Seniors today are healthier and more independent than ever before. As many older people continue to live in their own homes, seniors and their families need to take special care for disaster preparedness. You can survive an emergency situation, and stay safe and healthy.
Non-Perishable Food And Water
If you cannot leave home during an emergency, you will need fresh water and food. It is recommended you plan at least one gallon of water per day. Store water in lightweight, sealed containers. You should also purchase a supply of water filter straws.
The food you store can be either MRE’s or individual products. Meals Ready to Eat are available with many different products. They are easy to store, require little to no preparation, and can be stored for years.
If you prefer individual products, choose foods that can be eaten directly from the cans or jars. You may not have access to a stove or microwave. In addition to food for meals, purchase unbreakable containers of juice, and nutritious snacks. Energy bars, protein bars, and granola bars are some examples.
Supplies For Your Health
You can purchase a ready-made First Aid kit. You can add additional supplies to the kit. It should include antiseptic wipes, bandages, band-aids, and similar products.
There are toiletries you need every day. Have a toothbrush and toothpaste, or denture cleaners. Toilet paper, deodorant, and mouthwash are some examples. Check your bathroom to see which products you use daily.
You need your prescription medications, and over the counter medications. Aspirin or non-aspirin pain relievers, cold and flu medication, laxatives, and vitamins are some of the common health supplies to keep in your kit.
Documents And Related Information
You will need copies of your birth certificate, marriage license, proof of rental or home ownership, proof of your bank accounts, and car ownership documents.
You should have emergency information in your wallet at all times. The card should list your emergency contacts, medical conditions you have, and medications you take regularly.
Supplies For Your Home And Car
During an emergency, you need to keep your home clean and your car running. The best cleaning supplies include bleach, other disinfectants, cleaning clothes, and buckets. You can keep a tool kit in your car.
Your cell phone should always be completely charged. If you do not have electricity during an emergency situation, you will need fresh batteries for battery-operated flashlights and radios. Instead of candles or kerosene lamps, have battery-operated lamps in your home.
Supplies For Your Pets
Your pets need to stay healthy and safe, too. When you are storing supplies for yourself, do not forget pet food, medications your pet takes, leashes, collars, and pet toys. You will need your pet’s license, and proof of his vaccinations.
Supplies For Entertainment
While some emergencies can be long-term and serious, a short-term issue such as a power failure is another possibility. When you have reading material, puzzles, or games you can play by yourself, you will be prepared for any situation.
Your Support Network
It is easier to make it through an emergency situation when you are not alone. Even if no one else lives in your home, you can benefit from a support network. This can include your family members, friends, neighbors, and your doctor.
Discuss disaster preparedness with your network in advance. You need to know you can rely on them for help. Keep their names and numbers in your cell phone and in your wallet.
You should also have the name and number of the nearest shelter. In some areas, emergency shelter is provided by the Red Cross. If there is a Red Cross in your town or city, contact them for information. Depending on the situation, you may be able to obtain transportation from your home to a shelter.
An emergency situation can be frightening, especially for seniors who live alone. Disaster preparedness can turn a dangerous situation into an experience that you can manage with little difficulty.
The best approach is to make a checklist of all the necessary supplies. Keep supplies in your home and in your car. Talk to your support network about the precautions you are taking, and you can be ready for any emergency that occurs.