Worried about your chickens’ safety during a storm? We’re sharing a few top safety tips to help you prepare.

Before the storm arrives…

• Secure your coop. Will wet ground or flooded water compromise the integrity of your coop? Ensure your coop is secured tightly to the ground. Sandbags can be used to help secure coop runs.

• Inspect the coop for loose, dangerous items. Will wind and rain knock boards or panels loose? Are there objects in the coop that could be a hazard if knocked over by wind or rising groundwater?

• Provide perches and roosting space to keep birds out of standing water. Secured pallets can be used to provide an elevated standing space.

• Make sure your coop is tall enough to handle rising waters. Ensure birds will remain safe if inches of water collect on the ground. Chickens stuck in a space with a low roof can become fatal if water rises, posing the risk of drowning.

• Keep feed dry. Bacteria and parasites love wet areas, so keeping feed dry is critical. Secure waterers and feeders to prevent them from being knocked over by winds.

• Inspect debris around the coop for potential dangers. Nearby tools, branches, or other materials can become hazardous when winds hit. Remove items that could damage your chicken’s shelter if thrown by the wind.

• Disconnect nearby electrical sources. Electricity and standing water do not mix. Ensure all nearby electrical sources are turned off to prevent electrocution injuries.

• Have a backup plan. If storm conditions call for potential evacuations, plan how you and your flock would navigate this.

After the storm has passed…

• Check birds for signs of illness or injury, administer first aid to any who need help

• Check the coop for signs of damage, ensure birds are still secure and safe

• Ensure feeders have ample dry food

• Clean waterers that may be harboring bacteria

• Clear any nearby hazards that traveled to the area

• Beware of predators that the storm displaced (stray dogs, foxes, etc.)

• Replace wet bedding to combat mold growth

Dealing with a storm is stressful, but having a plan can help make this hard time a little easier.

What else should be added to this list? Let us know in the comments!

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