Protecting your family

Florida Keys Hurricane Guide 2009

The best way to make your family and home safer is to be prepared before a disaster happens.

Kids

A disaster can be a very scary and difficult time for everyone, but especially for young children. The effects of a disaster may cause your family to leave your home and sleep somewhere else for a while. Living in an unfamiliar place can be confusing to a child, so it is important that you plan ahead and bring things that will comfort them. It’s smart to put together a “Kid’s Activity Survival Kit” so they will have things to do and share with other kids. These can all be stored in a backpack or small duffel bag. Just be sure it can be carried easily.

Some suggested items for your Kid’s Activity Survival Kit:

• A few of their favorite books

• Crayons, pencils or marking pens and plenty of paper

• Scissors and glue

• One or two of their favorite toys such as a doll or action figure

• Board game and a deck of cards

• A puzzle (One with lots of pieces is good—it takes a long time to do!)

• Small people figures and play vehicles that you can use to play out what is happening during your disaster—such as ambulance, fire truck, helicopter, dump truck, police car, small boats.

• Favorite stuffed animal or puppet

• Favorite blanket or pillow

• A “keep safe” box with a few treasures that make them feel special

Babies

Babies have very specific needs.  It is important to plan for your baby and its special needs before a disaster.

Suggested items that should be prepared are:

• Formula

• Baby Food

• Baby Bottles/Pacifier

• Powdered Milk

• Diapers

• Moist Towelettes

• Diaper rash ointment

• Medications

• Warm, cushioned blanket

• Portable crib/playpen

Pets

All pet owners should make arrangements for their pets if they plan to evacuate. Remember, many disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety regulations, so be sure to contact your local shelter to find out about their pet policies.  Service animals for people with disabilities are an exception. For shelters that allow pets, you must provide proof of updated license and vaccinations. Do not wait to have your pet vaccinated, since many vaccinations can take 3-4 days to take affect and may not be acceptable by disaster shelters if performed at the last minute.  All pets must also be in an “airline approved” pet carrier.

If you can’t take your pets with you, make arrangements ahead of time with a clinic or kennel to care for your pet. These arrangements should be made well in advance because available spaces can fill up quickly during times of disaster.

Here are important items to have for your pet in the event of a disaster:


• Vaccination papers
(Be sure your vet includes vaccinations for Kennel Cough, Parvo, and Distemper)

• Leash

• Collar with Pet’s Identification Tag

• Pet food and water

• Food and Water Bowl

• Medications

• Name and contact information of your pets’ veterinarian

• Recent Picture of Pet

• “Airline Approved” Pet Carrier
(Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand up, sit, and turn around)

Never leave your pets at your home if you choose to evacuate. Remember, “If it’s dangerous for you, it’s dangerous for them.”

Create a specific plan for your family online by visiting http://www.floridadisaster.com/family