Dumfries and Galloway farmers urged to take care while working outside during Storm Eowyn
Dumfries and Galloway’s farmers are being urged to take care while working outside during Storm Eowyn.
The region is set to be hit with winds of up to 100mph on Friday, with the Met Office issuing red and amber weather warnings for wind as well as a warning for snow.
NFU Mutual is advising farmers to check buildings and carry out repairs in advance of the bad weather, be prepared for powercuts and have evacuation routes ready for staff and livestock.
And they are urging people not to leave the house during the storm unless absolutely necessary.
NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist, Hannah Binns, said: “Isolated rural farms, dwellings and communities are more at risk from extreme weather, and with severe gales expected alongside rainfall and snow, we urge everyone to plan ahead and take care if working outside.
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“Safety for farmers, family members and workers should always be the number one priority and while fully understanding the pressures farmers are under, it is vital they avoid taking risks which could lead to injury or fatalities.
“Farmers can consider moving livestock to higher ground to protect them from flood water as well as moving machinery and electrical items.
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“For those working alone, it is important they tell someone where they will be and what time they should be back as well as carry a charged mobile phone while working outside and use the What3Words app to help provide a location in the event of an emergency.
“It is also worth checking alternative fuel and power sources in case of a power cut or disruption, such as making sure generators are in working condition and able to run at full load for long periods of time.”