For many people, summer is a time for backyard barbeques and trips to the beach. But summer is also a time when warm temperatures cause intense weather, which we know as Floridians can include hurricanes.
From June until the end of November, hurricane season is a concern for millions of people. And not just in hurricane prone Florida, but states bordering the Gulf of Mexico and all up the eastern coast of the United States. It’s hard enough for young, able-bodied people to cope with the stress and risks brought on by the mega-storms, but seniors are particularly vulnerable.
As most of us know, just an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Being prepared for a hurricane should be a top priority regardless of your age. Let us share tips for how you and the seniors you love can take action this storm season!
1. Education.
Read, listen, and create a plan. For example, know ahead of time what you would do if a hurricane knocked out your electricity. Talk with friends, family and neighbors. Develop a preparation checklist and identify the nearest shelter for a worst case scenario. Planning ahead will save valuable time and create peace of mind.
2. Inspection.
This is something seniors can do right now. Inspect your home for potentially hazardous items. Are heavy picture frames securely fastened to your walls? Is the television stable? Consider doing a walk-through with friends, family members, or a professional to secure bookshelves and dressers, and consider rearranging furniture to provide a clearer path to the exits, especially where wheelchairs are involved.
3. Food and Water.
It’s recommended to have one to two weeks supply of nonperishable food items, and plenty of water. One gallon per day, per person, should be the minimum given that water will be used for more than just drinking. Remember, it might be longer and you may want to have more stored up. Start stocking up before your area is in the path of an oncoming hurricane when supplies will be limited.
4. Safety Kits.
Prepare a first aid kit and medical supply kit containing two weeks of prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines. If you don’t have enough of a supply right now, talk to your doctor about your needs. You can build these out at the start of hurricane season every June.
5. Important Documents.
Organize all your important documents, or copies of them, and put them in a dry, safe place in your home. This should include insurance documents, health-related directives, legal documents, various forms of identification, and a contact list of trusted confidants. Put these items in a waterproof container. Do not forget that much of your information may be stored on a computer and be sure it is protected from the weather as well.
We know just how important it is to be prepared. Do not hesitate to share with us your thoughts and questions. Please let us know how we can you and your family ensure you have the planning you need to protect you now and in the future.
