Preparing for emergencies?

[Bogertophis]

So glad you're all OK. How did you find out? This sounds like it was more than just your own alarm going off. (mine never has)

What I'd suggest is to have either ice chests (insulated) or sturdy styro-foam shipping boxes on hand, enough to hold whatever reptiles you have without overcrowding
or piling on top of each other. (you can put several together but it's best if they're similar size) You also need cloth bags or pillow cases (they don't have to be fancy-
you can even get some from a thrift store- just make sure there's no holes) and some longer twist ties (or zip ties) & rubber bands. If you keep these supplies together
& near your snakes, in a panic you'll save a lot of time. Also keep either chemical heat packs or empty plastic bottles (to put hot water in) for keeping warmth in the
"ice chests". Each snake needs to be bagged separately...it's a real hassle to tie a knot in cloth bags (the "old way") so I like to first use a twist wire to close the bag,
then double that part over itself & secure with a sturdy rubber band. Never had a snake get loose. I've used jars of hot water in a pinch to keep my snakes comfy in
their "ice boxes" during a 4 day power outage (ice storm), changing the water about every 8-9 hours. All my snakes were fine...none got sick or anything as a result.
I had a gas hot water heater so I had hot water available, but chemical heat packs would be good to have on hand too...just remember they can get hot, make sure the
snakes aren't in contact, & they will move around within their bags.

BTW, I've also moved across country with snakes, & anytime they're transported by car, they are bagged & ride inside ice chests (styro-
foam) boxes. Open periodically for air, put a small hole in the box for air circulation, or tape a small wad in the opening of the box so it
doesn't fully seal closed. It's important both for excessive cold or protection from heat too.