Donegal minister, Charlie McConalogue, has urged farmers to prioritise safety during the current cold spell of weather.
“I am asking all farmers, fishers and everyone in rural areas to be extra careful during the current cold spell of weather,” he said.
“While farmers always make every effort to look after livestock during poor weather, they must prioritise their own safety and the safety of those working and living in rural communities.”
Livestock are resilient during cold weather once they have access to adequate feed and shelter. It is important that farmers have measures in place to ensure outwintered and housed livestock have access to fresh water during freezing conditions.
Supplies of drinking water should be checked daily, and surface ice broken on troughs twice per day. It is important that taps are not left running to prevent freezing. Where needed, farmers should check that reserve storage tanks are full of fresh water. Herding out-wintered livestock should be carried out during daylight hours.
Minister Charlie McConalogue
“By planning ahead, the workload can be managed to minimise stress and the risks to safety. It is important that farmers ensure that they have adequate stocks of feed and supplies to avoid any shortages during poor conditions,” Minister McConalogue added.
Trips and falls are common incidents during freezing conditions but can be minimised and ideally avoided, by keeping yards tidy and maintaining taps, pipes and drainpipes to avoid icy patches as a result of drips. Salt for gritting will help minimise slippery conditions around the farmyard.
Farmers should avoid working at height during frosty weather. Roof repairs should only be carried out when weather conditions are suitable and using the appropriate equipment.
Everyone in rural communities is urged to check on elderly neighbours and those living alone. Christmas and the New Year can be particularly lonely for some people, and it is important to keep in regular contact with neighbours over the winter.
For animal welfare issues connected with severe weather, farmers are advised to keep in touch with their agricultural advisor or contact the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Animal Welfare Helpline on phone: 01 607 2379
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