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From Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
Hurricanes are strong storms that cause damage and property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes. You can take steps to reduce the risk of serious disruption, injury or loss of life by making preparations. We want to do our part in helping you get prepared for a hurricane. Planning ahead can save time and lives in many types of emergencies. Even if you have taken some steps in the past to prepare, it is important that you revisit and update your communication plan and check your emergency preparedness kit for expired items. As your elected city officials, with the competent help of our city staff, this information has been prepared as another aid in assisting you to safely navigate through a hurricane if one is predicted for your area.
If you plan to shelter your pet – work it into your evacuation route planning. Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have the following:
- Proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings
- A carrier or cage
- A leash
- Ample supply of food, water and food bowls
- Any necessary medications, specific care instructions and newspapers or trash bags for clean-up.
- Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability. After the storm, walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home – often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.
- If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.
- After a disaster, animals can become aggressive or defensive – monitor their behavior.
PET DISASTER SUPPLY KIT
- Proper identification including immunization records
- Ample supply of food and water
- A carrier or cage
- Medications
Special Needs Medical Preparedness
If you have special needs or are caring for someone with special/medical needs, it is good to prepare for a disaster well in advance. The following are important points to consider:
- Do you or someone you take care of require special medication in times of turmoil?
- How about oxygen, tube feeding, dialysis, or other life sustaining equipment?
- Will a wheelchair, walker, a special bed, or special toilet items be needed?
- If you have to evacuate, will you need transportation?
- Will you or someone you take care of require a special needs shelter?
