By Andi Anderson
As flooding and severe weather continue to impact communities across Michigan, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is urging residents, farmers, and food businesses to take steps to protect farms, food supplies, and pets.
Flooding can pose serious risks to health, livestock, and property if safety measures are not followed.
“When flooding happens, safety comes first. Keeping pets and livestock away from floodwater and moving food and supplies to higher ground can help prevent illness and damage,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “MDARD is working with the State Emergency Operations Center and local partners to make sure residents have the information and support they need.”
For farms, preparation includes maintaining an accurate inventory of animals, including species, numbers, and locations. Veterinary histories, vaccination records, disease testing, and animal movement records should be kept updated.
When flooding threatens, livestock should be moved to higher ground whenever possible. Farmers should keep gates or buildings accessible so animals can escape rising water, and ensure access to clean, uncontaminated food and fresh water.
Farm buildings and equipment should also be protected. Utilities should be shut off, and doors or windows left open slightly to reduce structural pressure. Motors, portable electrical equipment, and chemicals such as pesticides should be moved to dry, elevated areas.
Food safety is critical during flood events. Food, utensils, linens, and single‑service items that come into contact with floodwater must be discarded and properly disposed of. Residents and food businesses should elevate food supplies whenever possible.
During power outages, refrigerator and freezer doors should remain closed to preserve temperature and reduce food loss. Food retailers are encouraged to follow emergency action plans and evacuation guidance.
Pet owners are urged to evacuate with pets and seek pet‑friendly shelters or accommodations. Pets should not walk through, swim in, or drink floodwater, which may contain dangerous bacteria, chemicals, sewage, and debris.
If exposure occurs, pets should be rinsed with clean water and monitored for illness. Pets should also be kept on leashes, as flooding can alter familiar surroundings and increase the risk of animals becoming lost.
Residents are encouraged to follow state emergency updates and preparedness information through official MDARD, MSP, and MIReady communication channels.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jj-gouin
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety