Getting Through Hurricane & Storm Season in Safety
Here in New England, storm season is in full swing. Although extreme weather is a yearly event, how many of us are truly prepared for the aftermath of a hurricane, flood, or major winter storm?
Here’s a refresher on some of the most important steps to take ahead of time to survive storm season, with a focus on helping seniors be prepared.
Sign Up for the RI Special Needs Emergency Registry
For seniors as well as people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, limited mobility and special needs, we’ve written previously about the importance of registering on the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Special Needs Emergency Registry.
Assemble Supplies
Do you have an emergency supply kit? You will need supplies to help you manage if there are power outages or if you cannot leave your home. Ready.gov has helpful information on how to built your kit; it includes special considerations for seniors and pets.
Make an Evacuation Plan
If you must evacuate, do you know where you would go and how you’d get there? What valuables would you bring with you, or try to preserve on an upper floor? Write out a plan and keep it along with important contact names and numbers in a safe place. Having some key plans made ahead of time will provide peace of mind if things get hectic.
Prepare your House and Property
Arrange to have dead and weak branches on trees around your house trimmed or removed ahead of storm season. Make sure you have waterproof containers on hand for storing valuables and important papers.
Keep Getting Your Benefits
In an emergency, mail may be disrupted, and getting to the bank to deposit benefits checks may be impossible. One simple thing you can do right now is switch to electronic direct deposit of social security, pension, or other benefits.
For more ideas, including what to do if an elderly loved one does not want to evacuate, be sure to read this recent New York Times article: When You’re Elderly and Ill and a Storm is Coming.