During Emergency Preparedness Week, the Humane Society and Humane Society of Ontario and Ontario Fire Chiefs Association remind you to have an emergency preparedness plan that includes your pets.
Here are five tips to keep you and your pets safe in an emergency:
- Put together an emergency preparedness kit that contains everything you, your family, and your pets will need in the first 72 hours of an emergency. You should review your emergency kit at least twice a year and update it as necessary.
- Have an evacuation plan that includes your animals. Check that evacuation destinations accept pets.
- Make sure your dog or cat wears a collar with an ID tag, ideally with your phone number or the number of a family member out of your area in case they can’t reach you by phone. It is also important that your pet be microchipped to help increase the chances of meeting in an emergency.
- Keep a current photo of your pet with you. Be sure to include your name, address, and a brief description, including any unique markings, in case you need to reclaim your pet or share information about your lost pet during an emergency.
- Place an emergency decal on the front door to let first responders know pets are inside the home. If an emergency such as a fire occurs when you are not home, this helps improve the chances that your pets will be rescued or receive the care they need. To request a free emergency sticker, click here
“We urge people to take the time to plan for the unexpected. By having a plan and the emergency supplies you need to shelter in place in place, you will be in a better position to help your loved ones, including your pets,” says Jennifer Bluhm, vice president, community services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.
“We are proud to partner with the Ontario SPCA and the Humane Society to observe Emergency Preparedness Week this May,” says Rob Grimwood, president of the Ontario Fire Chiefs Association. “As a nonprofit organization committed to the fire and life safety and well-being of our community, we recognize the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters, including those that may affect our furry friends.
“Working together with the Ontario SPCA, our goal is to raise awareness and promote preparedness measures that ensure the safety and well-being of people and animals during times of crisis. This collaboration reflects our shared dedication to safeguarding lives, including those of our beloved pets, and underscores our commitment to be proactive in safeguarding the well-being of our community.”
For more emergency planning resources and to request a free emergency door sticker to let first responders know pets are inside, click here.