September 22nd 2025
Farming is a year-round job – but shorter days, falling temperatures and unpredictable weather all make the Autumn and Winter months a real test of resilience. It’s a time when even routine tasks carry greater risk and when forward planning can make all the difference.
By anticipating seasonal challenges and putting preventative measures in place, estate owners and farmers can protect their people, livestock and livelihoods from unnecessary disruption.
Here, we shine a light on the most common risks faced during the colder months and share practical advice to help custodians of the land stay one step ahead of the season.
October
Bull mating season is upon us, bringing with it a heightened risk of aggression and unpredictable behaviour. Even the most experienced farmers can be caught off guard, making vigilance essential during this time.
To ensure safety, signs should be displayed in prominent positions across farmland warning visitors and walkers of the presence of bulls, especially in areas with public rights of way.
Equally important is reviewing insurance policies to confirm they cover the specific risks associated with introducing external bulls. This includes protection against potential public liability claims if a member of the public is injured, as well as cover for loss of or injury to valuable livestock.
By taking proactive safety and insurance measures, farmers can minimise risks to people, livestock and business continuity during this challenging season.
November
As colder, wetter weather sets in, barn activity increases over the winter months and with more machinery, livestock and workers moving through confined spaces, the risk of accidents grows.
One of the most significant hazards during this period is the storage of hay and straw bales – and if not managed correctly, they can pose a serious fire and safety risk.
Improper stacking not only creates the potential for falls and crush injuries but can also invalidate insurance if stacks exceed policy limits. In addition, the sheer volume of combustible material stored over the winter months means that even a small spark from faulty electrics or nearby machinery could result in a devastating fire.
Barns should be secured, stacks split where possible and fire prevention measures put in place – from ensuring working fire extinguishers are available to maintaining clear access routes for emergency services.
Ventilation should also be considered, as damp or poorly dried hay can self-heat and spontaneously combust, while insurance policies should be regularly reviewed.
During the winter, rodents tend to make barns, feed stores and machinery their home, seeking shelter and warmth.
While their presence poses multiple risks, such as contaminating food, spreading disease and causing damage, one of the most serious hazards comes from rodents chewing through electrical wiring which can spark fires and result in costly repairs.
Farmers should close possible entry points using hard-wearing materials such as metal sheeting, and any holes should be repaired. Feed stores should be secure and well-maintained, while debris that rodents can use for nesting, such as wood and rubble, should also be removed.
Regular inspections of electrical wiring, machinery and infrastructure should be undertaken to check for signs of infestation. Rodent tracking powder or paste can also help farmers spot activity before an infestation spirals out of control.
From rural lanes to the farmyard itself, the movement of heavy machinery and vehicles always carries a risk of accidents. Winter conditions – reduced light, slippery surfaces and poor visibility – only increase the likelihood of collisions, whether with other vehicles, livestock or even pedestrians. The consequences can be serious, ranging from injuries to costly damage and disruption.
Regular maintenance is essential. Brakes, tyres and lights should be checked frequently, while reflective markings on machinery and high-visibility clothing for workers on foot can further improve visibility. Around the farm, keeping areas clear, well-lit and organised with safe through-routes helps minimise the risk of incidents. Operators must also hold the correct licences, training and insurance cover before taking control of vehicles.
Finally, farmers should review motor and liability insurance to confirm it covers incidents on public roads and within farm boundaries, as well as accidents involving seasonal workers and hired-in machinery.
December
With the UK averaging 24 days of snowfall or sleet annually, farmers must be prepared before the cold snaps set in.
Sustained snowfall can lead to collapsed farm building roofs and damage to expensive machinery, creating significant financial strain before lambing season.
Farmers should assess the snow load design of their buildings and review their insurance policies to understand what is covered.
While many insurers include weighted snow damage within snow cover, others classify it as an individual peril. Business interruption cover can also provide crucial support if alternative premises with high rent costs are needed.
Proactive measures can help avoid costly repairs and disruption during winter. If safe to do so, brush snow from low-lying roofs to prevent collapse. Insulate water pipes to avoid cracks and leaks, and maintain fences to prevent weakening and livestock escapes.
Snow and ice also present dangers for people working on the farm. Slips and trips become more common in icy conditions, and handling cold machinery for extended periods can increase the risk of injury. Providing non-slip footwear, warm waterproof clothing and encouraging regular breaks to warm up all play a role in protecting staff health and wellbeing during long winter shifts.
With winter comes heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. For farmers, flooding brings a number of challenges, from delays in planting schedules and damaged essential infrastructure to contamination of livestock water sources.
To mitigate risks, farmers should review and update flood risk management plans, ensuring drainage systems are well-maintained and free from blockages.
It is also crucial to check insurance policies for cover on flood damage and business interruption to safeguard against financial loss.
Proactive measures, such as creating flood barriers and monitoring weather forecasts, can also help protect farmland and livestock from the devastating effects of heavy rainfall.
Severe and prolonged cold spells place additional strain on livestock.
When temperatures drop, not only are animals more vulnerable to stress and illness, but they also need more energy to maintain body heat, which quickly depletes feed reserves if not carefully managed. As well as monitoring stocks closely and planning ahead for additional supplies, shelter should also be considered with buildings offering more protection from the chill and icy conditions.
Water supply is another concern. Frozen pipes and troughs can prevent livestock from accessing sufficient drinking water, leading to dehydration and compounding health problems. Regular checks and insulating vulnerable pipework are essential to keep supplies flowing.
We provide our clients with more than just insurance solutions.
Our experienced staff understand your needs.
Divisional Director
Director
Account Executive
Account Handler
Account Handler
