 When preparing for a fire it is vital to ensure all members of your family are taken into account including your animals. Fire plans should be specific to your property type and taken to consideration not only your fire risk but what resources you have available on your property when it comes to food, water and transportation. If you plan to leave early and take your animals you will need to allow plenty of time to do this. Keep an eye on fire danger ratings and move them prior to high risk fire days. Smoke in the area can distress animals causing them to be easily aggravated. Preparation is key. Make sure your destination can accommodate animals. Have bedding, food and water ready to go and make sure you have a safe method of transportation. If you are in a position where you have horses or livestock and you are unable to relocate them move them to a large well grazed area where they can move freely with a supply of water. Remove all rugs and halters and open internal gates to allow the animals additional room to move. Do not open external gates where the horses are located. This could pose a serious risk to both the animals and vehicles on the road. Evacuating when you have animals can be a complex task so being well prepared will help minimise stress on yourself and your animals in an emergency situation.