For Seniors: Planning Ahead
Preparing for an Emergency
When disasters strike without warning, older adults can be especially vulnerable in the situation. Seniors can help to ensure their safety by:
- Having an emergency kit at home ready to take with you in case you need to evacuate or shelter-in-place
- Knowing the location and phone numbers of your local emergency management and American Red Cross offices
- Listing the style and serial number of medical devices such as pacemakers
- Planning for transportation if case of evacuation
- Filling prescriptions before they run out
- Knowing the telephone number for 24-hour pharmacy emergencies
- Posting emergency phone numbers near the phone
- Keeping a copy of important contact numbers and medical information in your wallet
- Planning and practicing the best escape routes from your home
For Seniors: Staying in Touch
Tips
Keep in touch with your family and neighbors by:
- Establishing relationships with nearby neighbors before an emergency or disaster happens
- Sharing your emergency contact and medical information with family, neighbors, apartment building manager, or condo association
- Creating a contact list of your neighbor's information
- Arranging for someone to check on you
- Teaching those who may need to assist you how to operate necessary equipment
- Planning ahead with your home health care services agency
- Notifying local police, fire, and rescue responders of special needs or mobility issues