WILD- Lesson 2- Types of Disasters

Types of Disasters

Hurricanes- During a hurricane it is recommended that you bring your pets with you and never leave them at home. Animals left behind can get injured, get ill, starve, drown from flooding, and hamper human evacuation. Identify a place ahead of time to evacuate pets to. Be sure to identify your pets with collars and ID tags. Microchipping is also a great way to identify the pets.

Tornado- Tornados usually happen with little or no warning. Pet owners who live in tornado prone areas should make sure they have identification on all of their pets. Keep small animals such as small dogs and cats indoors. This will better protect them if a tornado strikes. It is a good idea to practice bringing your animals to a safe location before the tornado strikes. Animals can become frightened during extreme weather so practicing gathering them together, leashing dogs, etc. will help if/when the real situation happens.

Floods- Floods are an overflowing of a large amount of water beyond its normal confines, especially over what is normally dry land. You should always bring pets with you in the event of a flood. Animals left behind are likely going to drown. Identify a place ahead of time to evacuate to during a flood. Many towns and counties have flood evacuation routes already established.

Earthquake– An earthquake (also known as a quake, tremor, or temblor) is the shaking of the surface of the Earth, resulting from the sudden release of energy in the earth. Earthquakes can range in size from those that are so weak that they cannot be felt to those violent enough to toss people around and destroy whole cities. When you feel an earthquake, gather your pets, and stay inside. Seek shelter under a sturdy table away from windows and glass doors. The animals may find their own place that they feel safe inside. It is OK to let them do that. If you are outdoors go to an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines. If you are driving, be sure to pull over on the side of the road and stop. Avoid parking near overpasses and power lines and do not leave the car until the shaking is over.

Home Fires- According to the American Red Cross an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by fires every year and that 1000 fires each year are started by pets. Be sure to include your pet in your family disaster plan. It is a good idea to have a pet rescue sticker on your front and back doors. You can get a sticker for free at https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/order-your-pet- safety-pack. The first thing a first responder will see on your door is that you have pet inside. For smaller animals, have a pet carrier handy enabling you can gather them and evacuate quickly. Make sure your pet is wearing identification and/or microchipped.

Wildfires- A wildfire is a fire that is out of control. It needs to be put out or suppressed. Wildfires may be caused by lightning, volcanic activity, arson, or human carelessness with campfires, cigarettes, fireworks, or machinery. It is important to have an evacuation plan in areas that are prone to wildfires. You need to be able to take your animals with you or if you are not home, identify neighbors that can help get your animals to safety. As with all disasters, make sure your pets are identified.