Farm Country Reminded To Be Prepared During September

Many Northwest farming communities, from North Central Washington to the Palouse and into Oregon have been impacted this month by wildfires. While other areas have suffered flooding or wind damage this year. Whatever the threat is to your community, the AARP is reminding you to be prepared for the unexpected. The AARP’s Sean Voskuhl said preparing for natural disasters during pandemic adds an extra challenge.

“Preparing the farm or ranch for a natural disaster is an ongoing activity. But, in 2020, it’s important to further address farm worker safety, along with the safety of your family and farm, or livestock. The Red Cross recommends enough supplies for seven days per person, including water, masks, hand sanitizer and medications.”

Voskuhl added It’s also important to talk about your natural disaster plan regularly with everyone involved on the farm. Voskuhl said it’s important to make sure you’re ready for whatever could hit your farm.

“It’s important to know what disasters may impact your farm or ranch, and how they will do so. Certain disasters are naturally more common in specific geographies across the United States. Are you concerned with flooding, severe storms, wildfires, or hurricanes? Know what types of natural disasters are more likely to impact you, so you can efficiency develop your plan.”

And, following natural disasters, Voskuhl warns, know how to identify relief scams.

“We hate to say this, but in times like these, after a natural disaster strikes, fraudsters are on the prowl to take advantage of the situation. They might offer to repair damage at a reduced rate but want all the money up-front. Or they’ll tell you they’re from your insurance agency but you don’t have the proper ID. Or they could represent a fraudulent relief fund. So beware, and do not feel pressured to say yes in these situations,” Voskuhl added.

September is National Preparedness Month.

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