Hurricane Preparedness Kit for The Elderly
This weekend’s brush with Tropical Storm Gordon left us with little doubt that the active storm season is now upon us. Just one year ago we were all preparing for Hurricane Irma’s imminent arrival, and the memory of that has many checking the supplies in their hurricane box. Hurricane preparedness is extremely important for the elderly, so we wanted to help you get your preparedness kit ready.
Below are items to make sure you have in your Hurricane Preparedness Kit for the Elderly:
- One gallon of water per day. Electrolyte beverages are a good source of hydration.
- Foods ready to eat and not perishable, preferably rich in B12 vitamin and low in sodium. Vitamin supplements can help prevent nutritional deficiencies.
- Blankets, extra clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Spare eyeglasses, catheters, batteries, oxygen systems, etc.
- Cell phone with charger and extra batteries
- First-aid kit, medical insurance and Medicaid/Medicare cards.
- Prescription medicines and copies of prescriptions that can be refilled for up to six months.
- Medical-alert tags or bracelets with information about healthcare needs.
- An emergency-contact list to reach family and friends.
- Plenty of extra cash, since access to banks and ATMs may be limited.
- Copies of family records and other important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, Social Security cards, passports, wills, deeds, and financial, insurance and
- Immunizations records — all stashed in a sealed, waterproof bag.
- A battery-powered radio and/or a NOAA weather radio.
- A solar or battery-operated flashlight.
- A whistle to call for help and a small mirror to reflect sunlight in case you have to signal rescue teams.
For a more detailed checklist, download our Hurricane Checklist .
If you find yourself needing to move to a shelter during the storm…
- Take what you can carry from your readiness kit.
- Notify management of any needs you may have.
- Let your family and out-of-town contacts know where you are sheltering or where you will be staying during the storm.
- Make arrangements for your pets’ care.
We also have a List Of Local Shelters in case you need to make arrangements for you or your loved ones.
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes can be devastating events for the unprepared. Be sure you and your loved ones are ready when the next storm arrives.
