Emergencies happen fast, and when they do it may take a while to receive assistance. This wait can be inconvenient and dangerous for those with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or other health needs that require regular attention and support. Planning ahead for resources you need helps ensure your safety and care during crucial times. Read on for tips to help you stay safe in different kinds of emergencies:
Natural disasters
When a natural disaster, like a hurricane or wildfire, occurs, it can be difficult to stock up on things you need on a regular basis, because people will be rushing to buy them as well. Putting together a small stash of necessary supplies (i.e. food, water, medications, back-up chargers/batteries) ahead of time can save you the stress and struggle of trying to find resources when there are few. It’s also important to know where you can go to stay safe if you choose to evacuate, or leave home. Plan how you will leave with any assistive technology you have, like an electric wheelchair or listening device, and how you will keep them charged. Check with local transit providers about accessible transportation options you may need. If you have a service or support animal, make sure the emergency transportation and shelter you’ve chosen allows pets for a smoother evacuation process. It is a good idea to set aside emergency funding too since some disasters can hold up mail or banking services normally used to access money.
Power outages
Power outages tend to be sudden, and it may take time before your electricity returns. If you use assistive technology devices to get around your home, communicate, or manage your health, it is important to keep a backup power source, like a battery or portable charger. Whichever you choose, make sure your backup power source is always charged so it is ready to use when you need it. Keep a flashlight and new batteries for it in a place you will remember, so you can easily see around your home until the lights come back on. Power outages can also make it difficult for loved ones to contact you using a phone or other communication device. In case this occurs, you may consider giving a house key to one of your trusted contacts beforehand, so they can easily and quickly get to you or your emergency supplies.
Stuck at home
Some emergencies require you to stay inside, like in the case of a snowstorm or heat wave. Keeping an emergency kit with items you know you will need can give you peace of mind while you wait out the emergency. Based on your needs, the following are items you may want to consider including in your kit:
- Prescription medicines (several days’ supply)
- Batteries/chargers for assistive devices (keep charged at all times)
- Copies of insurance and healthcare cards
- A backup supply of oxygen
- Mobility device, like a cane or walker
- Water and non-perishable foods
It also helps to have a support network to turn to for additional resources or assistance. This network may include family, friends, caregivers, neighbors, and others who live close-by.
Your readiness recap
- Set up a network: Keep a list of trusted contacts, including nearest medical facilities, in a safe place and add to it as needed. If you get regular medical treatments at a clinic or hospital, ask what their emergency plans are and work with them to find backup service providers.
- Keep extra supplies: When the unexpected strikes, it can be more difficult to access necessary items. Whether it’s supplies for basic needs (i.e. food, water, medications) or more specific needs (i.e. an extra cane/walker, backup oxygen supply), make sure you are stocked up.
- Make a plan: Knowing what you need and where you can go to stay safe will help you make the best emergency plan for your needs. You should also plan for how you will access any services and supports you use on a regular basis before, during, and after an emergency.
For older adults, people with disabilities, and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to prepare for emergencies and disasters. Having conversations with your loved ones or healthcare providers about taking precautions can help keep you safe and offer peace of mind to everyone involved. Remember to stay informed about alerts in your area, think about your needs, and then make a plan to protect yourself.
