Emergency Readiness Β· Module 15

When Things Go Wrong

Call first. Get safe. Stay calm.

12 min

See the whole process

01

Call now

911 for fire or break-in; manager for pet illness or escape.

02

Stay calm

Convey who, where, what happened, and what is safe now.

03

Get stable

Prioritize your safety and the pets without exceeding training.

04

Document later

Use Slack and written records after direct contact and safety.

By the end, you can…

  • βœ“ Protect immediate safety.
  • βœ“ Escalate without delay.
  • βœ“ Preserve an accurate record.

The big idea

A true emergency includes a pet having a seizure, an escaped pet, a fire, a break-in, or another immediate threat to a person, pet, or property. Do not post in Slack and wait for an answer. Call 911 for a fire, break-in, or danger requiring public emergency services. Immediately call your manager for a pet illness, seizure, or escaped pet.

Try to remain calm and clearly explain who and where you are, what is happening, what is safe right now, and what help you need. Then prioritize getting yourself and the pets as safe and stable as possible without exceeding your training.

Watch out

A common mistake is posting an emergency in Slack and waiting for someone to notice or reply.

Wags tip

Call first. Slack and written documentation come after immediate safety and direct contact.

Ready-to-use takeaway

Use a calm framework for pet, people, property, and access emergencies.

Knowledge check

What comes first in S.A.F.R.?