Living in South Australia, we know how unpredictable bushfire season can be. The combination of warm, dry conditions and strong winds can rapidly increase fire dangers in this region. While we often think about protecting our homes, it’s crucial to remember that our pets rely on us for their safety and wellbeing. By creating a comprehensive bushfire plan that includes your pets, you can help ensure a better outcome for your entire family should a fire threaten your area.
1. Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit
A solid bushfire plan should go beyond general household preparedness and include a detailed strategy for your pets. A pet emergency kit ensures you’re ready to act quickly if bushfires threaten. This should include:
- Evacuation Kit: Prepare a grab-and-go kit for each pet. Include food, water, bowls, leash or carrier, bedding, medications, and copies of vaccination or microchip documents.
- Identification: Ensure pets have up-to-date microchips and wear collars with contact details. In the event you’re separated, quick identification can help reunite you.
- Safe Shelter Arrangements: If you plan to leave early in case of a fire, identify pet-friendly accommodation options, whether that’s with friends, family, or a boarding facility in a safer zone.
Keep this kit in an easily accessible spot so you can grab it on your way out the door.
2. Make an Evacuation Plan
The South Australian CFS recommends planning evacuation routes and pet-friendly destinations in advance. Not all evacuation centres allow pets, so research pet-friendly accommodations or ask friends and family outside of high-risk areas if they can help.
Practise evacuating with your pets to ensure they’re comfortable and less stressed during a real emergency.
3. Stay Alert to Fire Warnings
South Australians can rely on the CFS website, Alert SA app, and local radio stations for up-to-date fire danger warnings. On high-risk days:
- Keep your pets indoors or in a secure area close to your home.
- Have their carrier or leash ready for immediate evacuation.
- Monitor conditions closely and act early if your area is under threat.
4. Plan for Staying at Home if Evacuation Isn’t Possible
In a bushfire emergency, evacuation is always the safest option for you and your pets. However, if circumstances prevent evacuation, it’s essential to have a plan to protect your pets at home. This plan should include measures for both indoor and outdoor pets, ensuring their safety as much as possible in extreme conditions.
If Pets Must Be Left Indoors
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Choose a Safe Room:
- Select a secure room in the house, such as a bathroom, laundry, or garage, with minimal windows and no external doors.
- Ensure the room is well-ventilated but protected from external smoke and heat.
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Provide Food and Water:
- Leave enough food and water for at least 3–5 days.
- Use spill-proof containers and consider using elevated dishes to prevent contamination.
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Minimise Stress:
- Include familiar items like bedding, toys, or blankets to provide comfort.
- Leave a radio or other familiar noise at low volume to reduce stress.
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Post Clear Notices:
- Place a notice on your front door or property gate indicating that pets are inside, along with their number and type. This helps emergency responders identify them quickly.
If Pets Must Be Left Outdoors
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Secure an Enclosure:
- Place pets in a safe, secure, open area away from potential hazards like trees, sheds, or combustible materials.
- Avoid tethering animals as this can trap them in dangerous situations.
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Provide Food and Water:
- Leave large containers of fresh water in shaded areas, ensuring they cannot tip over.
- Avoid metal dishes, as they can become extremely hot and burn your pet.
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Protective Measures:
- Ensure shaded areas are available to provide some relief from heat.
- Leave gates or enclosures open if possible so pets can escape if necessary.
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Post Clear Notices:
- Place a sign in a visible location indicating the number and type of animals on the property. Include your contact details so emergency responders can reach you.
Resources for South Australian Pet Owners
For more detailed guidance, visit:
