Everyone can benefit from having a household evacuation plan in place. It's the best way to protect your family in case of disaster, whether it's a large-scale natural catastrophe or an emergency that causes you to leave your home temporarily. Every disaster plan MUST include your pets.

Keep up-to-date identification on your dog or cat at all times. Make sure that the collar is properly fitted (avoid chain link collars for dogs and use breakaway collars for cats). It's a good idea to have a friend's or family member's phone number on your pet's identification tag in case you cannot be reached.

Have current color photographs of you and your pet, showing any distinguishing markings, with your emergency supplies. If you and your pet become separated, these photos will help identify him/her.

If you know a disaster is imminent, bring your pets inside immediately! Get your animals under control as quickly as possible, either on a leash or inside a carrier.

Disasters often strike suddenly, while you're away from home. You can improve your pet's chances for safety if you leave him/her inside, with collars and identification tags, when you go out. Consider an arrangement with a neighbor who would be willing to evacuate your pet in your absence. Make sure that person knows your animals, can locate your emergency supplies and has a key to your house. Provide him or her with instructions and phone numbers.

Place notices on your front door advising what pets are in the house and where they are located. Provide a telephone number where you or a contact can be reached as well as the name and number of your vet.