Stay Safe, Stay Prepared: Essential Resources for You, Your Pets, and Wildlife
Emergency Helplines:
- FEMA Assistance: 1-800-621-3362 | disasterassistance.gov
- CalFire Information: 1-800-427-7623 | fire.ca.gov
- Local Animal Control: Contact your county’s animal services
- ASPCA Animal Disaster Hotline: 1-800-738-9437
- Red Cross Disaster Relief: 1-800-733-2767 | redcross.org
Tips for Evacuees with Pets:
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include pet food, water, medications, and comfort items.
- Evacuation Plan: Know pet-friendly shelters and have a transport carrier ready.
- Identification: Ensure pets have tags and are microchipped.
- Stay Informed: Follow local authorities for evacuation updates.
- Keep Pets Indoors: Limit exposure to smoke and ash.
How to Help Wild Animals Affected by Fires:
- Provide Water: Leave shallow dishes of clean water in shaded areas.
- Avoid Feeding: Wild animals have specialized diets; feeding can harm them.
- Create Safe Spaces: Leave out brush piles for temporary shelter.
- Report Injured Wildlife: Call the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-888-334-2258.
- Drive Carefully: Animals may be disoriented and crossing roads.
How You Can Help:
- Donate: Support organizations like the Red Cross, Humane Society, and local shelters.
- Volunteer: Assist at shelters, distribute supplies, or help with rescue efforts.
- Foster Pets: Temporarily house pets displaced by the fires.
- Spread Awareness: Share reliable resources on social media.
Stay safe and prepared!