Farm and Ranch Health Threats After a Flood

Summary: Disaster recovery can be as dangerous as the disaster itself, especially if no disaster preparedness plan was implemented. This is especially true on farms and ranches where inherent farm hazards such as machinery and equipment, livestock, and agriculture chemicals are displaced and co-mingle, putting all emergency response personnel, farm workers and family members in danger. Floods can heighten the risk of health threats such as mold, tetanus bacteria, contaminated well water, heat illness and high stress. This presentation will highlight basic precautions to prevent possible diseases and injuries during and after flooding.

Objectives: At the end of the presentation, attendees will be able to:

– Identify common human health risks faced during a farm flood.

– Discuss prevention tips and injury prevention for common human health risks.

– Identify special considerations for working with livestock during a weather event.

– Discuss steps involved in developing a disaster preparedness plan and how to safety active a response.

– Discuss appropriate respiratory personal protective equipment needed during flood recovery.

– Identify warning signs for behavioral and mental health during and after recovery.

Intended Audience: All individuals living/working on farms and ranches affected by flooding.