What to do in the snow: farmers
Check on your animals and ensure that drifted snow, ice or other obstacles haven’t blocked their access to food and water.
Move stock to sheltered areas. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, like sheds.
Ensure driveways and tracks are clear for service vehicles.
Have a water supply available. Most animal deaths in winter storms are caused by dehydration.
Make sure your livestock are secured if there is no power to your electric fences.
Working in the snow
Cold weather can put strain on your body, even without exercise. Be careful when shovelling snow, pushing a car, or performing other tasks. Regardless of your age or physical condition, avoid over-exertion in the winter.
- Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
- Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
- Wear a hat.
- Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
If your property has been damaged, ring your insurer as soon as possible. In almost all cases the insurance company will send an insurance assessor to look at your property. They will confirm what repairs and replacements are needed and covered by your policy.
Ask the insurance company:
- How long it will be before an insurance assessor visits.
- If you are to clean your property or if they will get a company to do it for you.
- Always keep your own record of property that has been damaged using photographs or video.
- Detail the damage to your property and belongings.
If you are driving and need to stop because of snow:
- Stay in your vehicle. Disorientation occurs quickly in wind-driven snow.
- Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm.
- Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.
- Make yourself visible to rescuers:
- Tie a coloured cloth (preferably red) to your radio aerial or door.
- Raise the vehicle hood indicating trouble after snow stops falling.
