HURRICANE IRENE IS LARGE AND POWERFUL
Irene is in the central Bahamas and could strengthen even more as it moves toward the U.S. Irene could have destructive impacts on more than 55 million people from North Carolina to Maine.
Hurricane Preparedness for Your Pets
Every hurricane season at The Weather Channel and weather.com, we talk about hurricane preparedness. However, humans aren't the only ones that need to be prepared for during inclement weather. Pet owners should have an emergency plan that includes the safety of their animals, and always be informed about the potential for evacuation in their area.
More than 358 million pets reside in 63 percent of American households. According to a Zogby International poll, 61 percent of pet owners will not evacuate if they cannot bring their pets with them.
"It is crucial that residents are prepared to take pets with them if asked to evacuate in the face of this potentially destructive storm," advised Laura Bevan, Eastern regional director for The Humane Society of the United States. "If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets."
Don't get caught unprepared! Keep this list handy so you can be ready to evacuate your pets in case of an emergency
Food and water
Food and water are the easiest things to remember to pack, but how much should you bring and how does it need to be packed?
The Humane Society of the United States suggests bringing food and water for at least five days for each pet. If using canned food, don't forget a can opener! Dry food should be stored in an airtight, waterproof container.
