Managing the Event

Never enter a collapsed structure unless first responders indicate it is safe to do so.

Never approach downed or hanging power lines when a structure collapses as they could be charged (live) and you could be electrocuted. Stay back at least 33 feet (10 metres) from wires or anything in contact with them. Report electrical hazards to the police and the utility company.

If possible, shut off natural gas/propane lines to damaged building.

How to Recover Effectively: 

By preparing your emergency response plan templates and lists of who to call for assistance, where to get emergency supplies and clean-up equipment, will save a lot of time and stress after you experience a structure collapse.

Before beginning clean-up and disposal operations, be sure to check with your insurance company and your municipality regarding requirements and restrictions.


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Farm buildings may collapse due to fire, wind, excess snow load or deterioration.

Structural Collapse Response Procedures

Use your Emergency Contact List of who to call and follow your General Procedures as well as the following:

Tell the Dispatcher if there are:

  • Missing personnel by performing a head count;
  • Poultry in the barn including the type and number, and if the is loose poultry; and
  • Other animals in the vicinity of the fire including the type and number.
 

Steps or Activities that should be taken to Start Recovery

Examine the Site

  • Wear sturdy boots and shoes when venturing near the collapsed structure. Consider protective head gear as well;
  • Survey the outside and inside of your barns and other structures for structural damage, sharp objects, downed power lines, damaged gas lines, or other hazards. Assess the stability and safety;
  • Be aware of hazards that may cause injury to you or others cleaning up-these can include chainsaw injuries, electrical or chemical hazards;
  • Check machinery and equipment for damage; and
  • Utilize tarps to protect exposed feed or moisture sensitive equipment. Do not feed water damaged or moldy feed.

 

Care for Poultry

If poultry was housed in the structure, examine all surviving poultry closely. Collect information on injuries and numbers before starting to euthanize. Record all mortalities. Consult your veterinarian and your industry representative for depopulation support. Even in times of emergency, euthanasia of injured birds should only be performed by certified and trained personnel.

  • Move uninjured poultry to another location if possible;
  • Be aware that surviving uninjured birds might be stressed from events, effecting poultry behaviour and productivity;
  • Assess all survivors with your veterinarian and consider euthanizing birds if necessary;
  • Consider emergency processing; and
  • Dispose of dead carcasses using proper deadstock disposal methods.


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Man Made and Natural Disasters