Wildfires can move quickly, leaving farmers and ranchers with little time to decide how they will protect cattle, horses and other livestock.

Alberta’s wildfire season runs from March 1 to Oct. 31, although fires can occur at any time of year. Hot, dry and windy conditions can allow flames to spread rapidly through forests, grasslands, pastures and farmyards.

For livestock producers, emergency planning can be more complicated than simply loading a vehicle and leaving. Moving a large herd may require several trailers, multiple drivers, suitable roads and a confirmed location where the animals can be housed.

Producers are encouraged to create a written livestock emergency plan before a fire threatens their property. The plan should identify where animals will be taken, how they will be transported and who can help if the owner is away or unable to reach the farm.

The Alberta government recommends contacting the local municipal agricultural department or director of emergency management to determine what livestock assistance may be available during a wildfire. Producers should also speak with neighbours, auction markets, feedlots, agricultural societies or other landowners who may be able to provide temporary pasture, corrals or shelter.

Transportation should be arranged well in advance. Producers need to know how many trailers and trips would be required to move their animals and whether loading areas can be reached safely during smoky or congested conditions.

Trailers should be maintained, accessible and ready to use. Fuel tanks should be kept filled because power outages or road closures may make fuel difficult to obtain during an emergency.

Animals should also be accustomed to handling and loading whenever possible. Trying to load frightened livestock for the first time while smoke, equipment and emergency vehicles are nearby can create additional danger for both animals and handlers.

Identification is another important part of emergency planning. Livestock should have visible and permanent identification, such as ear tags, brands, tattoos or electronic identification.

Producers should keep updated photographs, herd records, identification numbers, veterinary information and ownership documents in a location that can be accessed away from the farm. Digital copies may be useful if paper records are destroyed or left behind.

A livestock evacuation kit can include halters, ropes, portable panels, fencing supplies, handling equipment, medications, first-aid materials, flashlights, batteries and contact information for veterinarians, neighbours and emergency officials.

Feed and water must also be considered. An evacuation location may have room for livestock but may not have enough water, hay or suitable fencing to support them for several days.

Producers should determine how water would be supplied if pumps are unavailable because of a power failure. Backup generators, portable water tanks and alternate watering locations should be inspected before they are needed.

Not every emergency will leave enough time to remove an entire herd. Producers should identify areas on their property where livestock may be safer if evacuation is impossible.

These areas should have limited combustible vegetation, adequate water and enough space for animals to move away from heat and embers. Recently grazed fields, cultivated land or other open areas may offer more protection than wooded pasture or dry grass.

The Alberta government advises producers not to lock livestock inside barns or other enclosures when a wildfire is approaching. Animals confined in a structure may be unable to escape if the building catches fire.

Barns, corrals and livestock handling areas should be included in FireSmart work around the farm.

Dry grass, brush, branches, scrap lumber and other flammable material should be removed from around buildings and pens. Hay, fuel, firewood and propane should be stored as safely as possible and away from structures.

Access roads and yard entrances should be kept clear for livestock trailers and emergency equipment. Rural addresses and blue signs should be visible so firefighters and emergency personnel can locate the property in heavy smoke.

Smoke can also affect livestock even when a wildfire is many kilometres away.

Animals exposed to heavy smoke may develop coughing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, rapid breathing, fatigue or reduced appetite. Livestock with existing respiratory or heart problems may be at greater risk.

Producers should reduce strenuous handling, transportation or exercise during periods of poor air quality when possible. Fresh water should remain available and animals showing breathing difficulties or unusual distress should be examined by a veterinarian.

Farmers and ranchers should monitor Alberta Emergency Alerts, municipal notices, the Alberta Wildfire app and local fire conditions throughout the season. An evacuation alert means residents should prepare to leave, while an evacuation order means there is an immediate threat and people must leave promptly.

Alberta Beef Producers also maintains links to livestock emergency resources, including evacuation checklists and regional emergency planning guides.

The most important decisions should be made before smoke is visible from the farm.

Knowing where animals will go, who will move them and what equipment will be required can prevent valuable hours from being lost when conditions change suddenly.