Keeping You, Your Crops, and Your Livestock Safe During a Typhoon: A Few Reminders

By Patricia Bianca S. Taculao

Weather forecasts about super typhoon Mangkhut is sending everybody into a state of alert.

The public is keeping their ears open for new information about Mangkhut and other announcements.

Out in the fields and farms, farmers and ranchers are also doing their part to keep their crops, livestock, and, of course, themselves, safe.

But aside from staying updated with the weather forecast and other notices, here are some things farmers can do in the event of a typhoon.

Before:

•         Stock a sufficient amount of food, clean water, and medical supplies.
•         Harvest crops that can already be yielded and store them in a dry, safe place. Also store plants in a dry place with a temperature where they can thrive.
•         Prepare emergency lights and back up batteries.
•         Keep flashlights, candles, and emergency radios nearby.
•         Before the expected landfall, herd the cattle and other livestock into sheltered areas that are high above the ground if the area is prone to flooding.

During:

•         Stay indoors.
•         Close the windows and doors to prevent any debris from entering the building.
•         Avoid wading in floodwaters and other murky areas.
•         Stay updated with the weather announcements.
•         In the event of an evacuation, evacuate calmly, and make sure to bring all the necessities like food, clothes, medicine, etc.
•         If evacuation is necessary, secure the crops and livestock (lock the crop storage room, leave animal feed, etc).

After:

•         Beware of dangerous animals, such as snakes, that may have entered your house.
•         Find out which areas are still flooded before heading out.
•         Check the house for any damage.
•         Make sure that the field isn’t too muddy or watery for planting or grazing.
•         Dry seeds, feed, pots for ornamental plants or other things that may have gotten wet during the downpour.