Preparedness information for seniors, written by seniors
Dear Friends,
We are a group of older adults who experienced a two-week power outage when a massive ice storm hit the Greater Rochester, New York, area. We were unprepared for such a disaster. If we had only taken a few simple steps to prepare ourselves for such an event, we could have eliminated many of the hardships we had to endure.
We are just like many of you. Some of us are in good health but aren't quite as agile as we used to be; some of us have hearing or vision problems; others use a cane or wheelchair. Whatever our limitations, however, we need to be prepared. We can be prepared.
For six months we have researched and discussed disasters and preparedness with the American Red Cross. To avoid getting caught unprepared, we urge you to immediately review the enclosed information and fill in the appropriate local emergency numbers. Be sure to keep this helpful reference tool in a handy place for quick reference.
Sincerely,
Vi, Melvin Q., Julia L., Nancy C., Marion V., Jam, Dorothy M., Janet H., Fran, Roger H., Mary S., and LaVinia
Take responsibility
Prepare NOW; disasters can strike quickly and without warning. Even if you have physical limitations, you can still protect yourself. Local officials and relief workers will not be able to reach everyone right away, so take responsibility. Keep in touch with your neighbors; look out for each other and be aware of anyone who may need special help. Knowing what to do is your best protection.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
How you may be notified of a possible emergency
Family Disaster Plan
By planning ahead, you can avoid waiting in long lines for critical supplies, such as food, water and medicine. Remember to review your plan regularly. Use the following checklist to get started:
Medical Emergency Supplies
For your safety and comfort, have at least three days' worth of emergency supplies (both medical and general) packed and ready in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffel bag. Make sure your bag has an ID tag and label any equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes or walkers that you need. Use the following checklist to get your emergency supplies started:
It may not be necessary to evacuate, or you may be ordered to stay in your home. If this happens, you will need in addition to the above items:
Shelter In Place
In a chemical emergency, you may be told to "shelter in place." This means staying where you are and making yourself as safe as possible until the emergency passes or you are told to evacuate. In this situation, it is better to remain indoors than to go outside where the air may be contaminated. If you are told to shelter in place:
Red Cross shelters may be opened if a disaster affects a large number of people, or if the emergency is expected to last several days. All American Red Cross emergency services are provided free of charge, including food, temporary shelter and basic first aid. To learn about Red Cross shelters serving your area, listen to your battery-powered radio or check with your local Red Cross chapter.
Be prepared to go to a shelter if
If you need to evacuate
In some communities, people who need help or transportation during an evacuation are asked to register that need with their local government. Call your local emergency management office for information and suggestions about what to do during an evacuation.
If you are sure you have enough time
Residential Fires
One emergency we could all face at any time is a home fire. Despite any physical limitations we may have, there are some things we can do to improve our safety.
Plan two escape routes out of each room. If you cannot use stairways, make special arrangements for help in advance. Never use elevators. Sleep with the bedroom door closed, as this gives you extra minutes of protection from toxic fumes and fire. Vacuum your smoke detector occasionally to remove dust, and test the battery regularly. As a reminder, change batteries on the same day each year.
In case of fire
Grandchildren's Safety
It is estimated that 3.4 million children live in a household headed by grandparents. Many children visit their grandparents often. To prepare a safe environment at home for children:
Children can help grandparents, too
Have children test each smoke detector in your home to make sure it is working by using a broom handle to push the test button. See that the battery is changed in each detector that doesn't work. Ask children to draw a floor plan of your home and show two ways out of every room in case of fire.
For More Information
If you would like more information on disaster planning or on the disasters likely to happen in your area, the following information is available:
The following may be ordered free from the U.S. Fire Administration:
Smoke Detectors and Fire Safety: A Guide for Older Americans
Pub. #L-126
FEMA/U.S. Fire Administration
P.O. Box 2012
Jessup, MD 20794-2012
NOAA Weather Radio information
NOAA Weather Radio
Stock #: NOAA PA 76015
Contact your local National Weather Service office for frequency information, type of information broadcast and where to obtain a NOAA Weather Radio.
The following may be ordered from FEMA:
Preparedness for People with Disabilities (earthquake)
Pub. # FEMA-75
Hurricane Awareness-Action Guidelines for Senior Citizens
Item #8-0440
FEMA
P.O. Box 2012
Jessup, MD 20794-2012
Emergency information may also be obtained from your utility company.
Emergency Phone Numbers
Local emergency services number:___________________________
Ambulance:_____________________________________________
Nearest relative:_________________________________________
Local contact:____________________________________________
Out of state contact:______________________________________
Doctors:________________________________________________
Local Red Cross Chapter:___________________________________
Insurance Agent:_________________________________________
Other:__________________________________________________
Production of this information was funded by a grant from the Special Projects Fund of the American National Red Cross to the Rochester-Monroe County Chapter of the American Red Cross and was developed in cooperation with:
Monroe County Office of Emergency Preparedness
Monroe County Community Home Health Agency
Monroe County Office for the Aging
Visiting Nurse Service
Catholic Family Center
Rochester Gas and Electric
Rochester Telephone
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