The recent deadly wildfires in California have been a reminder how important it is that pet owners have an evacuation plan for themselves and their animals. The American Humane Association recently published a list of precautions to help pet owners cope with disaster of any kind.

The No. 1 tip: Plan ahead.

Here’s how:

¢ Designate a member of the family to be in charge of gathering the pets in case of fire or other calamity.

¢ Prepare an emergency kit of leashes, food, medicines, bottled water and copies of vaccinations and keep it in a waterproof bag near your pet carrier.

¢ Make sure your pet’s collar has up-to-date emergency cell phone numbers on it.

¢ Have a list of shelters and boarding facilities nearby that might take pets if evacuation is needed; some evacuation centers will not take pets.

¢ Consider getting a sign for a front window alerting rescuers and other emergency personnel that a pet resides there.