As a Southern California resident, I’m no stranger to the threat of natural disasters. Earthquakes have long been a part of our reality, but recently, wildfires have become an increasingly pressing concern.
Last week, our community faced a harrowing reminder of nature's power when fierce winds drove a devastating fire through our area. As the power turned off and evacuation orders came in, I confronted an uncomfortable question: Despite living in this disaster-prone region for years, was I truly prepared?
The moments between the alert and our departure were a blur of rushed decisions and second-guessing. In the aftermath, I realized the importance of not just acknowledging the risks but actively preparing for them. Here are some crucial tips I've learned about being ready for wildfires - insights I wish I'd had before that fateful day.
My pets are at the top of my mind, as they are family too, but dependent on me. Here are some crucial tips about being ready for wildfires and other disasters I learned from this experience.
1. Keep a Family Evacuation Kit Stored in a Few Large Portable “Grab and Go Bins”
- At least 3 days' worth of water (1 gallon per day for each person and 1 ounce per pound of pet per day)
- 3 days of nonperishable canned food for cats and dry or canned food for dogs
- 3 days of prescriptions and medical records related to health issues and
- prescriptions
- Leashes
- Collapsible carriers (these conserve space until you need them)
- Blankets and reflective solar blankets to cover your crates and car if you are in a parking lot to limit sun exposure
- Waste bags
- Pee pads, if appropriate
- Cat litter and a small box
2. Keep Identification Up-to-Date
Ensure your pets have a way they can be identified and that all information is up to date on their tag and microchip record. Ensure their microchip information is in your “Go file.”
3. Plan Your Evacuation Route
Research and plan multiple evacuation options. Identify pet-friendly hotels or shelters along these routes and keep their contact information handy.
https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/emergency-animal-shelter-information-los-angeles-county-fires/
4. Practice Loading Pets into Carriers
Familiarize your pets with their carriers or crates—practice loading to reduce stress during an emergency. If your pet is reluctant to go in a carrier, start by playing games by throwing treats in it for them to retrieve or feeding them in an open carrier as often as possible. Remember that many shelters will not allow pets, so crate familiarity and training are imperative.
5. Designate a Trusted Caregiver
Arrange for a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to evacuate your pets if you're not home when an evacuation order is issued.
Discuss possible temporary housing for your pets, as many evacuation centers do not allow pets. Who would be receptive to letting your pets stay? Know this in advance.
6. Keep Vehicles Fueled and Ready
Always keep your car's gas tank at least half full during fire season.
7. Monitor the air quality
Regarding the dangers of breathing wildfire smoke, some humans and pets are at a heightened risk for health complications. First and foremost, animals or people with existing respiratory issues—such as laryngeal paralysis, asthma, or heart disease—are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, brachycephalic breeds, like Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs, as well as their feline counterparts, such as Persian cats, face increased challenges when it comes to respiration.
It's also essential to pay special attention to pets with dry eyes, as they may require extra lubrication to protect their eyes from irritants in the smoke. Finally, puppies and senior pets are more susceptible to the harmful effects of poor air quality, making it crucial for pet owners to monitor their health during wildfire events. Keeping these groups in mind can help ensure that our furry companions stay safe and healthy during these challenging times.
Whenever possible, limit outside exposure when the air quality is poor. Walks should be limited to elimination only. They do make canine masks, but I find my cats will not tolerate them.
8. Prepare a "Grab-and-Go" File and Keep it in Your “Grab and Go Bin”
- Create a folder with essential pet and human documents:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip numbers: this is critical in getting your pet back to you. Have your pet scanned for their number by the shelter or local vet so that you have their information for quick access and write it down before it is needed.
- Important human documents: birth certificates, passports, etc.
9. Other handy items for your “Grab and Go” Bin
- Power strip (if you are lucky enough to find power somewhere, you can share an outlet this way)
- Chargers
- Flashlights, batteries, lanterns
- Extra keys
- Chargers
- Cash
10. Don't Wait to Evacuate
If you need to evacuate, don't wait for the official order. Leave early to avoid traffic and ensure you have time to gather your pets safely.
Remember, our pets are entirely dependent on us to keep them safe. By following these tips and staying prepared, you'll be ready to protect the heart and soul of your home when it matters most.
