Instructions
- Read the Scenario: You are the Lead Volunteer at the 'Safe Paws' Animal Shelter. A severe storm system is moving toward your town. You must lead the team through preparation, safety, and supply management.
- Complete Section 1: Match the weather vocabulary to the correct definitions to understand the incoming threat.
- Complete Section 2: Differentiate between storm alerts and safety procedures.
- Complete Section 3: Use the logistics table to organize shelter supplies.
- Complete Section 4: Answer the critical thinking scenario regarding emergency response.
- Optional Challenge: Complete the extension activity at the bottom if you finish early.
Section 1: The Meteorological Briefing
Before the storm hits, you need to understand the weather report. Match the term on the left with the correct definition on the right by writing the corresponding letter in the blank.
- ____ Anemometer
- ____ Barometric Pressure
- ____ Supercell
- ____ Humidity
- ____ Doppler Radar
A. A tracking system used to determine the location and velocity of a storm and precipitation. B. An instrument used to measure wind speed. C. The amount of water vapor present in the air. D. A large, rotating thunderstorm that can produce severe weather like tornadoes. E. The weight of the atmosphere pressing down on the earth; a sudden drop usually indicates an approaching storm.
Section 2: Storm Safety Protocols
In weather safety, words matter. Read the descriptions below and determine if they describe a Watch or a Warning.
-
Scenario A: The National Weather Service says conditions are favorable for a storm to develop. You should stay tuned to the news and have your supplies ready. This is a: __
-
Scenario B: A storm or tornado has actually been spotted or indicated by radar. It is moving toward your area. You must take cover immediately. This is a: __
Safety Checklist (Check the correct answer): If a tornado is approaching the animal shelter, where is the safest place to move the animals and staff? [ ] Near a large window to watch the storm's path. [ ] An interior room on the lowest floor, away from glass. [ ] Under a large tree in the outdoor play area.
Section 3: Shelter Supply Logistics
As the lead volunteer, you must ensure the animals have everything they need to stay safe and calm during the power outage and heavy rain. Fill out the logistics table below to categorize your needs.
| Category | Item | Purpose / Use |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Heavy Blankets | To provide warmth and reduce noise for anxious dogs. |
Section 4: Emergency Decision Making
Read the following situation and write a 2-3 sentence response on how you would handle it.
The Situation: The power has gone out at the shelter. One of the newer volunteers wants to open the back door to let some "fresh air" in because the cats are getting restless. The wind is currently gusting at 50 mph and there is heavy lightning.
Your Response:
Section 5: The Extension Challenge (Optional)
The "Go-Bag" Design: Most shelters recommend that pet owners have a "Go-Bag" ready. List three items that are specific to animals (not humans) that must be included in an emergency kit to ensure they can be identified if they get lost during a storm.
Answer Key
Section 1: Vocabulary
- B
- E
- D
- C
- A
Section 2: Safety Protocols
- Scenario A: Watch
- Scenario B: Warning
- Safety Checklist: An interior room on the lowest floor, away from glass.
Section 3: Logistics (Suggested Answers)
- Hydration: Clean Water (Bottled) - In case tap water becomes contaminated.
- Identification: Extra Collars/Tags - To ensure animals are identified if they escape.
- Medical: First Aid Kit - To treat minor injuries from debris or stress.
- Nutrition: Dry Food - Easy to store and serve without power/refrigeration.
- Sanitation: Puppy Pads/Litter - For animals that cannot go outside during the storm.
Section 4: Decision Making Acceptable answer: The volunteer should NOT open the door. High winds can cause structural damage or blow debris into the shelter, and the noise/lightning will further stress the animals. Safety requires keeping all exits sealed until the storm passes.
Section 5: Challenge
- Recent photos of the pet (to prove ownership).
- Medical records/Vaccination history (required by most emergency shelters).
- Microchip numbers and contact info for the microchip company.