September 1, 2007

September is National Preparedness Month

We would like to join the other agencies in encouraging the public to build an emergency supplies kit, make an emergency plan and get informed of the types of emergencies that can happen.

"National Preparedness Month, which is concurrent with the anniversaries of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and last year's devastating hurricanes serve as serious reminders that emergency preparedness is important for all citizens, especially older Americans and people with disabilities," said Homeland Security Under Secretary for Preparedness George Foresman.

The goal is to improve the U.S. preps for disaster and to teach the
importance of preparedness. The Ready Campaign, AARP, Red Cross, and NOD have developed two new brochures specifically highlighting the key preparedness steps for seniors and people with disabilities.

Last year's hurricane season demonstrated that seniors may have different needs. The new brochures, written for older adults and those with disabilities, recognize the importance of adding medications, medical records, glasses, hearing aids and other special medical equipment to basic emergency supplies kits.

All seniors (and other ages) should take charge of themselves and as best possible take care of their own needs should an emergency occur. We encourage all seniors to take a self assessment of their abilities.

"It's important for older Americans to know what they can and cannot do in an emergency so they know what kind of help to ask for," said Becker. "All seniors should take charge of themselves and practice self assertiveness when letting others know their needs should an emergency occur."

In the event of an emergency, it may be necessary to evacuate to a safer location. Take the time to prepare now and build a kit with essentials that can be easily transported. You can build your own kit.

When building a kit, the Red Cross recommends starting with these items: A minimum three-day supply of nonperishable food and manual can opener. A minimum three-day supply of water (one gallon of water per person, per day). Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries. Flashlight and extra batteries. First aid kit and manual. Sanitation and hygiene items such as hand sanitizer, moist towelettes and toilet paper. Special needs items such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solution and hearing aid batteries. Photocopies of identification, credit cards, prescriptions and important documents in a sealed, waterproof container such as a freezer bag. Cash and coins. Pet supplies if you have a pet or service animal. Appropriate clothing and blankets for your climate

The following is also recommended: Lots of fuel for your vehicle. Weapons, if legal and if you are competent in their use. Alarm clock. Caffeine pills. You may not want to be napping along the refugee trail. You can sleep when you get to your destination. Cell phone, and two types of charger (plug in, and car charger) on the odd chance that cell phones work.

Take time out before disaster strikes to build a kit, make your plan and get informed. National Preparedness Month reminds us that preparedness information is important for everyone.