Yes — hurricane season is well underway but September seems to be the month that the crux of the action takes place. The Gulf of Mexico is always under tight scrutiny the minute a storm looks as if it may be heading towards the US. Of course it is understandable since many of the major storms have hit the coast (we know which ones) which is why is never too late to review guidelines to prepare for hurricane safety.
This is even more important if your aging parents live in areas of the country susceptible to hurricanes. That is why these five tips to prepare Texas seniors for hurricane safety are even more important.
Have a Plan in Place
Anyone who lives in “the zone” should always have a plan in place. The plan lays out everything from a list of provisions to stock (water, canned food, batteries, flashlights, etc.) to ensuring you have medication and anything you need to take. Also, know your evacuation route and have a destination in mind in the event of evacuation. Having this plan alleviates a lot of stress and provides details to help make the preparation much easier to manage. Throughout the year, add anything to the list as you think of them so that you have everything you need. Even if a hurricane dies out, it is not uncommon for storms to produce a lot of rain and flooding not to mention power outages making it is still worth it to have what you need to hunker down for a few days until the storm passes – medications, food, etc.
Check Medication
Once there is any kind of weather statement issued (even a watch), it is time to check medication to make sure there is enough to last a few days following a storm. It may turn out that you do not need it but it sure is a relief knowing if there is any flooding or power outages, your parents’ medications are handled.
Gather Documents and Important Information
Everyone needs to have their important information in a specific location but if you live in a hurricane prone area, it does not hurt idea to keep passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and any other important papers together all the time in a secure (and waterproof) case that is easily accessible.
Ask Neighbors Keep an Eye Out
If you do not live near your parents and they still live in their home, ask neighbors keep an eye out to make sure all is well. There is a lot to be said in knowing someone is looking out for your parents when you are unable to bring relief when you live in a different city.
Be Prepared to Leave
Living in an area prone to hurricanes often means that you should sometimes be prepared to leave at the drop of a hat due to flooding from or the potential of being hit by the storm. It is not that hard to prepare – a bag with clothes for a couple of days, medications, important papers, toiletries, and cash. Oh, and be sure to have a full tank of gas so that if evacuation is necessary, you do not have to wait in a long line to get gas.
Make Sure You Know the Plan
If your parents live in an independent community, make sure to know the plan set up in the community. They typically have emergency plans in place for fire, storms, hurricanes and other crises. With hurricanes, they may relocate residents to another facility which is something you need to know.
Prepare Before the Season Starts
If you prepare for a storm before the season starts, you can better ensure your parents safety and sleep better. But, if you have not prepared, there no better time than now. Nothing turns your stomach more than worrying at night about what can happen – it always seems so much worse. Knowing that your parents’ ducks are in a row before a storm is even named lets you to breathe easier.
Discovery Village at Dominion offers a variety of senior living programs to keep seniors healthy and active. Learn about our senior living options and amenities today when you contact us at 210.840.8000.
