Preparing seniors for an emergency

Many of us, regardless of age are really unprepared to last 72 hours on our own. People with a well thought out emergency plan will respond better to these situations.

Research shows that people over 60 are more likely to be injured or killed in a disaster.

Why? Studies say that they are the least informed of an impending disaster. Reduced mobility, dependence on others, an unwillingness to leave home, and a reluctance to ask for help puts seniors at a higher risk.

The truth is many seniors are often unfamiliar with safe and efficient emergency procedures. Simply planning ahead can avoid long waits for help and critical supplies. Anticipating individual needs and challenges in the unfortunate event of power outages, ice storms, floods, chemical spills or other disaster can avert injury.

The most important task for seniors, especially those living alone, is to develop an emergency support network. Decide on two to three people who live in your area to be part of this system. Do not rely on one person only. They must also be dependable and have the physical ability to get to you should the phone lines be down or transportation routes be compromised.

Plan with these people what you would need and how you want it done in advance. This is particularly important for those who rely on oxygen, insulin or other life-sustaining medications. You want to ensure at a moment’s notice that you have what you need if you must leave your home.

Plan the conditions around when they will contact you. A simple power failure for any length of time will leave many frailer seniors in an unsafe situation.

Have a container prepared with necessary items you would need should you have to evacuate. Some of the things you might chose would include a first aid kit, bottles of water, reading material, a change of clothes, medication, flashlight and batteries and any other items you absolutely need. You should also take with you pertinent health information such as a list of prescriptions, health conditions, allergies and contact numbers. A Vial of Life would be a perfect solution.

If the disaster leaves you in your home without power for a length of time, you will need to have a few things in place, too. Prepare for yourself a sealed waterproof container holding a battery-operated radio, flashlights and batteries, a manual can opener, canned food, a change of clothing, cash, at least a weeks worth of extra medication, hearing aid batteries and activities to keep yourself busy.

Be sure you know how find the dwelling’s electrical box and that you can shut off oil and water. Keep a good supply of safe drinking water available. And keep in mind that candles and kerosene lanterns are not a safe alternative.

Seniors should have a list of important contact numbers posted on the fridge or near the phone at all times. Have extra bottles of ice in the freezer should you need to keep insulin and other medication cold if the power goes out.

Make arrangements for your pets in advance. Have food and medication they might need ready to go with them.

For more information or to get a Vial of Life, call Dawn Thomas at 245-2579.

Dawn Thomas is Seniors’ Safety coordinator for the Town and Municipality of Digby