Prepare For Emergencies
With Tropical Storm Fay heading toward us I was reminded of how important it is to prepare for weather and other types of emergencies especially when you have a chronic illness.
Register for the Medical Needs Shelter in your area in advance of storms. Don’t think that you won’t be comfortable or you don’t need such a thing. If your home becomes flooded or unlivable due to damage or not having electricity, you’ll regret your decision. Some of us cannot live without air conditioning or refrigerated medication. It can take weeks for electricity to be turned on again. Register and go to the shelter if your area is told to evacuate. You can always leave when it’s safe to return home.
Have extra medications on hand. If you are able to have a month or more available, do so. Also keep a list in a plastic bag with all of your medical information including doctors’ names and phone numbers, diagnoses, medications, etc. Have another person keep the same with them. If you have a medical bracelet, call before hand and update your information.
Stock up on food that is nonperishable, nourishing and that you will eat in case you cannot cook at home. Also keep bottled water on hand. You may need extra if you are without electricity and it is very hot.
Make and keep a well stocked First Aid Kit. Don’t forget bug spray, hand sanitizer and baby wipes. Purchase batteries, flashlights, candles, and small battery powered fans. They can’t hurt!
If you stay home and a weather emergency occurs and you do not feel well, don’t wait to call an ambulance. It may take a lot longer for them to arrive due to the poor weather conditions.
Don’t get complacent. We in Florida have a tendency to think that we’re told about hurricanes and storms and nothing happens (depending on where you live). Don’t be surprised and end up getting sicker and hurt in the process.
