Take precautions in event of cold spells

TEAGASC has advised dairy farmers to take precautions in the event of further cold snaps during January, which could leave them injured for the busiest time of the year, the calving season.

Essential walkways around the farmyard should be treated with de-icing salt.

On dressing for the weather, farmers are advised the key is to wear a number of layers for warmth with flexibility. A waterproof layer and headgear are essential. Weak batteries get found out in a cold snap. And if jump starting, farmers are advised that a weak battery could be frozen and could explode when jump started.