Preparedness Tips for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas. Older adults may have specific needs after a disaster.
Pet and Animal Preparedness
Your pet is an important member of your household. Unfortunately, animals are also affected by disaster. Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals during an emergency. Some ideas: develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for your pets if you are unable to do so.
Build a Kit
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. An emergency kit with food and supplies is vital to sustaining you and your family after a disaster. You may need to prepare multiple kits. Preparedness kits should be checked at least every six months or when items expire. In addition to supplies, kits may contain copies of identification, insurance documents, personal contact information, and list of medications.
Prepare for Hurricanes
Hurricanes can pack a powerful punch. In addition to damaging winds, flooding is also a major risk of hurricanes. Storm surge historically is the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the United States
