Fire Preparedness for Horse Owners: Your Essential Summer Survival Guide

Proactive Steps to Protect Your Horses and Property This Fire Season

As the Australian summer approaches, the risk of bushfires becomes a stark reality for many horse owners. Being unprepared can put your beloved horses, property, and even your own safety at risk. The good news? With thoughtful planning, you can dramatically improve your chances of keeping your animals safe and minimising stress during emergencies. Here’s your practical, step-by-step guide to preparing a comprehensive fire plan for your horses this summer.

Preparing for Emergencies: Time-Saving Tips

Being prepared for emergencies can save you valuable time and reduce stress when unexpected situations arise. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

1. Create an Emergency Fire Plan

• Designate a meeting place for family members and/or friends.

• Establish communication methods and emergency contacts.

• Review and practice the plan regularly.

• Specifically for your equine babies, start by drafting a clear, actionable fire plan tailored to your property/agistment and horses. Your plan should detail:

  • Evacuation procedures

  • Contact information for your vet, local emergency services, and horse transport providers

  • Horse identification (photos, microchip numbers, distinctive markings)

  • Location of important items (halters, leads, first aid kit, feed)

Print copies of the plan and store them in key locations (stable, float/ute, house), preferably in something that is fire proof. Save a digital copy on your phone for quick access. Share it with family, agistees, and anyone else who may be on your property during fire season.

2. Identify Evacuation Locations by Region and Fire Threat Direction

Fires can approach from any direction, so map out at least two safe evacuation sites in different regions. Consider:

• Neighbouring properties with large, well-cleared paddocks

• Community safe places or showgrounds designated for animals

• Riding clubs or friends’ properties outside high-risk zones

• Ensure you get each property's Property Identification Code (PIC) and print/complete Transport Stock Statement (TSS) forms in advance (these are supplied by your local State Land Agency), as these are mandatory when you move horses around

  • New South Wales (NSW)

    • Contact the NSW Land and Property Information Office for specific inquiries.

    • Current TSS form is here

  • Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

    • Contact the ACT Land Development Agency for assistance.

    • Currently, you can use the NSW TSS above, however, please check with your local Agency to confirm your requirements

Plan multiple routes to each location, taking into account possible road closures or changing fire fronts. Rehearse your evacuation plan with your horses—loading an anxious horse into a float is a skill best practised before disaster strikes.

3. Marking Up Horses with Identification

Proper identification of horses is essential for ownership verification, recovery in case of loss, and ensuring the horse's health and safety. Here are some effective methods for marking up horses:

• Microchipping

Microchipping is a reliable way to identify your horse. This process involves implanting a small chip under the horse's skin, usually in the nuchal ligament area. The chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal control officer. Here are the steps:

• Consult with your veterinarian to discuss the microchipping process (a good time to get this done is at their annual dental/vet check-up).

• Schedule an appointment for the procedure, which is quick and minimally invasive.

• Ensure that the microchip is registered with your contact information in a national database.

• Branding

Branding is another traditional method of marking horses, typically done with a hot or freeze brand. This method leaves a permanent mark on the horse's skin, which can help identify ownership. Keep in mind:

• Branding should only be done by a professional to ensure it is done humanely and correctly.

• Check local regulations regarding branding practices.

• Tattoos

Tattooing is commonly used in racehorses and can be applied to the inside of the lip or other discreet areas. This method provides a visible form of identification. Consider the following:

• Tattooing should be performed by a qualified professional.

• Keep a record of the tattoo number for future reference.

• Identification Tags

Horses can also wear identification tags attached to their halters or plaited into their manes or tails. These tags can include the horse’s name, owner’s contact information, and any relevant medical information. To implement this:

• Purchase durable tags that can withstand outdoor conditions. [Purchase ones here (no need to braid for this one!)]

• Consider using a permanent marker to put your mobile phone on their hooves (in a stark contrasting colour)

• Regularly check the tags to ensure they are legible and securely attached.

• Documentation

In addition to physical markings, maintaining proper documentation is crucial. Keep records that include:

• The horse's registration papers.

• Microchip information and registration details.

• Medical records and vaccination history.

• Trackers

If you were really concerned and had the spare cash, you could consider placing GPS trackers on your horse's manes or identification tags from above. Some options would be:

• iTagPro

• Apple AirTag

• AussieWoof GPS Tracker for Pets

• PetNo GPS Tracker

• EOZETS Pet Tracker

By combining some of these identification methods, you can ensure that your horse is easily identifiable and safe in any situation.

4. Arrange Transport and Logistics for Your Horses

Don’t wait until fire is at your doorstep to think about transport. If you own a float or truck, keep it fuelled and ready to go. Otherwise, line up reliable transport options with neighbours or local horse transporters. Know how many horses you can move at once and how long it will take. For larger properties, prioritise horses with the greatest need (young, elderly, or injured).

Maybe even have your float hooked up to your vehicle ready to go! Seconds and minutes may mean the difference between life, death and injuries for both you and your horse. Look for any way to do things as quickly and safely as possible.

For the Canberra region, check out some transport companies or float hire options here.

5. Preparing for Float Loading/Transport Training

Complete Float Loading Training in Advance (I cannot stress this enough!). Ensure you complete float loading training well in advance of any potential emergency situations. This allows you to become comfortable with the procedures and equipment. Aim to participate in the training multiple times to reinforce your skills and knowledge, making it a seamless process during emergencies. When emergency strikes, minutes and seconds can be the difference between life and death for both humans and horses alike.

1. Familiarise Yourself with the Equipment

2. Schedule Training Sessions

3. Complete Float Loading Training in Advance

4. Practice Regularly

5. Review Emergency Protocols

6. Conduct Emergency Mock Drills (such as attach float to towing vehicle, prep and load horses and do a drive around the block)

7. Review what went well and whether there was room for improvement

   
   

Not sure what you can do to work on float loading/transport training? Then check out this post for more help.

6. Assemble/Review an Equine Emergency Kit

• Include essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, first aid items, and flashlights.

• Have a separate first aid kit for equines and humans (as we have different requirements when managing injuries).

  • Check out St John's Ambulance for human first aid kits

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container.

• Regularly check, discard expired products, and update the kit as needed.

Fire-related injuries, particularly burns and smoke inhalation, require immediate attention. Check your equine first aid kit and restock as needed. Not sure what should be in your Equine First Aid Kit, check it out here.

Keep detailed instructions in your kit(s) and make sure everyone on your property knows where it is and how to use it. Here are some good starting points:

• Dr. Kellon's Guide to First Aid for Horses by Eleanor Kellon VMD

• Essential First Aid: The Horse Owners Handbook by My Horse Supplies.com.au

• Handbook of Equine Emergencies by Debra Archer

• Horse Owner's Veterinary Handbook by Thomas Gore, Paula Gore, James M Giffin & Beth Adelman

• The Complete Equine Emergency Bible by Karen Coumbe

• What to do until the Vet Arrives: Emergency Care for Horses by Dr Nancy Loving

7. Products to Have on Hand for Equine Emergencies

Aside from first aid, consider these must-have products:

• Sturdy halters and lead ropes for each horse (preferably leather or natural fibre, as synthetic can melt)

• Identification tags or livestock paint for marking horses

• Spare buckets and water containers

• Portable feed bins or hay nets

• Protective horse rugs (not synthetic)

• Battery-powered torches and radios

• Battery packs

8. Hay and Feed Requirements During Fire Season

Supply chains can be disrupted during bushfires, so stockpile at least a week’s worth of hay and feed in waterproof, fire-resistant containers. Store them in a safe, easily accessible location. Don’t forget extra water—horses may drink more in smoky or stressful conditions. If you have to evacuate, have enough feed and water for at least 48 hours for each horse.

9. Stay Informed

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications.

• Follow weather updates and news reports.

• Know the emergency procedures for your area, including evacuation routes.

For NSW: Download and install the "Hazards Near Me" app for NSW, on your mobile device(s).

For ACT: Utilise the Emergency Services Agency website.

10. Organise Important Documents

• Keep copies of identification, insurance policies, and medical records in an easily accessible location.

• Use a fireproof safe or a digital storage solution (cloud options are awesome for this as it is offsite and generally safe from deletion) for critical documents.

11. Maintain Your Vehicle(s)

• Keep your fuel tank at least 3/4 (three quarters) full.

• Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition with regular maintenance checks.

• Check your towing capacity on your vehicles and where possible have a back-up option for towing.

• Store a human and equine emergency kit in your car, including blankets and snacks/food.

12. Educate Yourself and Your Family

• Take equine and human first aid and CPR courses.

• Teach family members how to use fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.

• Discuss emergency scenarios and appropriate responses.

13. Create a Inventory

• Document your belongings with photos and descriptions for insurance purposes.

• Store the inventory in a safe place or digitally.

By taking these steps ahead of time, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies efficiently and effectively.

14. Post-Fire Care for Horses

After a fire, horses may suffer burns, respiratory problems, or stress-related issues. Monitor your horses closely for:

• Signs of burns (redness, blistering, hair loss)

• Coughing, nasal discharge, or laboured breathing

• Lethargy, reduced appetite, or unusual behaviour

• Don't hesitate to get your vet to look at your horse, horses who are burnt or have respiratory issues are an emergency

Seek veterinary attention for any injuries or signs of distress. Keep horses calm, provide shade and clean water, and avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by a vet.

There is a detailed list of vets in the Canberra region here. [HOT TIP: bookmark this page on your phone].

Additional Considerations: Supporting Your Vets During Emergencies

Vets are often stretched during fire emergencies. Help them help you by:

• Having clear records of your horses’ health history and medications

• Communicating injuries and symptoms clearly

• Following triage instructions promptly

Consider volunteering with local animal response groups or donating to veterinary emergency funds if you’re able or help others in need (without compromising your safety).

Dos and Don’ts: Quick Reference Guide

Do	Don’t
Do practise your evacuation plan regularly	Don’t leave horses locked in stables or yards
Do keep your equine and human first aid kit stocked and accessible	Don’t use synthetic gear or rugs during fires
Do mark horses with identification	Don’t wait for an official evacuation order—leave early
Do keep contact details up to date	Don’t block driveways or access points
Do support vets and emergency workers	Don’t forget to check fences and gates post-fire
Do make sure water troughs, tanks and any fire sprinkling systems set up on your property AND filled	Don't put your life in danger

Conclusion: Stay Proactive, Stay Safe

While bushfires are an unfortunate reality of the Aussie summer, proactive planning can make all the difference for your horses’ safety and wellbeing. Start your preparations now—discuss your plan with your family, agistees, and neighbours, and practise evacuations regularly. Remember, your calm and readiness will reassure your horses when it matters most. Stay safe this summer, and may you and your herd weather the season unscathed.

Any other suggestions you have to help our horsie community be better prepared - share them here in the comments!