Please remember your pets count on you for their safety in emergency situations.  They cannot fend for themselves.  Treat them as you would any other member of your family.  Here are a few valuable tips from ASPCA.

Emergency Pet Preparedness by the ASPCA

Hurricanes, wildfires, flood...if disaster strikes, are you prepared to protect your pets?  A few simple steps can help ensure you won't be caught off guard.

  Display a Rescue Alert Sticker - A personalized sticker on your front door alerts rescue worker to the type and number of pets indoors. For a free sticker, visit the ASPCA website at www.aspca.org/emergency.

  Arrange a Safe Haven - Should you need to evacuate, have a list of reputable boarding kennels, shelters or local hotels that accept pets or arrange ahead to bring your pets to a friend's home. Red Cross disaster shelters will not accept pets.

   Prepare an Emergency Travel Kit - Store an emergency kit and leashed near your home's exit. Include a pet first-aid kit; a two week supply of pet food, water,  pet medications, food dished, disposable litter trays and photos of your pets (in case your pet is lost and you need to make posters). A flashlight, blanket (handy for scooping up fearful pets) and a carrier or traveling case are also helpful.

   Choose a Designated Caregiver - Give a set of house keys ahead of time to a trusted friend or neighbor in case you're unable to return home to your pets. Arrange for a temporary or long-term foster home in case you cannot care for your pets.

   Prepare Your Pets - Collars and tags with up-to-date contact information are essential for all pets. Bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Should your animal become lost, know where your local shelters and rescue organizations are located and start looking for a missing pet as soon as possible.

   Prepare Your Home:

• For high winds: Utility rooms, bathrooms and basements offer safe havens clear of such hazards as windows or flying debris.

• For loss of electricity: Fill up bathtubs and sinks with fresh water ahead of time.

• For flooding: Select the highest room in you home that has a counter or shelves where your pet can take shelter.