Flash Flooding
Be Prepared to Save Yourself and Your Pup
By Camp Bow Wow
​
We all watched with grief over the July 4th holiday weekend as people and property were swept away by flash flooding in the Hill Country. Tragedies like this prompt us to learn what we can do to protect our loved ones and furry family members.
One way you can prepare today is to make sure your dog’s microchip number is up to date. The information the company has on file is what they’ll use to reunite you with your precious pup should you be separated. The chip won’t help if you’ve moved or changed your phone number or email. You also should list a backup contact in case an entire region is affected or has lost power.
Make sure Fido’s vaccinations are up to date and you have access to his veterinarian, microchip number and shot records before trouble happens. If you need to take your pup to an emergency shelter, most require proof before they accept a guest. You can take a picture and store the information on your phone, so you’ll always have it on hand. The same applies to your microchip information. Many vets keep digital records, so download your vet’s app and know your current password so you can access updates from any location.
If the worst happens, and you are affected by unexpected water, use the resources available to you to get your family members and pets to safety. News4SA reported on Monday, July 7, how Diana Smith was able to save herself and her two shepherd-mix pups by getting on a kayak with them. Had she instead chosen to try to run to her car, they might not have survived.
Never drive through a flooded street. Only a foot of water can sweep a vehicle – even a large SUV – off the road, and six inches of moving water can potentially knock a person off their feet, according to FEMA. Floodwater depth is not always obvious and can be tremendously dangerous. Once a vehicle becomes buoyant, the water will begin to push it sideways, which often causes it to roll and trap those inside as it washes downstream. If you find yourself caught by rushing water in a car, take these steps to free yourself and loved ones with you.
Unbuckle your seatbelt. Don’t try to open the door. Don’t roll down the windows unless the water level is obviously below their opening and you can exit that way. If so, roll them down quickly before the car’s electrical system shorts.
If the water is above the window level, remove your headrest and use the metal tips to smash the rear windshield, allowing all inside to escape from the vehicle. Rear windows are designed to kick out. Also, the rear of most vehicles will float the longest. The back window will be your fastest, safest way out.
Before water rises, take flood warnings seriously. It’s wise to have emergency supplies for you and your pup readily accessible in case you suddenly need to evacuate. Include food (yours and Fido’s) for a few days, water and medicines. You’ll want first aid, a backup leash, collar, ID tag, and extra towels in case anyone gets wet or dirty. You can also place an air tag on your pup’s collar so you’ll be able to track his location with your phone in real time should you
get separated.
It's almost impossible to predict when disaster might strike, but by updating the things you can before a problem occurs and keeping yourself alert and educated, you’ll give yourself the best chance you and your family members, furry and human, survive the situation.
