Severe Weather Action Plan
 The recent outbreak of severe weather across America illustrates the essence of having an action plan in place.
Spring storms can turn deadly in seconds, even with advanced warning, so it is a good idea to establish where to take cover and how best to get your pets to comply.
We know striking lightning, howling wind, hail and wailing sirens can frighten and confuse our pets, but our composure as owners also influences their behavior.
When time is of the essence, planning ahead and having your storm-safe area ready will tremendously enhance your ability to protect yourself and your beloved pets.
Homes with basements have an obvious advantage. So set yourself up to survive at a good point in the basement, away from incoming utility junctions with a way out if the home collapses.
During the months when storms are more likely, we suggest keeping pet taxis "staged" for rapid pet deployment. With multiple pets of our own, it takes up to 15 minutes to corral all of them and secure them in our storm-proofed area. If you have pets that are "hiders" then it may take much longer. Typical warning to damage time can be as short as 9 minutes.
Here's the good news: prepare for the unlikely event of a catastrophe or disaster and it won't waste time if you must act. The number one thing to remember is to protect yourself so that you can help others.
One easy way to do that is establish a family meeting place or contact point so we all know we're ok. Then proceed as you determine using the following ideas. Of course, we ALWAYS want to hear from you if there is an idea/strategy you want to share.
If you haven't a basement, identify the innermost area that offers protection from flying debris, such as an interior hallway or bathroom.
Once you've determined your safe zone, and at the risk of being redundant, check to make sure it isn't near the major gas/electrical connections, and that it is well-constructed to withstand the possible collapse of the structure.
Now that we know where to go, get it ready by keeping it stocked with a good first-aid kit, a gallon or two of sealed water, batteries and battery powered lighting and radio, a tarp/blanket, the pet kennel itself (we keep ours upturned with the door open for quick deposits, and another soft-sided one upstairs for additional transport), pet food or treats to use as enticements, and a pry-bar type tool to use if you become trapped.
For disaster preparedness and prolonged lack of services, keep as much potable water as needed to last 3-5 days (this takes some discipline but can be done at little to no expense in about 1 hour every other month), pet/people food, extra litter/Chux pads, and any necessary meds. Again, make sure you keep your medications and necessities amply available so that YOU can care for your loved ones.
Keep pet collars and identifying tags on pets. If your pets don't have tags consider buying ones with your name, phone number and address. Microchipping can also be invaluable in the event your pet is separated from you.
Consider posting stickers in windows or doors that provide information that you have pets and how many in the event you are hospitalized or incapacitated.
Having these items in place can be something you do seasonally, or leave year-round. The other half of your plan should include making sure you have your cell phone, laptop, identification, insurance info and some cash. This will help more than you can imagine if you lose your home.
Make sure your entire family understands your plan. Get to know your neighbor and discuss with them what to do if you're away from home and your pets need rescue/shelter. Most people are willing to help, even if they don't know/like each other.
For Safe Pets Trust clients the good news is that we've already developed a template for your pets and home that can be easily practiced and implemented in disaster emergencies. We can help you customize a plan for your peace of mind and help you remain calm in the eye of the storm.
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