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Severe Weather—Are You Prepared?

By Heather O'Brien
Eldercare Specialist

In light of the recent severe weather affecting our entire region, St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions would like to take this opportunity to remind our clients to be prepared in the event of an emergency.  Disasters can strike with little warning, forcing you to evacuate your home or possibly be confined to your home for a period of time.  Entire neighborhoods could go days or even weeks without basic services such as water, gas, electricity, and communication.  In most severe cases, relief workers may not be able to reach each home affected right away.  In order to survive such conditions, it is extremely important to be prepared. The American Red Cross states there are three steps to preparedness: 

  1. Make two emergency kits: a 3 day supply evacuation kit and a 2 week supply for your home.  Include one gallon of water per person per day, food that does not require cooking, flashlights and batteries (DO NOT USE CANDLES), first aid kit and manual, medication supply, multipurpose tool, manual can opener, personal hygiene items, copies of personal documents, cell phone and extra battery, emergency contact numbers, cash, blankets, whistle, pet supplies, and a set of keys.

  2. Make a plan.  Meet with your support network to prepare for a disaster.  If your loved one requires care be sure to include all caregivers, those within the family as well as those hired through an agency. If your loved one uses an assistive device be sure to address this in your plan. Have a designated escape route and meeting place.  Make sure escape routes are accessible.  Have a safety drill every 6 months.  Know how to shut off utilities at the main switches in case lines are damaged.  Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.  Make sure insurance coverage is adequate.  Note that some policies do not cover flooding or other hazards.   

  3. Be informed.  Be aware of the hazards that are most likely to occur in your area.  Know the community warning systems and how local authorities warn citizens in the event of an emergency.

Our hearts go out to those affected by the recent storms in our area.  If you would like information about how to help the victims, or additional information about disaster preparedness, please visit the American Red Cross website at http://www.redcrossstl.org/.