Its never recommended to wait until an emergency is occurring, to gather a plan of action. With hurricane season beginning tomorrow, June 1st, now is the time to plan for yourself, family, and pets. For the entire Gulf Coast Hurricane Preparedness 2022, pamphlet, go to:https://www.weather.gov/media/mob/pdf/GulfCoastHurricanePrep.pdf
Where to Get Up-to-Date Information on Weather Events:
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) is the official voice of the National Weather Service. Watches, warnings, advisories, forecasts, current weather conditions and climate data are broadcasted frequently. NOAA Weather Radio is helpful anytime, however it is especially important to tune in when severe weather is occurring. During dangerous weather, normal broadcasts are interrupted and the focus shifts to local severe weather.
Planning & Preparation:
Remember to review evacuation routes. Knowing how to leave quickly is important.
Tips for hurricane season home prep include consideration of mobile homes, landscaping, roofing, doors, and windows.
Mobile Homes:
Landscaping:
Roofing:
Roofing Recommendation for South Houston/Galveston: Stillwater Construction; (832)340-0838
Doors:
Windows:
Emergency Supply Kit:
List of Emergency Supplies to Include:
Pets:
Your plan should include ALL family members, including your pets! Here are a few suggestions from NOAA:
1. Take your pet with you when evacuating. You are the best person to care for your pet. If the situation is dangerous for you, then it is most likely dangerous for your pet.
2. Know where you can take your pet. Find hotels that are pet-friendly, or ones that will accept your pet during an emergency. Plan to go to a friend or relatives house, who will allow you to bring your pet.
3. Ensure your pet is used to a crate. Getting your pet into a crate for travel will be easier once your pet is used to it. Familiar surroundings can help to ease anxiety.
4. Make sure you pack your pets food, medications, have their vaccination records and pet insurance information (if you have a policy). Include these items with your disaster kit so you can quickly access them.
5. If you are unable to get home, prior to an approaching hurricane, your pet will be better off if youve made prior arrangements with a neighbor, friend, or relative, who can care for them. Temporary caretaker should have contact information for you & your vet. Additionally, you should include a signed authorization for veterinary care & financial limits for veterinary care.
6. Emergencies can cause pets to behave in unexpected ways. Well-behaved pets may become aggressive or defensive after major disruptions in their lives. Be cautious when letting your pet out after an emergency. Allow your pet plenty of time to rest and get used to their new surroundings. Provide familiar toys, if possible.
More resources at: www.ready.gov/pets
www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html