Of all the potential natural disasters that could occur in South Africa, we’re more likely to experience floods than major earthquakes. Certain parts of our country have also experienced devastating veld fires, which destroyed everything in their path. Although we don’t even want to think about these disturbing disasters, we have to plan and prepare for them – especially if we have pets, small children or frail people in our households.
Location
Before you even start planning for a flood or a fire, it is important to know what the chances are, in your particular area, of such a disaster taking place. Find out what the likelihood of flooding is in your area – especially if you live in low-lying areas, or close to rivers and streams. If you’re surrounded by trees and bushes, what are the chances that a runaway fire would destroy your property? Knowing this information will help you to plan properly. Remember that disaster can strike at any moment. If you become aware of a possible flood near you, or if there’s a fire warning in your area, you have to act quickly. Don’t procrastinate and think you’ll do it later – later could be too late!
Planning
The best thing you can do is plan in advance, so that you’re as prepared as possible in the unlikely event of a natural disaster. This is what you need to put in place and prepare for, in case you and your family are ever in possible danger…
Pack an emergency container for your family, and one for your pets that contains:
- Pet food for at least one week.
- Medicine and a first aid kit.
- Sealed water containers.
- Leads and pet carriers.
- Bedding and extra towels.
- A sealed plastic bag with your pets’ documentation, microchip numbers, vet contact details and printed pictures of your pets for identification, in case you need them.
- A variety of toys.
- Calming spray, catnip or medicine to keep your pets calm.
- Paper towels, toilet paper and old newspapers for sanitary purposes.
- Litterboxes, cat litter and poop scoops.
Keep the emergency container high up – like on top of a cupboard or on the top shelf. It should be out of reach of children and pets, but easily accessible to you.
Escape route Find out which routes would be the safest to use if you have to evacuate your property.
Family and friends Establish in advance who would be able to assist or accommodate you and your pets in an emergency.
Emergency plan Devise an emergency plan with your family, so that everybody knows what to do and where to meet up, in case you get separated.
Safe and informed
Stay informed of the weather by following trusted weather apps. Listen to the news, but don’t pay attention to fake news. If it is safe to stay home, protect your home, wherever possible, with bags filled with sand, or other items that can protect your home from flood water or fire.
When staying home
If the threat is not too severe, or if you cannot leave your home for whatever reason, do the following to stay safe:
- Bring all your pets indoors immediately and close all the windows.
- If the water level rises inside the house, switch off the electricity at the distribution board and unplug all appliances.
- Whatever happens, don’t let your pets out of your sight. It is your responsibility to keep them safe.
- Never allow your pets to drink the flood water – it may contain diseases and bacteria.
- Use towels to dry your pets, and blankets to keep them warm.
- If you have a multiple-storey home, move to the upper level. If the water levels rise too high, move to the roof of your house, if possible.
Evacuation
The moment you are told to evacuate the area, do so immediately! Gather all your pets – place your cat in a carrier, your dog on a strong leash, small animals and birds in their cages – and grab your emergency container. Keep your pets as close as possible and know where they are at all times.
Use the planned escape routes and never attempt to cross running water, pans, rivers or streams, even if they seem shallow. You never know how strong the currents are, and cars can easily be swept away.
If you get into a situation where you can’t drive any further, gather your pets and family, and move to higher ground on foot, as quickly as possible. Even if your dog can swim, don’t allow him to, as the current might be too strong for him and could sweep him away.
Stay calm
As difficult as it may seem, try to remain calm, as this will help your pets to keep calm as well. Be realistic about the situation and leave your home or car, if you can, while it is still safe. Never leave your pets behind and do whatever you can to save them, while keeping safe yourself.
