Living in California means we face our share of natural disasters, earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, tsunamis, extreme heat, high winds, utility outages, poor air quality, and flooding. While we can’t prevent these disasters and emergencies, we can prepare our families, our pets, and our community, because when we are all ready, we are all safer.
Berkeley Humane, in partnership with Berkeley Ready and Berkeley Animal Care Services (BACS), hosted When the Unexpected Happens: Protecting our Pets and our Neighbors, a community webinar focused on disaster preparedness for pet owners. The event led by Jamie Albrecht, Emergency Services Coordinator for the City of Berkeley Fire Department, shared practical tools and strategies to help ensure every member of your family, two and four-legged, is ready when an emergency strikes.
Key Takeaways from the Webinar
- Identify three pet-friendly neighbors: Build a trusted network that can step in to help if you’re away or unable to reach home.
- Sign up for local emergency alerts: Get real-time notifications to stay informed and act quickly.
- Store essential supplies: Keep food, water, medications, leashes, carriers, and important documents ready to go.
- Plan pet-friendly evacuation locations: Know in advance where you can safely go with your pets.
- Practice leaving quickly: Run through your evacuation plan so everyone in your household knows what to do.
- Pet-proof your home: Reduce risks from falling objects, open windows, and other hazards that can arise during disasters.
Emergency and disaster preparedness isn’t just about being ready, it’s about peace of mind for you, safety for your pets, and building a network of neighbors who can support one another in times of need.
Missed the Event? Watch the Recording!
Couldn’t join us live? You can watch the full recording of When the Unexpected Happens Protecting our Pets and Neighbors.
Together, we can make sure no pet is left behind when the unexpected happens.
