RICHMOND—Virginia Farm Bureau is encouraging farmers to make sure their farms are prepared for severe winter weather.

“Take advantage of the slower season, and bring your equipment into your barn, garage or workshop and service and clean it,” said Jimmy Maass, the organization’s safety manager.

Maass suggested checking antifreeze and other fluid levels and referring to manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing specific equipment.

Never work on equipment while the engine is running, especially inside a building, he said. “You will put yourself at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and the equipment could jump into gear and cause bodily harm.”

Wear safety glasses when operating a pressure washer to clean equipment, and never spray someone with a pressure washer. Water lines that will not be used during the winter should be shut down and drained to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Empty water-type fire extinguishers unless they have antifreeze in them.

It’s also a good time to clean up around the property before snow covers items and creates a tripping hazard, Maass said.

Clear low-hanging tree branches away from fences to minimize damage during high winds and ice storms, and make sure outdoor electrical wires are secure.

Have ice melt, rock salt or cat litter on hand to use in case of ice or snow, and store those products and other chemicals separate from livestock feed.

Contact Maass at 804-290-1379.