How to keep livestock safe during evacuation | Top Stories [Video]

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – With the Upper Applegate Fire putting two zones in level two “Get Set” evacuations, there is more to protect than just family and property — residents also need to protect their animals and livestock.

If the evacuation level were to increase to level 3, the hundreds of properties near the fire would need to leave in a moment’s notice.

Jackson County’s emergency manager, Holly Powers, said this is why preplanning what to do with your livestock is so important.

“Have a plan and talk with neighbors, or friends, family that may have a barn or pasture space that (you) can move (your) animals to,” Powers said. 

She emphasized that having a plan for livestock in case of evacuation should be done before a fire were to start, but said it is even more important to solidify plans once a fire starts.

The Jackson County Expo typically …