Provo Water: Supporting Elderly Residents During Hurricanes
Seniors Are Especially Vulnerable To Hurricanes: Living in a coastal area like Providenciales requires hurricane preparedness, and seniors face unique challenges in this regard. One significant issue is isolation, as older people often live alone, making disaster preparedness more difficult. Limited mobility and specific medical needs further complicate their ability to prepare for and respond to hurricanes.
Here are ways you can support your elderly loved ones in lowering their risk and feeling safer by preparing for hurricanes before they happen.
- Help Develop a Contact List: Whether you live nearby or far away, it’s crucial to create a contact list for a local support network. This list should include neighbors, friends, and other family members who can assist in an emergency. Ensure these contacts are stored in their smartphone and yours, and keep a physical copy in an easily accessible location. Also, include sources for the latest hurricane news, such as the national weather service, DDME and local radio stations.
- Gather Their Medical Info: Help organize your loved one’s medical information to avoid medication errors, especially during evacuations or storm preparations. Use a simple medication chart template and consider medical alert jewelry for chronic conditions, disabilities, or allergies. This ensures first responders can provide appropriate care even if your loved one cannot communicate.
- Make a Plan to Secure Their Home: Proactive home maintenance can significantly reduce hurricane damage. Keep trees trimmed, install storm shutters, and follow a complete list of property preparation tips. Taking these steps ahead of hurricane season can protect your loved one’s property and provide peace of mind.
- Build an Evacuation Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes contact and medical info, devices, water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and other essentials for a few days’ survival. Include cash in small bills and coins. This kit ensures your loved one can stay safe and healthy if they need to evacuate to a shelter or another location.
- Help Them Plan Refuge at Home: If sheltering in place is recommended, help your loved one choose a safe room, typically a small room, closet, or hallway on the lowest floor, away from windows and glass doors. The goal is to have as many walls between them and the outdoors as possible.
Questions?
For any questions on how to keep your loved one safe during a hurricane, please reach out to us at 946-5202. We’re here to help.