Horse owners urged to prepare emergency plans for bushfire safety lessons from 2003 Canberra firestorm

The 2003 Canberra firestorm highlighted the need for better horse safety during bushfire emergencies. Horse owners are now encouraged to create emergency plans, prioritizing their own safety and understanding that horses can often manage on their own. Lessons learned include removing halters and rugs from horses to prevent injuries during fires. Education sessions have been held to inform horse owners about effective safety measures, emphasizing the importance of preparation and practice for emergency situations. Veterinary services were also impacted during the 2003 fires, leading to calls for comprehensive emergency plans for all animals. Owners are advised to microchip their horses and keep identification and medical information readily available.