Emergency Preparedness

What is a disaster?

A disaster is a sudden event or natural catastrophe that causes great damage or loss of life.

Some examples include hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, or floods.

Have an emergency kit prepared:
- Water- one gallon per person, per day.
- Food- non-perishables that are easy to make
- Manual can opener
- Basic utensils to prepare and serve meals
- Health supplies
  - 3-day supply of all medicines, at a minimum
  - Medical supplies (syringes, walking cane, or hearing aids, etc.)
- Personal care items
  - soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, contact lenses or glasses
- Safety supplies: first aid kit, blanket, multipurpose tool, whistle
- Electronics: flashlight, radio, cell phone with chargers, extra batteries
- Copies of important documents such as insurance cards and immunization records
- Paperwork of serious or on-going medical conditions
- Extra cash
Make a family communication plan
- Choose an emergency contact
- Complete a contact card for each family member
- Know telephone numbers

Before a disaster:

Not all shelters accept pets. Be sure to plan in advance for shelter options for both you and pets.
Develop a buddy system with neighbors or friends so that someone will be able to care for your pets if you are unable to do so.
Assemble and emergency kit for your pet:
- Food and water for at least three days.
- Medicines, medical records, and first AID kit
- Collar with ID tag, harness, or leash.
- Crate or pet carrier
- Picture of you and pet together
- Important documents ie. registration and vaccinations
- Familiar items: favorite toys, treats, bedding
- Plastic bags for clean-up after pet.
During a disaster:
- Bring pets inside immediately
- Separate dogs and cats, anxiety may affect their behavior.
- Feed them moist or canned food so they will need less water to drink.
- Have extra newspapers for sanitary reasons.