Hurricane Preparation &
Evacuation Information



Below please find general information regarding how to prepare yourself and your horses for an impending hurricane.



North Florida Emergency Operations Center 386.935.5400



Equine Preparations





While not a comprehensive list, we have highlighted the major things to consider for your horses ahead of a storm making landfall. ​Establish and prepare your Plan A and Plan B early... If evacuating, leave a minimum of 48 hours prior to landfall -- driving a trailer becomes dangerous when winds exceed 40mph.


HOUSING: Check your fencing and secure or throw away loose items. It may be best to leave your horses in pasture. Turn off the power to the barn. If evacuating, have a plan for where you will board your horses.


FEED AND WATER: Store 60 gallons of water/horse in clean trash cans with secured lids, or troughs. Place 3 days supply of feed and hay in waterproof containers, on pallets, or under tarps. The ideal is 7 day supply.


IDENTIFICATION: If riding out the storm, have your animals microchipped. Have your phone number on pet ID or luggage tags braided into the mane. If evacuating, gather Coggins papers, and pictures and obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian.



People Preparations




The most important thing you can do as hurricane season approaches is to get yourself, your family, and your home prepared ahead of time.


Make sure you stock up on the basics for your home: water, food, first aid supplies, spare clothes and bedding, tools and other emergency supplies, and special items (i.e. medications).


Keep the items you would most likely need during an evacuation in a container that is easy to carry such as a camping backpack or a duffle bag.


Make your preparations easier by downloading the checklists below with each category at Hurricane.

SAFTEY CHECKLISTS

Disaster-Planning


Tips for Horse Owners & Rescues




There are many different types of emergency situations that require disaster planning and could require you to evacuate your horses.


That’s why it's crucial to have solid plans in place to prevent barn fires and implement a safe evacuation if necessary.


To help make sure you’re prepared, download the ASPCA Disaster Tip Sheet that includes how to:

  • Ready your horses Prevent on-site fires
  • Ready your trailer
  • Locate a temporary caregiver
  • Plan your evacuation route
  • Collaborate with neighbors
  • Create an equine emergency kit

Post these tips in your barn and share them with adopters to help ensure the safety of your community’s equines during a disaster.

DISASTER TIP SHEET