Research is providing useful tips that people can use to prepare for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, including how to keep their pets and animals safe.
Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia, said research-based tips will help ensure all members of the family, including pets and animals, are better prepared for when Tropical Cyclone Alfred is predicted to make landfall later this week.
“Our research after the 2022 south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales floods showed that of the more than of the 600 people researchers spoke to, more than 70% were pet owners. Evidence demonstrates that owning animals influences people’s behaviour during an emergency.
“Following previous emergencies, people reported placing themselves in danger to protect their animals. This can be avoided through early preparation and action,” Andrew said.
Research-informed reminders can help ensure the entire family is considered in your emergency plans, including:
- Know what you need to prepare and take for your animals – consider food and water, collars, leads, medication, toileting, bedding, toys and treats.
- Know how you will contain and transport your pet(s) – do you have an appropriate carrier or crate and is your animal comfortable with it?
- Know what specific needs your animal may have if you need to evacuate – like people, all animals are unique and have different travel needs
- Know when you will leave – animals can sense stress so preparing animals earlier, including putting them in their travel crate or carrier, will help timely evacuation.
- Know where you will take your animals – if accessing an evacuation centre, check they can accommodate and are suitable for animals.
- Know how you and your pets will get to your chosen safe place – plan evacuation routes and have alternative options as roads may be closed.
It is not just about pets. Assistance animals, farm animals and livestock should also be planned for according to Andrew.
“If you rely on an assistance animal and advised to evacuate, make sure you have their halter and lead clearly showing they are a service animal.
“Livestock, farm animals and horses also need to be considered in emergency planning whether on your property or are kept elsewhere.
“We know animals are family. Being prepared and taking early action can ensure everyone is safe – you, your family and your animals,” Andrew said.