It’s important for older adults and people with disabilities to plan ahead for the unexpected. Weather-related emergencies, power outages, and road closures are challenging for anyone. People with certain disabilities and other medical considerations need to create a plan that takes into account their specific needs. Here are a few tips to help you plan for the unexpected.
Extreme heat and cold
Older adults are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Being someplace with adequate heating and air conditioning is important. Fans and space heaters alone don't provide enough protection against extreme temperatures.
Important considerations when planning for periods of extreme temperature.
- Don't wait until you are experiencing medical issues due to extreme temperatures before moving to a safer location. Play it safe and leave early.
- Know where to go. If a family member, friend, or neighbor is not available to take you in, learn where the
cooling centers and
warming centers are in your community.
- If transportation is an issue, plan ahead for someone you can call for a ride, or install a rideshare app on your phone and learn how to use it
before you need it.
Power outages
If you rely on energy-dependent medical equipment, power outages can be a real concern. Knowing how much power you have left on a charged device, and where to go to access power when you need it is important.
If a power outage occurs during extreme temperatures, move to a heating or cooling center as soon as possible.
Emergency evacuations
Extreme weather and other environmental emergencies can make it necessary to leave your home on very short notice. Creating a plan ahead of time can keep you safer in an emergency and help you prepare for an evacuation.
Prepare an emergency kit that includes:
- Non-perishable food and water for you and your pets
- Medications and medical supplies
- Insurance cards and identification cards
- Contact information for your family, friends, and medical professionals
- Assistive, medical, and communications devices, batteries, and chargers
Prepare an evacuation plan that includes:
- Talking to your doctor about how to prepare for an emergency evacuation
- Methods of transportation and places to go
- Communicating with family and emergency contacts about your evacuation plan and any related needs
If you are in imminent danger, always call 911 first!
National Resources for Emergency Preparedness
