Emergency preparedness for Canadian livestock sector

November 8, 2017

An important part of facing an unexpected crisis is being prepared. That's why all Canadians should have a plan to take care of themselves and their families in an unexpected crisis—and it's no different for the Canadian livestock and agricultural community. Being equipped to deal with an emergency—such as an animal disease outbreak—is essential.

Such crises can have significant impacts on the sector's competitiveness and profitability. How the sector addresses these emergencies also influences the public's perception and trust.

A Canadian livestock emergency toolbox

The Livestock Market Interruption Strategy gives industry and governments access to a wealth of information to help stakeholders and farmers prepare for emergencies including developing their own emergency plans. Tools include lists of equipment and supplies needed to depopulate livestock, considerations for disposing of carcasses, a coordinated multi-agency approach to sharing information quickly and widely, and more.

While some of these tools are meant for associations or governments, farmers can benefit too. They can use them to develop a greater understanding of what governments are doing to prepare for the impacts of various potential crises, and to obtain information to consider when creating their own emergency plans.

Taking an active role in knowing what to do, who to contact and how to move forward is necessary for long-term success.

Find out more

• Emergency Management Framework for Agriculture in Canada
• Emergency Management Act (2007)