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Prepare for Winter Farm Work

Although the winter months may be less hectic, day-to-day responsibilities persist, and the winter weather can make working conditions more hazardous. Here are some tips to be prepared for winter weather conditions.

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Updated:

October 30, 2025

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Dressing in Layers is Key

Protect yourself from cold-related illnesses such as trench foot, chilblains, and frostbite. Dressing in layers allows you to shed layers as you warm up. You can also add layers if you get cold. Most heat loss (approximately 40%) is through your head, so grab a warm head cover that covers your head and ears. A jacket or sweatshirt with a hood provides an extra layer of protection for your head and face. Protect your extremities by wearing thick gloves on your hands and warm, dry socks, toe guards, and cold-weather boots on your feet. Heated vests, socks, and coats continue to gain popularity and can be helpful. As much as possible, avoid wearing cotton because it holds moisture and once wet, it is no longer insulating.

Avoiding Slips, Trips, and Falls

Ice and snow create a slippery work environment, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Have sand, salt, or stone ready to cover those slippery walkways and surfaces. Cleats or ice grips on your boots can provide you with extra traction. Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common sources of workplace injuries, so take it slow when walking in the driveway or barn or getting on or off equipment.

Taking Care of Yourself

Farmers sometimes watch the nutrition and care of their livestock more than their own. Dehydration can occur in any season, so it is essential to stay hydrated, even in winter. Take care of yourself by taking breaks, eating healthy food, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Be your best so you can effectively manage your farm operation.

If you work outside and take any medications, check with your doctor to determine if you need to take any specific precautions when working in cold conditions.

If you will be in a remote area, let someone know your location and approximate return time. In addition to packing water and snacks, pack the following items in your vehicle: extra layers of clothing, a first aid kit, a headlamp, a multi-purpose tool, and a radio or cell phone.

Tools to Save Time and Work

During the winter, checking on animals in the barn can be a real chore between bundling up in winter gear and maneuvering across snow-covered walkways. Installing a camera system in the barn will enable you to monitor the animals in the barn from the comfort of your home. Another time-saving device is a deicer for your animals' waterer as it reduces strain on you and always provides your livestock with the proper hydration.

Organizing the Workday and Tasks

You and your workers should rotate between jobs to limit time outside or unheated areas. Heat sources, such as heaters and air jets, can warm areas for stationary work. Allow yourself and your workers to complete tasks at a reasonable pace and take extra breaks in cold conditions.

Emergency Preparedness

Winter storms can cause power outages, blocked roadways, and other emergency situations. Planning ahead for these issues both your home and your farm operation can save you money and time. Typically, storm warning are posted with ample time to prepare. Here are some preparation steps for your farm operation:

Animal Care – Stock extra water, feed, bedding, medicine, and sanitation supplies.
Heat and Water – Ensure water systems and heating for animals have backup options.
Equipment - Place tractors, snow plows, and blowers where they can be accessed easily during emergencies.
Fuel - Keep a multiple-day supply of fuel for equipment and generators.
Generators - Ensure generators are inspected, serviced, and ready before a storm approaches.

Here are some practical steps you can take to prepare your family and home for an emergency:

Store Water: Keep at least a two-week supply of water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation needs. The recommendation is at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Stock Food: Have a two-week supply of shelf-stable, nutritious foods that do not require refrigeration, cooking, or special preparation.
Plan for Cooking: Ensure you have safe ways to cook or heat food, such as camp stoves, butane burners, or grills.
Health and Well-being: Have a two week supply of vitamins, prescription medication, and daily supplements.
Lighting: Candles, gas-powered lamps, and battery-operated lights can provide light during power outages. Candles and lamps can pose a fire hazard, so place them carefully to prevent tipping or being knocked over. Have a multipe week supply of disposable batteries and change all rechargeable batteries so they are at full strength before an emergency.
Communication: Charge all your devices before a potential storm and limit their use to conserve battery life for emergencies. Ensure your portable power banks are fully charged, allowing you to recharge devices as needed.
Transportation: Fill up your vehicles with fuel and check the supplies of restock your emergency kit with a blanket, warm clothes, water, food, first aid, etc. For a complete list, visit Readygov.
Heat: If you use wood, coal, or kerosene as backup heat in an emergency, be aware of the potential risk of carbon monoxide and fires, and have working detectors for both in your home. Prior to using it, clean your chimney and inspect your flue.