Animal Shelters Evacuating Animals As Hurricane Florence Approach

Category 4 Hurricane Florence is heading towards the East Coast as early as Thursday evening. The wind ease slightly in the morning on Tuesday but it quickly speed up to 140 miles per hour shortly afterward. The storm is likely to remain dangerous during landfall.

Hurricane Florence has prompted more than 1 million people to flee Carolina and Virginia. However, they are not the only ones that are evacuating. The staff in the animal shelter are also getting ready to relocate the animals to a safe place.

Many animal shelters are looking for volunteers to an animal with them when they leave. They are also asking people to donate newspapers, and food. A Norfolk shelter, has managed to evacuate 8 dogs and 18 cats to another animal shelter in Washington D.C. The animals will stay for a temporary period in the animal shelter in Washington D.C. until they are claimed by the owners.

Pet owners should take into consideration the needs of their pets in their disaster plans even though there are animal organizations that are ready to provide assistance. Pets with no one to take them may become missing and end up as strays by the time the owner comes back. If you are a pet owner, make sure your pet wear ID tag. You should also prepare an emergency kit for your pet that contains essentials such as food, water, and first aids.

There are also animals shelters that have taken up animals from shelters located in places that receive evacuation orders. Greenville Humane Society is full house with more than 200 animals onboard as it has taken in more than 60 animals from animals shelters situated in low areas. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has helped to rescue 37,000 animals in 2017.

Joe Elmore, CEO of the Charleston Animal Society revealed that they spent roughly $120k last year for preparation against Hurricane Harvey, Irma and Maria. There are lots of expenses to prepare the animals for the hurricane, for example, the cost of transporting the animal out of Florida.

Last year, they had to use a 12 year old trailer to transport hundreds of animals to safety. Fortunately, this spring, they had acquired a new trailer to transport the animals. The new trailer costs about $650K and is equipped with generators to maintain a cool temperature. Charleston has around 100 staff and 700 volunteers.

Hurricane Florence is giving HSUS Animal Rescue team a busy team in helping animal shelters to relocate. They have helped 25 animal shelters to get the animals mobilized within a few hours of requesting for help.

  • Frequently Asked Questions about Water and Flood Damage Cleanup

    What type of cleanup is involved after a flood?

    Heavy-duty cleaning is usually required after a flood. This may include cleaning with industrial-strength cleaners and specialized equipment.

    How do you clean flood damaged items?

    You can clean flood damaged items with a variety of methods, depending on the item. For example, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove water from carpets and upholstery. You can also use a mop and bucket to remove water from floors.

    How do you clean concrete after a flooding?

    If the concrete was only wet, you can let it dry and then sweep or hose it off. If it was covered in mud or other debris, you will need to power wash it.

    What to spray in the basement after flooding to remove odors and prevent mold growth?

    Mold and mildew can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after flooding. To prevent mold growth, spray a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water throughout the basement.

    How do you deodorize a basement after a flood?

    You can use a combination of baking soda and vinegar to deodorize a basement after a flood.

    How long should you run dehumidifier after a flood?

    It is recommended to run a dehumidifier for three to five days after a flood. The length of time will depend on other factors such as the type of materials impacted by water damage, the temperature and the strength of the dehumidifier.

    How do you dry a floor after a flood?

    Mop the floor with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible. Place fans around the room to help circulate air and speed up the drying process. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter the room.