Livestock owners advised to review measures to secure animals this hurricane season

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GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Office of Disaster Management is urging livestock owners to review their plans now of how they will secure their livestock in the event of a hurricane strike.

Livestock owners should make sure that their animal holding areas and other infrastructure are able to sustain a hurricane strike.  Any loose material that is currently not in use should be securely fastened in order to avoid damage to property and endangering human lives during the passing of a hurricane.

The following tips should be taken into consideration: Don’t keep your cattle in a barn or stable structure.  This is to prevent injury from flying debris.  If the barn/stable 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.

If you have chicken cages, these should be reinforced.  Medical supplies and a first aid kit should be kept on hand.

Store drinking water for a number of days.  Also have an adequate supply of feed.