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Older adults should have an individual emergency plan. You can prepare your individual emergency plan by planning ahead; keeping in touch with your family and neighbors; and sharing your emergency information with others.
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Plan Ahead
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Disaster can strike without warning and older adults can especially be vulnerable in disasters. Older adults can help ensure their safety in case of an emergency by:
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· Having an emergency kit at home ready to take with you in case you need to evacuate your home. The kit can also help “shelter in place” if emergency officials direct people to stay in their homes.
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· Knowing the location and phone number of your local emergency management and American Red Cross offices.
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· Labeling any equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes or walkers you would need.
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· Listing the style and serial numbers of medical devices such as pacemakers.
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· Planning for transportation if you need to evacuate.
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· Filling prescriptions before they run out.
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· Knowing the telephone number of a 24-hour pharmacy for emergencies.
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· Knowing the 24-hour emergency contact number for your doctor.
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· Posting emergency phone numbers near the phone.
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· Keeping a copy of important contact numbers and medical information in your wallet or purse.
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· Planning and practicing the best escape routes from your home.
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Keep in Touch with Family & Neighbors; Share Emergency Information
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Establish relationships with nearby neighbors before an emergency or disaster happens. Ask nearby family or neighbors you trust to check on you during a disaster. Keep in touch with your family and neighbors and look out for each other by:
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· Sharing your emergency contact and medical information with your apartment building management or condo association.
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· Giving your emergency contact and medical information to your neighbors and family.
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· Creating a contact list of your neighbors’ information.
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· Arranging for someone to check on you.
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· Teaching those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment. Be sure they will be able to reach you.
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· If you have home health care services, plan ahead with your agency for emergency procedures.
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· Notifying local police, fire and rescue responders of special needs or mobility issues.
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