Being prepared for an emergency at home involves careful planning and education. Be sure each member of your family is prepared to deal with emergencies by learning emergency services numbers, family member information and by developing a plan. Children should know how to contact parents at work, know their phone number and address, and what neighbors they should turn to in case of an emergency.
One part of planning is creating a home disaster supply kit for human, as well as pet, family members.
Your home disaster supply kit should contain the following items, according to the Red Cross:
* 3-5 day supply of water at one gallon per person, per day
* Nonperishable food that does not require cooking and a non-electric can opener.
* First-aid kit, medicine, a battery operated radio, flashlight, extra batteries, candles and lighters.
* Personal items, such as toilet paper and trash bags, an extra pair of glasses and an extra set of the keys you normally carry.
* Change of clothes, rain gear, sturdy shoes, blankets or a sleeping bag.
* Special items for infants, elderly and disabled family members, if needed, and a list of family physicians and emergency contacts.
* Have credit cards, cash and a cell phone readily available.
Don't forget your pets in case of an emergency. But remember, some emergency shelters do not allow pets, even if they are crated, so it is good to have an alternative plan. While the American Kennel Club strongly discourages leaving pets behind in cases of an emergency, when there is no other alternative, be sure they have plenty of food and water and post your location in a prominent place. Also, post a warning outside to alert emergency personnel that there is a pet inside.
The American Kennel Club suggests packing a three-day supply of essentials for each pet. An emergency pet kit should contain the following items:
* The pet's normal food (with a can opener, if needed) and plenty of water.
* Food and water bowls, blankets and towels.
* Favorite toys.
* Plastic bags to pick up excrement.
* Leash and collar with ID tag.
* Rabbies vaccination tag.
* Photocopy of AKC papers (if needed) and shot record.
* Veterinarian's name, address and phone number.
* Pet first-aid kit and any medications the pet may need.
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