Plan Ahead to Protect Your Farm from Weather

When protecting your farm from sever weather, there are several things you must consider: your family members, employees, buildings, equipment, livestock and crops. Planning ahead can help minimize the impact of uncontrollable weather situations. There are all types of weather events that you need to be prepared for as a farmer. Use this checklist to help you get prepared. 

Gather Critical Information

Start by reviewing your farm insurance policy and make sure that you have the proper coverage. Reach out to your Farm Bureau agent to see where you may need to fill coverage gaps. You’ll also want to make sure you gather a list of emergency numbers to have on hand in case you need help. 

• Local emergency management
• Veterinarian
• Insurance agent

In addition to your emergency number list, you’ll want to have a map of your farm that includes all the buildings and structures. Note where fuel tanks, chemical storage, utility shutoffs and livestock locations are for first responders. 

The last piece of information you’ll want on hand is your farm inventory. How much livestock do you have? Note the species and number of animals. Include crops (acres and types), equipment and machinery (make and model of each). 

Build an Emergency Supply Kit 

An emergency supply kit should include basic survival supplies plus heavy-duty tools to protect you and your family from severe storms. Here are a few key starter things to include in your kit: 

• Water and dehydrated food
• Emergency communication device
• Tools and repair gear
• Safety gear
• Flashlight 

While having these supplies is essential in any emergency. You’ll also want to begin collecting larger materials to protect your buildings, structures and livestock too.  

Stockpile Supplies 

In a severe weather event, your resources might be unexpectantly cut off from you. In this case, you’ll want to have materials such as sandbags incase of flooding, lumber to reinforce or protect windows, rope and wire to secure objects, Fuel and a gas generator, as well as a safe supply of food to feed your livestock. 

Keeping Your Farm Running After a Weather Event 

Knowing how to safely assess and maintain your farm after a storm is just as critical as preparing for it. Here are four steps to help you get your farm back up and running quickly and safely.

Find Out How What Your Coverage Includes 

Severe weather can strike without warning, putting your operation, property and livelihood at risk. While you can’t prevent the storm, you can prepare for what comes after. The right insurance coverage can help protect your operation and get you back on track when the storm passes.

Talk to your local Farm Bureau agent today about farm insurance options designed to help safeguard your livelihood against severe weather.