•In an emergency, the fire service must save human lives first. Do not put yourself or rescuers in further danger!
•Mud is very dangerous for large animals. Vital functions can be impacted in a short time. Improper extraction methods can cause more damage than the entrapment.
•DO NOT GET INTO MUD OR DEEP WATER TO ATTEMPT A RESCUE! CALL 911!
•Try loosening mud around animal by pumping in water or air. Use caution with electrical cords, diesel fuel, etc. Do NOT PULL ON HEAD!
•MAKE SURE the animal has a SAFE ZONE to jump or walk into! Give animal opportunity to self-rescue.
•Assign a "SAFETY PERSON" to keep eyes on everything.
•In flooded pasture/Ranch areas: greatest danger can be submerged power lines, fences & barbwire.
•Do not attempt to move animals if you cannot see fence posts!
•If you are subject to severe flooding, mark fence posts at intervals, using tape or secure flags.
•Remember: water is a super conductor!
•Stay SAFE during storms. Evacuate ASAP and move animals when possible.
•Leave dry food in shelters when possible.
•Use extreme caution when returning.
•Watch for floating containers and spreading contaminants, carcasses, hazardous debris, power lines, etc.
•Call 911 and/or Animal Control for carcass removal assistance. Public health & safety are everyone's first priority! Animal health affects ours, too!