During recent weeks, severe weather, including tornados, derechos and heavy precipitation have occurred in many areas of the U.S. resulting in destruction, flooding and other impacts on farming communities.
Recent industry advisories recommend preparation for weather events:
- Critical supplies, including diesel fuel for generators, should be ordered in advance of weather events.
- Feed bins should be filled to provide for flock consumption and to stabilize structures.
- A comprehensive, photographic inventory depicting housing and equipment should be prepared and stored in a remote location for review by insurance adjusters in the event of weather damage.
- Employees should be trained to respond to severe weather with appropriate written procedures and drills.
- Function of alarms and remote relay of power failure events or fire should be verified at weekly intervals.
- Insurance values should be updated to reflect replacement values. The quantum of coverage should be confirmed by the broker or insurance provider.
- Management should ascertain what resources will be available from local, state, and federal agencies and how compensation will be obtained.