Orlando, Fla.—Our pets are the heart of our home, they make us laugh, get fit by walking them, they offer us great company, and in most cases they can even anticipate our moods and actions. During the storm season, they suffer a great amount of anxiety as they see us in the last minute hustle with preparations.
If you’re like most people, you consider your pets part of the family. Including them in your plans, and taking steps before a disaster strikes, will make it easier to keep the whole family together. In the event of a storm or hurricane, your family emergency plan should include considerations for your pets as well, not just to be sure they’re comfortable, but to ensure their safety too.
A good pet emergency kit should include the following:
- At least enough water for a week for you and your pets
- Nonperishable food (include a can opener if needed)
- Food dishes and water bowls
- Your pet’s medical records/proof of vaccination
- Prescription medications (two-week supply)
- ID tags on your pets’ collars or harnesses
- Solid pet carrier
- Cat litter and litter box
- Puppy pads
- Plastic bags or poop bags
- Extra leash
- Comfort items: pet bed, toys, treats
- Pet first aid kit
Also, DID YOU KNOW it is a good idea to place a pet emergency sticker outside the doors in your home and to keep a card in your wallet—both filled out with your contact information and your pets’ info should you decide to shelter in place? You should include the number and type of pets along with their coat color and names.
You must have a plan in place to make sure your pets are cared for in case something makes you unable to take care of them. Friends or family members might be able to help you establish a hurricane emergency action for your pets.
After an active 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an “above-average” 2022 Atlantic hurricane season. NOAA predicts 14 to 21 named storms, including three to six major hurricanes.
The 2022 hurricane season is the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. NOAA says there is a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.
This year is likely to have increased activity due to several climate factors, including:
- La Niña
- Warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea
- Weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds
- An enhanced West African monsoon
The official Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov. 30, but hurricanes and severe storms can form before or after.
Remember the importance of having your home and property adequately insured with enough coverage and deductibles that allow you to recover/rebuild easily in the event of damage.
Make sure to have in place your flood insurance, homeowners insurance, wind insurance and all your vehicles also well covered.
To protect your auto, home, and all other property talk to our local experienced agents at Orlando Insurance Center and let them know what your needs and priorities are. You will be presented with options from multiple insurance companies, and be able to compare rates as well as coverage to then determine your path to provide the best protection for you and your family. Give us a call today at (407) 680-1214— for an initial consultation and quotes from a myriad of insurance carriers who support us!
Iraida Pedroza, 2-20 Agent
OFFICE MANAGER
"Email me" <iraida [at] orlandoinsurancecenter [dot] com>
407-680-1214 ext. 500