.
It is in keeping with the office’s theme for the hurricane season, June 1 through November 30: “Prepare Early: Better Safe than Sorry.” Hurricane forecasters have warned that the 2006 hurricane season will be a very active one.
The release recommended that livestock owners make sure their animal holding areas and other infrastructure are in proper condition. It also warned that loose material could damage property and endanger human lives during the passing of a hurricane.
The disaster management team and Animals R Friends have joined forces to issue suggestions to livestock owners stating, “All cattle should have identification. Identification can be an ear tag, ear notches, neck chain or microchip. Paperwork should also be in order that shows ownership.
“Don’t keep your cattle in a barn or stable to prevent injury from flying debris. If the barn collapses, cattle have no chance to save themselves. Relocate livestock to a predetermined safe area and ensure that they have access to hay, pasture, clean water and a safe area or high ground above flood levels,” the release stated.
If you have chicken cages they should be reinforced and all medical supplies and a first aid kit should be kept on hand. Residents are encouraged to store drinking water for a number of days.
The names of the storms for this season are Beryl, Chris, Debby, Ernesto, Florence, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, Joyce, Kirk, Leslie, Michael, Nadine, Oscar, Patty, Rafael, Sandy, Tony, Valerie and William.
For further information regarding pet and animal safety during times of disaster, you can call Animals R Friends, tel. 557-5799, 556-1191 and 556-3688.
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