Leaving Pets Safely Home Alone
Ohana means family.
Thirty rescued cats and dogs were taken by fire in Sta. Mesa, Manila last August 21, 2022, Philippine Star reported.
Accidents like this happen and emergencies arise from those. Of course, in times like this, our fight or flight instinct kicks in, then we go and try to prioritize and save ourselves. In the process of doing so, we tend to forget everything else – and it’s so sad to see cases of casualties, especially of those who depend on us.
I am a fur-parent myself and I consider my fur-babies as family. In fact, apart from myself and my kin, I also prioritize their safety and well-being. God forbid that should an emergency arise, I already have a plan on how to put us to safety.
PREP – preparation is always necessary to be able to successfully execute anything. It is also necessary to prevent casualties and save lives. Keep you, your family and your fur-babies safe during emergencies in these easy steps:
- Prepare
Prepare an emergency kit at home. Be it a backpack, a sling bag or whatnot, keep important documents, ready-to-eat goods, first aid materials, emergency numbers, flashlight, extra batteries and even a powerbank in it. When an emergency arises, grab the bag with you.
Prepare your exit route, your evacuation plan, and everything else, as well. But, most importantly, prepare backup plans – just in case.
- Recon (Reconnaissance)
Recon means you survey and explore all options. This is done during the emergency and it is a vital part of your plan. Calculate your every move. You don’t want to cut short or go too overboard. Maintain presence of mind, see through every possible option and go for the best one. However, when in doubt, just be sane enough to assure the safety of yourself and those you care about.
- Exit
NEVER block any possible exit – any of those might save your life. Make sure that you have ease of access to all exit points. If, by chance, the emergency happens when you are away from your loved ones – be it your parents, relatives, children or your fur-babies – then make sure to give them the best chance to fend for themselves and escape to safety.
- Pray
One little prayer can do so much. Belief systems are proven quite useful in times of distress. They give hope and adrenalin, just enough juice to keep your brain working. A prayer is universal – it doesn’t matter if you’re praying to God, to Buddha, to the universe, or to whoever entity. Pray and work your way to safety.
These are just four simple steps which go a long way – even as far as saving lives and property. Of course, more than an emergency plan, preventive measures must be duly executed. By simply turning off any electrical devices, eradicating fire hazards and by habitually checking and rechecking things in your household, you could already assure the safety and lives of your family.Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten. Act now and don’t regret.
