In Case of Weather Emergency

Inclement weather can occur any time of the year, but those of us living in the snow-and-ice belt are well aware of the need to be prepared:  we are likely to be snowed in at some point.  For family caregivers, coping with snow emergencies is about preparation.  Are we prepared…    

If we are trapped inside our homes for several days?  We will need:

• A 3-day supply of non-perishable foods (take care that these items are easy to open or that an easy-to-use manual can opener is) available.  You can build a food reserve easily and cheaply by purchasing a few extra, non-perishable foods that you and your family enjoy each time you go to the store.
• A 3 day supply of drinking water available (one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes).
• Backup portable oxygen tanks and the instructions for using them (practice using this vital equipment ahead of time).
• A personal cell phone and charger.
• A well-stocked first aid kit.
• Medications, medical supplies, special feeding supplies, incontinence supplies.
• Personal hygiene and daily living supplies (toilet paper, paper towels, soap and towels, reusable plastic bags, garbage bags, bag ties).
• Whistle or air horn to signal for help.
• Pet supplies, as appropriate.
• Cash reserve.  In a weather emergency you are unlikely to have access to ATM machines.  Having cash at hand will allow you to pay for home delivery services, shoveling, or other rescue services. 

If we lose our source of power for an extended period of time?  We will need:

• A light source. Flashlights are the safer than candles but keep extra batteries available (store batteries outside of the flashlight for longer battery life).
• A heat source. Generators and kerosene heaters are good sources but need to be operated per manufacturer’s recommendations. Practice prior to use is also recommended.  Wood burning fireplaces and stoves are another options but special care must be taken if oxygen is being used in the home or family members have respiratory problems.    
• A battery operated clock and radio.
• Blankets, fans, sleeping bags.
• Several days of clean clothes, underwear.  Coats, gloves, scarves, and additional socks.

If we have to suddenly leave our homes?  We will need:

• A contact person for special assistance to evacuate the home.
• Contact numbers for family, friends, doctors, health care treatment centers, personal identification and important documentation (birth certificate, social security card, Medicare, Medicaid, and additional insurance cards, driver’s license, life, auto and home insurance, bank records).
• Medication lists and medications.
• Cash and credit cards.
• Extra house keys (giving an extra set to a trusted friend or relative is helpful).
• Local street map, closest fire and police stations, schools, shelters.
• Clean clothes, underclothes, socks, shoes.
• Appropriate outdoor clothing, including boots.
• Personal hygiene products.
• Special supplies for daily hygiene, medical treatments, special equipment.
• A vehicle in good operating condition, with at least a ¼ tank of gas, window washing fluid, oil, snow removal brush, shovel.
• A meeting place and communication plan for keeping in touch with family and friends.  

 

How do you prepare and practice for weather emergencies?  Share your ideas here.