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Community Preparedness
Should an emergency shelter be opened, information will be broadcast over Chesterfield Alert, county social media accounts and local media reports.
If you evacuate to a shelter, please plan accordingly by bringing the items below.
Items to Bring with You
- A list of allergies, medical conditions and medications currently taking
- At least a three- to five-day supply of medications
- Change of clothing and footwear
- Comfort items such as a special blanket, pillow, etc.
- Contact lenses or an extra pair of glasses
- Personal entertainment, such as:
- Books
- Cards
- Handheld video games with extra batteries
- Sanitation supplies including:
- Personal hygiene supplies
- Plastic garbage bags
- Soap
- Toilet paper
- Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members such as:
- Baby food, walkers
- Canes
- Disposable diapers
- Familiar comfort items
Pets
Pets may be lost, injured or killed during a disaster. Family disaster plans need to include the family pets.
Preparedness Tips
- Keep a pet disaster kit on hand for each pet in the household including:
- A week's emergency supply of pet food, water, and other essential support items
- Comfort toys
- Medical records, especially proof of rabies vaccination
- Medications, vitamins
- Pet first aid kit and first aid book
- I.D. tags, microchips, leg bands, or tattoos help reunite separated pets and owners.
- When transporting your cat during disasters make sure they are contained in a pet carrier to prevent injury or escapes.
- Take several pictures of your animals and keep them with your important papers.
- If your regular veterinarian does not have a disaster plan locate one who does.
- If you use a "pet sitter" while on vacation, discuss disaster plans and evacuation sites.
Pets in Emergency Shelters
In Chesterfield County, pets brought to emergency shelters are taken to the county's animal shelter and will be cared for, in an area separate from the daily animal population, until it is safe for residents to take their pets home.
Wildlife
Wildlife is often displaced, injured or killed in a disaster. You can call ARK Hotline at 804-598-8380 for more information.
Because senior citizens and citizens with special needs may have additional needs during and after a disaster, several websites have been identified. The following websites assist special groups with readiness.
For more information, call Senior Connections, 804-748-1133.