Be prepared in case of an emergency evacuation
We got the phone call at 11:10 p.m. the Saturday of the flooding rains. One of our district high schools was "open as an emergency shelter if we needed to evacuate."
I looked at the dog and cat. This emergency disaster stuff is getting close to home. I decided it's time to be proactive and get serious about planning for an emergency.
September has been designated as National Preparedness Month by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Both the Department of Homeland Security and the Humane Society of the United States offer specifics about disaster planning for our families and pets.
The HSUS reports a Zogby International poll found 61 percent of pet owners will not evacuate if they cannot bring their pets with them.
Congress addressed this issue in 2006 by passing the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act, which requires state and local emergency management agencies to make plans that take into account the needs of individuals with pets and service animals in the event of a major disaster or emergency.
The HSUS advises, "Be prepared to take pets with you if evacuation orders are issued. If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for them. If you are ordered to shelter in place, bring your pets inside with you."
The HSUS suggests the following to reduce our animal's chances of being at risk during disaster:
• Put a collar with visible, up-to-date identification on your pets, including indoor only pets. Add your current cellphone number to your pet's tag.
• Take pictures of you with your pet for identification purposes.
• Create a pet emergency kit and refresh the items every few months.
• Talk to your neighbors about how they can help your pets if you are not at home when disaster strikes.
• Create a list of hotels outside our immediate area that allow pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size and species. Inquire if the "no pet" policies would be waived in an emergency.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the HSUS describe the contents of your pet emergency kit. Include these items:
• A three or more day supply of food in airtight, waterproof containers and drinking water. Add a manual can opener if you are packing canned pet food.
• Bowls for food and water.
• Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof container, as well as first-aid pet supplies.
• Comfort items such as a toy and blanket.
• Small garbage bags.
• For dogs, include a sturdy leash, harness.
• A container to carry everything.
• Carriers to transport pets safely and to ensure your pets can't escape. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around and lie down and to use as a sleeping area.
• For cats, include litter and a litter box and a sturdy carrier large enough for transport and for your cat to use as a temporary "apartment" for a few days.
For more information on preparedness plans for our pets, go to http://humanesociety.org/prepare, The HSUS Emergency Services Center or www.ready.gov/america/getakit/pets.html. The HSUS website even has a Disaster Preparedness Quiz.
I did go out and buy a blue container with a lid and filled it to make an emergency kit. Think about making one. Evacuation orders are just a phone call away.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit 501(c) 3, shelter. Call (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.