Are you ready to evacuate with your family -- pets included -- in case of a disaster? If you're not sure, take some time to visit the Ready.gov Web site's special section on pets (www.ready.gov/america/getakit/pets.html).

The federal government site offers a video overview of what's needed, plus a downloadable brochure that can be printed out at home. Guidance on what to think of and have on hand in advance is laid out in simple, concise terms.

In recent years -- most notably in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina -- we've learned to respect how strong the bond is that people share with their pets. Providing for these animals keeps everyone safer, since many people won't look after themselves until they know their pets are OK, too.