On average, the continental US is hit with three major hurricanes (category 3 or above) each year. Storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and high winds are among the many hurricane hazards we can expect annually.
Emergencies, such as a hurricane, present special challenges for older Americans. Sudden evacuation, the destruction of personal property, and lack of availability of basic resources can pose a threat to seniors and those with chronic health conditions. When a disaster occurs, personal needs such as replacing medications and medical equipment may not be met right away.
Here is a guide to assembling an emergency kit to ensure you are prepared to care for your elderly loved one when a storm strikes.
Hurricane emergency kit essentials for Seniors:
1. A three day supply of:
– Nonperishable food, including canned and dried items
– Water (one gallon per person, per day)
2. Copies of important documents in a waterproof container:
– Medical documentation, including insurance cards, emergency contact information, prescriptions, Medicare/Medicaid cards
– Photos IDs
– Marriage and birth certificates
– List of style and serial number of medical devices
3. Two week supply of prescription medications
4. Assistive devices, such as a walker or wheelchair
5. Medical devices (pacemaker, blood sugar meter)
6. Battery-operated or crank-powered radio
7. Manual can opener
8. Cash and coins on hand
9. Flashlight
10. Extra batteries (for flash light, all medical device types and hearing aids)
11. Bedding, particularly a blanket
12. A change of dry clothes and shoes
13. Sanitation and hygiene items (toilet paper, feminine products, hand sanitizer)
14. Plastic garbage bags
15. Mosquito repellent [especially important given the rise of West Nile cases among the elderly.]
16. First Aid Kit
17. Matches in waterproof container
18. Cell phone with an extra battery and charger (s)
19. Whistle (to attract the attention of emergency personnel)
20. A map of the area
21. Pet supplies
22. Items to entertain or comfort in a stressful situation (deck of cards, a plush stuffed animal)
For more information on hurricane preparedness or for help creating an emergency evacuation plan, visit Ready.gov.