Keeping Young Livestock Warm and Safe

It never fails on the farm that babies join at the most inopportune time. Calves, chicks, kids, piglets, lambs and foals all seem to be born when weather is at its worst. Hopefully, that isn’t the case on your operation, but if it is, a heat lamp or bulb is likely in your near future. Here are five heat bulb tips to keep in mind to keep you and your livestock safe this winter.

Security. Secure your heat bulb over the area like it is permanent. An option could be to use a chain and locking chain connector to prevent it from falling.

Placement. Where you put the heat lamp is critical. First and foremost, you want to make sure that it is doing its job and is close enough, but not too close to the animal or bedding. However, you also must consider any outside factors. Are there other animals, like the mother or litter mates in the pen too? If so, be sure the heat bulb is secured and placed so that they can’t knock it down. Also, be mindful of the animal’s water source. Knocking down the lamp or the bulb falling into the water trough could result in an electrical fire.

Clean. If you are re-using a heat bulb from previous years, be sure to clean off any dust before use, just as you would for any other electrical device.

Direct. Directly plug your heat lamp into an outlet. Do not use an extension cord. You want to make sure that you don’t overload the circuit but also that your bulb has the best connection to prevent a fire from a spark or electrocution if an animal chews on the wire.

Prepare. Always be prepared. Have a fire extinguisher and fire detectors around your livestock areas. Check your animals often under the bulbs to prevent any issues.