Livestock owners in South Australia are being urged to prepare for the threat of bushfires as the weather heats up.

Biosecurity South Australia executive director Will Zacharin said livestock owners should already have plans in place for what they would do in the event of their properties or stock being threatened by bushfires.

“There are a number of things all owners can do both before and after a bushfire comes through, such as establishing a ‘safe paddock’ close to the homestead or yards, which should be reserved for use in the event of a bushfire,” Zacharin said.

“It’s also important to maintain good identification of stock primarily by ear tags in the event of fences being destroyed and stock escaping.”

Horses can be identified by micro-chipping, freeze branding or careful recording of markings. Zacharin also recommends keeping photos of valuable stock and ensuring insurance policies are current and adequate.

“While caring for livestock and other animals before and after a bushfire is essential, personal safety should be considered as paramount on all occasions,” Zacharin said.

Farming guidelines for the reduction of bushfire risk are available here.