Preparing for Disaster

Disasters can strike anywhere and at any time. The next time disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. The following steps can help you prepare now for a sudden emergency in order to greatly improve your and your family’s chances of survival and recovery.

Do Your Homework

Learn which disasters are possible for where you live and how they might affect your family. Develop a list of important phone numbers (e.g., doctor, hospital, police, fire, work, school, relatives, Coram). Post this list in a prominent place in your home and carry a copy with you as well.

Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit

Assemble supplies that you may need in the event of an evacuation. Store them in an easy-to-carry container such as a backpack or duffle bag. Your kit should include:

A supply of water (one gallon per person, per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Note the storage date and replace every 6 months
A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned foods and a non-electrical can opener
A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
Blankets or sleeping bags
A first aid kit and prescription medications
An extra pair of glasses
A battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries

Credit card or cash
An extra set of car keys
A list of family physicians, medical information and current prescriptions names and dosages. This list should include detailed information about your medication regimen
Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
For patients with bleeding disorders, pack supplies needed to infuse factor (e.g., extra butterflies, syringes, dressings, alcohol swabs, cold packs)

General Emergency Preparedness Tips

Tune in to your local radio station for disaster and evacuation information.
If physically able, go to the nearest shelter as directed by local authorities.
Notify your homecare company if you need to leave your place of residence.
If unable to contact your homecare company for information or supplies during an emergency, contact a local emergency room for assistance.
Always follow guidelines and instructions provided by local law enforcement, civil defense and emergency preparedness agencies.
If advanced warning is given and you anticipate needing additional supplies, medication or nursing services, please contact your homecare company as soon as possible.
When a disaster occurs, notify your homecare company if you experience a loss of power, supplies or medications. If on a continuous infusion of medication, you may need to manually adjust the rate or stop the infusion as directed by your your homecare company nurse. Place drugs in a cooler for storage.
During an earthquake, try to stand under an inside or strongly supported door frame.
During a tornado, stay in southeast corner of an inside room.
During a hurricane, seek a high area, away from possible flooding.
Stay away from windows and broken glass, and wear shoes at all times.
After the disaster occurs, check all residents for injuries.
Check the home for gas/water leaks and turn off all appropriate valves.
During a fire or flood, evacuate the home to avoid personal injury. Notify your homecare company after the emergency situation is over.
Contact your phone company to register for its priority list in case of phone service interruption.