Officials with the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

offer the following tips for farmers preparing for a major storm like a hurricane:

¸ Store or secure items or equipment.

¸ Identify places to relocate animals away from low-lying areas.

¸ Check generators to be sure they are in good working order, and secure a sufficient amount of fuel.

¸ Turn off the propane supply at tanks.

¸ Secure propane tanks in the event of flooding.

¸ Move equipment to the highest open ground possible and away from trees or buildings.

¸ Mark animals with an identifier so they can be easily returned if lost. Examples are ear tags with the name of the farm and phone numbers; brands; paint markings on hooves or coat.

¸ Move feed to higher ground or to a more accessible place in case of flooding or transportation problems.

¸ Coordinate with neighbors and discuss what resources can be shared.

¸ Keep a list of important phone numbers to make calls after a storm.

¸ Monitor local weather reports for up-to-the-minute information on storms.