Skillful Living

Introduction

This checklist will guide you in gathering the necessary supplies to ensure your homestead or small farm is well-prepared for various emergencies. From severe weather events to power outages or animal health emergencies, having the right essentials can make a significant difference in your safety, the well-being of your livestock, and the resilience of your operations.

Category 1: Food and Water for Humans and Livestock

• Non-perishable food items for humans (e.g., canned goods, dried fruits, nuts): Stock up on foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. Choose items with a long shelf life, such as canned beans, tuna, soups, or energy bars. Aim for a minimum of three days’ worth of food per person.
• Animal feed and water supply: Maintain an ample supply of animal feed, including hay, grains, and supplements, to sustain your livestock. Store enough water to meet their hydration needs during emergency situations.
• Water storage containers and water pumps: Have water storage containers of sufficient capacity to store water for both human and livestock consumption. Keep a manual or backup water pump in case of power outages.
• Water troughs and automatic watering systems: Ensure your livestock has access to clean and fresh water through properly functioning water troughs or automatic watering systems.

• Bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day): Store enough water to last each person in your household for at least three days. Water is crucial for hydration, cooking, and sanitation purposes.
• Manual can opener: Make sure you have a manual can opener available to open canned foods in case of power outages.
• Disposable plates, cups, and utensils: Opt for disposable options to minimize the need for water for washing dishes.
• Water purification tablets or filter: In case your water supply is compromised, having water purification tablets or a filter can help make water from natural sources safe to drink.

Category 2: Emergency Equipment and Tools

• Flashlights, headlamps, and extra batteries: Keep multiple sources of portable lighting, such as flashlights and headlamps, readily available. Check and replace batteries regularly to ensure they are operational.
• Portable generator and fuel: Consider having a portable generator on hand to provide emergency power for essential equipment, such as water pumps, refrigeration, or electric fencing. Store an adequate supply of fuel safely.
• First aid kit for humans and animals: Assemble comprehensive first aid kits that include medical supplies for both humans and livestock. Include bandages, antiseptics, wound dressings, medications, pain relievers, tweezers, and veterinary supplies. Also, if you or any family members require prescription medications, keep a supply for at least a week or more, depending on the situation.
• Hand tools and equipment: Have a set of essential hand tools, such as wrenches, pliers, hammers, and screwdrivers, knife, multi-tool, for basic repairs and maintenance tasks, opening packages or cutting rope.
• Chainsaw and fuel: If applicable, keep a chainsaw with proper safety gear and an adequate supply of fuel for clearing fallen trees or branches during emergencies.

• Duct tape: Duct tape is a versatile tool that can be used for temporary repairs, sealing openings, or creating makeshift solutions.
• Matches or lighters in waterproof container: Include waterproof matches or lighters in a sealed container to start fires for warmth, cooking, or signaling purposes.
• Rope or paracord: Having a length of rope or paracord can help with setting up shelters, creating makeshift clotheslines, or securing items.
• Work gloves: Sturdy work gloves provide protection during cleanup or handling debris.
• Sanitation and personal hygiene supplies (hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes): Include hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and garbage bags for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation during emergencies.

• Portable radio or NOAA weather radio: A portable radio will keep you informed about weather updates and emergency broadcasts. Consider a radio that operates on battery power or has a hand-crank feature.
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper): Pack travel-sized toiletries, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and toilet paper, for basic personal hygiene, if evacuation becomes necessary.
• Cash (including small bills): Keep a small amount of cash on hand in case ATMs or electronic payment systems are unavailable during emergencies.
• Local maps: Have physical maps of your local area in case electronic navigation systems are not accessible.

Category 3: Communication and Power Planning

• Cell phone and portable charger: Keep your cell phone fully charged and have a portable charger or power bank (battery or hand crank) available for recharging. Consider investing in a solar charger for prolonged power outages to remain connected.
• Two-way radios or walkie-talkies: Set up a communication system with two-way radios or walkie-talkies to stay connected with family members or farm workers during emergencies.
• Emergency contact list: Compile a list of important phone numbers, including local emergency services, medical professionals, veterinarians, neighboring farmers, and support networks (family/friends). Keep a printed copy in your emergency kit.
• Farm map and evacuation plan: Create a map of your property indicating key locations, such as livestock shelters, emergency exits, utility shut-offs, and water sources. Develop an evacuation plan for your animals and communicate it to your family and farm staff.
• Whistle or signaling device: A whistle can be used to attract attention in case of emergencies, especially if you’re unable to call for help.

Category 4: Shelter, Clothing and Livestock Care

• Emergency blankets or sleeping bags: Keep lightweight, compact emergency blankets or sleeping bags to provide warmth during power outages or if you need to evacuate.
• Extra clothing appropriate for the weather conditions: Pack extra clothing suitable for the prevailing weather, including warm layers, rain gear, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
• Tarp or plastic sheeting: A tarp or plastic sheeting can provide temporary shelter or protect your belongings from the elements, if evacuation becomes necessary.
• Tent or emergency shelter (if applicable): Depending on your situation and the availability of space, consider including a lightweight tent or emergency shelter in your preparedness supplies (only applies if evacuation becomes necessary).

• Animal shelters and secure fencing: Ensure your livestock shelters are structurally sound and capable of withstanding severe weather conditions. Regularly inspect and maintain fencing to keep animals safe and contained.
• Emergency bedding and nesting materials: Stockpile bedding materials, such as straw or wood shavings, for your livestock’s comfort during emergencies.
• Emergency livestock feed and medications: Maintain an emergency supply of animal feed and medications for essential nutritional and medical needs during extended emergencies or supply disruptions.

Category 5: Fuel, Energy, and Heating

• Stored fuel for farm machinery: Maintain an adequate supply of fuel for tractors, generators, and other farm machinery that may be essential during emergencies.
• Alternative heating sources: Consider having backup heating sources, such as wood-burning stoves or propane heaters, to provide warmth in case of power outages during cold weather.

Category 6: Documentation and Important Information

• Copies of important documents: Keep copies of essential documents, such as IDs, passports, birth certificates, and insurance cards/policies, wills, property deeds, farm permits, and veterinary records, in a waterproof and portable container.
• Emergency procedures and protocols: Develop clear emergency procedures and protocols for your farm operations. Include instructions on animal evacuation, sheltering, feed rationing, and water conservation.

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies on your homestead or small farm. Regularly review and update your supplies, equipment, and emergency plans to ensure everything is in working order.

Remember to involve your family members and farm staff in preparedness efforts and conduct regular drills to practice your emergency procedures.

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