Mark's weekly blogging

If you're a pet lover like so many are, read this carefully.  The tips here can help keep your pets safe, or help to make sure you are reunited with them in the event disaster strikes.  For more tips, visit the National Hurricane Center at www.nhc.noaa.gov or contact your local veterinarian or humane society. 

Before the Disaster:

-Make sure your pets are current on vaccinations as shelters may require proof.

-Have a current photograph with you.

-Have a leash, collar, and ID tag on your pet.

-Have a pet carrier for each animal that is large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.

-There are many potential shelters for pets, but do your research!  Not all animal control shelters, veterinarian clinics, friends or family will be able to take them in.

During the Diaster:

-Shelters that allow pets have requirements such as tags, ample food supply, bowls, medications, etc.  Be sure to know what will be needed to bring your pet to a shelter.

-Bring pets indoor well before the storm comes and reassure them to help them remain calm.

After the Disaster:

-Walk pets on a leash to help them get used to their surroundings again.  Many things can change during the disaster such as downed trees.

-It pets cannot be found, contact the local animal control office to find out where they can be recovered.  Bring your pet photo with you.

-Pay extra care aster the disaster as pets can become aggressive or defensive. 

-Discuss potential hazards.  Know your homes strength against storm surge, flooding, and wind.

-Locate a safe room.  Know the safest room in your home in the event a hurricane comes.  Keep in mind it may not be in your home, but in your neighborhood or community.

-Have an out-of-state family contact.  Be sure your entire family has one point of contact that will not be effected by the storm when you are.

-Post emergency phone numbers by your phone and make sure your children know how and when to dial 9-1-1.

-Check your insurance.  Flood damage is not typically covered by homeowners insurance.

-Stock nonperishable supplies and your disaster supply kit.

-Have a radio.  Make sure to check the batteries every 6 months with your smoke detectors.

-Take CPR and first-aid classes.

While none of us can truly predict where Hurricane Bertha will go, it is important that we all prepare ourselves in the event she pays us a visit.  Here is the next set of tips to help keep you and your family safe in the event she threatens your town.

In the event that a disaster threatens your area, keep these things in mind.

-Do not wait to evacuate.  The roads get very congested when officials issue evacuation orders.  If possible, leave before an order is made.  This will help shorten your travel time and help you get to safety sooner.

-Select an evacuation destination near to your home.  If possible, find a shelter or hotel that is near to you home.  This will help minimize the distance you have to travel.  Keep in mind these locations fill up quickly and you'll need to plan ahead. 

-If you leave your local area, be prepared.   Many people leave to stay with friends or family a good distance away from home.  Delays are inevitable on the roads.  Pack your car to have food and drinks while on the road.  Also, be sure you have plenty of time to reach your destination safely.  Remember, hurricanes are unpredictable. 

-Book your reservation before leaving home.  If you plan to stay in a hotel or motel, be sure to make sure that you have a reservation.  Even traveling a great distance will not guarantee a vacancy.  Often, the hotels and motels along highways fill up quickly. 

-Have a shelter plan JUST IN CASE.  In the event that there are no hotels, motels, friends, or family to stay with - have a list of shelters available to you.  Also, be sure to always have your supply kit.  Remember, MOST shelters DO NOT permit pets.  If you have pets - make appropriate plans for them.  DO NOT abandon them at home.  This leads to many problems in the future.