Summer means Fire Season

Here in California, and especially now with a water shortage, we are all aware of the fire danger. Having a smart plan in place can give your pets the best chance of survival. The key is preparation as fire moves very quickly and you have less time than you think to evacuate. 

The first thing to do is to Plan Ahead. Having a plan in place now can mean the difference between life and death for both you and your pets. Start by installing smoke detectors. If you choose the battery operated kind (instead of hard-wired), remember to check them twice a year. Schedule that check around a holiday – it will help you remember. Most smoke detectors start to beep when their battery is running low. This irritating reminder, will also help you to make sure your batteries are fresh. 

Next, if you have to evacuate, have a grab bag already packed stored close to the exit. Not only is this a good idea for fire emergencies but remember we also live in earthquake country. Here is a list of essentials for that life-saving bag:

1. Leash & harness for each dog
2. A week's supply of food (which should be rotated monthly to ensure freshness
3. Bottled water
4. Medication
5. A current photo of each pet (for ID should you become separated)
6. Toys
7. Extra towels/blanket
8. A dog crate with your contact information on it
9. Paper towels & plastic baggies for clean-up
10. Most importantly make sure your dog's ID tags are current along with microchip information.

No Pets Left Behind - it's the law.

After the heartwrenching scenes from Katrina, in 2006, the Pet Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS) was signed into federal law which requires state and local emergency facilities to address the needs of companion animals during a disaster. They often work in conjunction with veterinary offices and local shelters to temporarily house pets. The best solution would be to keep your pet with you or at a family or friend's house.

But what if you are not home when the fire breaks out.  One of the things you can do is to place alert stickers on your home's front and back doors or a window to notify rescue personnel that you have dogs inside. You can get them free of charge from the ASPCA at www.aspca.or/pet-car/disaster-preparedness website. If firemen see the stickers, they will look for your pets.

It is also a good idea to make arrangements with a neighbor or good friend who can watch your pets until you can reach your home. Be sure to give this person a set of keys and emergency contact numbers and get theirs as well. Perhaps a reciprocal arrangements can be worked out.

While evacuating your home because of fire can be stressful and confusing, being prepared will help both you and your pets remain calm and evacuate quickly and safely.