Evacuation Information for Horses

Information for safely evacuating your equine friend(s) from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

Preparing horses for a wildfire evacuation requires an extra level of planning, preparedness and practice. Building an evacuation kit for each horse, just like you have for your house pets, and having a plan for them that has been practiced, increases the potential your horse(s) will be able to leave when you do. If the wildfire’s proximity does not permit the time needed to load horses, it is best to turn them loose and not leave them confined in a barn or pasture, make sure to remove their halter prior to releasing them. Close the doors and gates so they can’t re-enter the area once they are out.

Evacuation Preparedness –

Practicing your evacuation route using your horse trailer ensures it is compatible with the road’s width and grade on each potential exit route from your home. A stuck trailer could prevent others from using the same path to safely evacuate. It is important to know any limitations before leaving your property during a wildfire. Always take into consideration that large animals take extra time to evacuate. If you do not have trailer space for all your horses, have a plan that includes neighbors, friends or relatives that have trailers and can help; or identify an animal emergency response team, or for hire service that will assist with short notice.

Trailers:

• Make sure your vehicle is set up to tow the horse trailer.
• Make sure your trailer is in road-worthy condition.
• Practice loading your horse in the trailer prior to an evacuation.

If you are unable to evacuate with your horse(s), but have time, using one of the methods below may help animal rescuers reunite you quicker with the horse(s):

• Use a livestock crayon to write your name, phone number and address on the horse(s).
• Braid a temporary ID tag with pre-written contact info into the horse’s mane.
• Attach a leg band with your phone number pre-printed on it to the lower part of their leg, above the hoof.

Just as humans prepare, it is important to have horses ready year-round for a potential wildfire evacuation.

The author of this content cannot be liable for any use or misuse of the contents. This is a guideline and is meant for information only.

Important information for older adults about fire safety from the U.S. Fire Administration:

People ages 65 and over have an increased risk of dying in a fire. Having physical or mental impairments, using chemical substances such as medicines and alcohol, and living with smokers or in substandard housing are some of the risk factors that make older adults more vulnerable to fire injury and death.

• Know two ways out of every room. Practice using both ways.
• Remove any items that may block your way out of the room or your home.
• Discuss your fire escape plan with family and neighbors. Contact your building manager or fire department to discuss your plan if you need extra help escaping.
• Keep eyeglasses, keys, hearing aids and a phone within reach next to your bed.
• Practice your home fire escape drill twice a year.

The author of this content cannot be liable for any use or misuse of the contents. This is a guideline and is meant for information only.