Hurricane Evac with Fish?

Asyr

So Hurricane Issac is headed for the gulf coast and there is a possibility that we might have to evacuate. Should I take my fish and snail or leave them here? I'm worried if the power goes out and the filter stops running that they could get sick or die.
My thoughts were to get a battery powered air pump and a sponge filter to put in one of my five gallon buckets that I use for water changes. Would fill the other 5 gallon with our water to use for small water changes.

If we don't have to evacuate, but we lose power what should I do?

I know I'm probably being overly paranoid, but I just want to have as much information in either case.

Thanks guys :D

thekoimaiden

You're not paranoid. You could potentially be without power for a few weeks. You've got the right idea to get a sponge filter and a batter-powered pump (those can be found in the fishing section of a local outdoors or sports store as bait bucket aerators). Put the sponge filter in now and let the BB begin to colonize it. When the power goes out turn on the battery-powered pump.

As far as evacuating, I really can't speak to that. If I had to leave, I would leave my fish. I think the stress of the move would be worse than them trying to ride it out. But it also depends on where your house is. If leaving them means their death, then I would at least try to take them. But I would be worried about keeping the water warm.

Olympia

Is it just a betta and a mystery snail? Shouldn't be too hard to move them if you have to.

Asyr

I'm probably going to pick up the filter and air pump tomorrow. So I should put it in the tank and just let it float? I currently have an aquaclear filter with biomax in it that I was considering adding to the bucket if we have to leave. And I also dose with Seachem's Stability, since I've been adding a few more fish, so I could add that also.
The tank stays about 78-80 degrees without a heater, so I would only worry about it climbing higher than that cuz it gets pretty hot in Florida. I'm not too terribly close to the water, so flooding shouldn't be a problem, just a power outage.

My tank is pretty heavily planted, so I'm not too worried about ammonia spikes.

I have the betta, mystery snail, and 6 Zebra Danio (I guess I should update my sig LOL).

jaysee

When I had to evacuate last year, I took a few spare tanks and my favorite fish with me.

I would do as you planned - the 5 gallon bucket will be just fine. BUT, I think if you were to leave them that they would be fine as well.

thekoimaiden

The sponge filter will actually adhere to the glass. Just put it where you want it and hook everything up. It's also a good idea to stop feeding the fish. Less poop means less ammonia.

Asyr

Well I searched my local pet store and wal-mart and could not find a pump or sponge filter.
It doesn't look like to storm is going to be as bad as they thought anyways, so I guess I won't worry about it too much.
I am going to check Petsmart after work tomorrow in case the weather changes again, just to be safe.

Thanks for all the info though :D

jaysee

I would go to a bait and tackle shop (or fishing department) for a battery powered air pump.

Olympia

Glad it's not going to be as bad for you. Stay safe!

Asyr

Thanks everyone :D

We barely got any rain... that was the least exciting "hurricane" ever (atleast where I am... I doubt the people in New Orleans feel that way )

But now I know what I need to do next time