Natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes always prove to be challenging. This is especially true for aging adults living with disabilities. For this reason, hurricane preparedness planning is vital and should be carefully followed.
Having a plan is very crucial for seniors living with disabilities. Aging adults need a basic disaster supply kit, same as everyone else plus some added supplies to cater for their unique needs.
Important Checklists for a Hurricane
Below are three very important things to check off your list in advance of a hurricane.
- Make Provision for a Safe Haven
One of the hardest decisions to make ahead of a hurricane is whether to stay back or to move away. An important question to ask yourself is, “Where will be my safe haven when the hurricane strikes?” Be very objective rather than sentimental when making this decision. Better still, have this conversation with family members and loved ones you can move with. Also consider creating an evacuation plan that covers transportation and Medicare support if you need it. Our retirement community is a great place to get started.
- Ready Your Medical Armor
You should consider drawing up a solid medical plan, especially if you already receive regular treatment for a chronic health condition. You will also need to speak with your healthcare provider about a backup plan. For example, what is your plan for medical assistance at your intended evacuation location?
Next, you want to get ready at least two to three weeks’ supply of prescriptions, medications and the like. Having important documents on hand is also a great idea. Keep files like your medical history, prescription slips, personal identity cards, social security cards, insurance policies, immunization records, health insurance, and contact information with you. Your medical kit is also a good place to put these in.
Speaking of medical kits, you should invest in one that is waterproof. In addition to the items listed above, you might want to add a blood sugar monitor, hearing aids, and such personal effects as you require. To protect yourself and others against flus, put some hand sanitizer, nose masks, wipes and disinfectants.
Another important thing to consider is getting a medical tag or bracelet. This is quite necessary if you have a condition that is likely to cause an emergency. The bracelet or tag will help the people around you, especially medical personnel identify and treat you correctly and without delay. Remember to pack additional supplies that are peculiar to your personal needs or that can support conditions that you know that you have. If you are not sure of what you should include in this regard, team members can help you out.
- Update Your General Stash
There are basic survival elements that you need for everyday use. As you prepare, stock-piling these items for later when you will need them the most. Put aside items like a two to three day supply of water and food, flashlights, clothing pieces, personal hygiene effects, cell phone, blanket or sleeping bag. You pack some books and magazines, whistle, and some money.
A basic supply kit can help you evacuate more quickly or support you as you hunker down from the storm. Basic supplies should be stored in an easily accessible and moveable container such as a suitcase or box with wheels. Recommended items include:
Hurricanes can be fiftful and tragic but it helps to know what to do to stay safe when they come. Knowing that we cannot avert natural disasters, the best line of action is to plan ahead and stay prepared. This way, you and your loved ones will keep safe.
