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Drought Safety and Stress

Drought brings fire risk, heat, long hours and financial worry. Looking after your health and each other is part of getting through it.

Where can you turn if you are struggling?

In the United States, anyone in distress can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, at any hour. In an emergency, call 911. You do not need to be in crisis to call; talking with someone is a good reason on its own. See the 988 official site for chat and other options.

Farm stress is real and common, and it is not a sign of weakness. Drought adds uncertainty about crops, animals, debt and the future. Asking for help is a practical step, the same as calling a mechanic or a vet.

Livestock operations carry added weight in drought, since feed and water decisions must be made every day. Those decisions are easier with a trusted adviser, so reach out early.

• Call or text 988 at any hour
• Call 911 in an emergency
• Reaching out is practical, not weak

What are signs of stress to watch for in yourself and others?

Changes in sleep, appetite, mood or energy can be signs. So can irritability, withdrawal from friends, drinking more, neglecting chores or the farm, or losing interest in things that used to matter. Signs differ from person to person.

If you notice changes in someone, speak to them privately and kindly. Listen without judgment and without trying to fix everything. Ask how they are doing, and encourage them to talk with a health provider, clergy member, friend or the 988 Lifeline.

Keep an eye on children and teens too. They may hear conversations about money and worry quietly. Age-appropriate honesty, and time together away from work, help the whole family.

How does drought change physical safety on the farm?

Dry conditions raise fire risk from sparks, hot equipment and open burning. Check local burn restrictions with your fire department, since rules differ by county and state. Keep spark-producing work away from dry vegetation and keep a charged phone and fire extinguishing tools ready, according to guidance from your local fire officials.

Long hours and worry also cause fatigue and mistakes. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid shortcuts around machinery and animals. Heat can accompany drought, so see the heat-related articles on this site and CDC guidance.

Hot, dry weather can also make equipment fires more likely, so keep machinery clean of chaff and residue as recommended in your operator's manual, and keep access to water and an extinguisher nearby.

• Check burn restrictions before any fire
• Keep spark work away from dry fuel
• Plan rest and hydration
• Do not skip machine safety steps when rushed

Where can you find drought information and assistance?

Farmers.gov and USDA offices explain programs, eligibility and deadlines that may apply to your situation. Do not rely on rumors or memory about what is available. Call your local service center and ask.

Your county extension office can talk through livestock water, feed and pasture decisions, and your lender or financial adviser can discuss money. Your state department of agriculture may also have resources.

Local conservation districts and state water agencies may offer information on water use and restrictions. Rules differ by state, so ask your local office instead of assuming.

How can families and workers support one another?

Share the load. Talk openly with family and workers about plans and pressures, and include teens in age-appropriate ways. Check in with neighbors, especially anyone who lives alone, and keep community ties active through church, clubs and local groups.

Many regions have farmer-to-farmer support, helplines and counseling programs. Ask your extension office or state agriculture department about what is offered, and see the AgriSafe Network for rural health resources.

If you are an employer, consider how you talk to workers about the season. Open, steady communication reduces fear, and workers who feel safe asking questions are more likely to raise safety concerns.

What should you do in a crisis?

If you or someone you know is thinking about self-harm or is in immediate danger, call 911 or call or text 988. Stay with the person until help arrives if that is safe. Do not leave them alone, and do not argue or blame.

If you are worried about someone, you can call 988 yourself to ask how to help. For other lines or services, see the official 988 site, and ask a health professional for local options.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.