In this Article

• Introduction to hurricane preparation
• What are hurricane aftermath health concerns?
• How can I store food safely?
• How can I make sure our water is safe?
• How do I perform first aid for injuries?
• How should I clean mold from my house?
• How can I prevent injuries after a hurricane?
• Wear protective gear
• Beware of electrical hazards
• Avoid carbon monoxide
• Prevent musculoskeletal injuries
• Beware of structural instability
• Avoid hazardous materials
• Be prepared for fires
• Prevent drowning
• Reduce the risk of thermal stress
• Prevent fatigue-related injuries
• What can I do to cope with stress after a hurricane?
• How do I deal with wild and domestic animals in a disaster?
• Hurricane Preparedness Glossary
• Hurricane Preparedness Index

How do I deal with wild and domestic animals in a disaster?

Be cautious of wild or stray animals. They may be disoriented and dangerous following a hurricane or flood. Try to confine the animal without getting at risk of being bitten. Call the Animal Control agency in your county.

Wild and domestic animals may escape or be killed in disasters. Escaped animals may wander onto land where they could:

• contaminate water supplies
  
  
• cause a build-up of manure
  
  
• overgraze sensitive ecosystems
  
  
• cause damage to crops

Decaying carcasses create biologic waste and attract flies and rodents, which can spread disease. They may also contaminate groundwater and cause bad odors.

Animal carcasses should be disposed of as soon as possible to avoid creating a health hazard to animals or humans.

Contact your local animal control department or local health department for specific disposal guidance.

Reference: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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