Keep Senior Loved Ones Safe During Emergencies

According to the Division of Aging and Seniors, older adults have traditionally played a vital role during and after emergencies. For example, in the destructive 2003 wildfire season in British Columbia, seniors were able to provide the know-how and guidance to help the communities quickly rebuild. Public Health Agency of Canada also reports that after a severe ice storm in Manitoba, seniors stepped up in great numbers to man the emergency shelters and food distribution centers. Yet older adults, especially those with disabilities, can also be more vulnerable when emergencies strike.

Help your loved one assemble emergency supplies for the home, as well as an emergency evacuation kit.

If you have senior loved ones, this is a great time to talk about safety. For our elders, physical impairments, medical and dietary needs, lack of transportation and isolation can make it harder to be safe, and to recover from a hazardous situation. But advanced preparation makes it far more likely that your loved one will be able to take appropriate action before...during...and after an emergency.

Taking practical steps to protect your loved one begins with getting the information you need. You should KNOW....

• the type of emergencies that are most likely to occur in the area
• immediate actions to take in case of a sudden emergency (such as an ice storm, earthquake or tornado)
• your community's disaster preparedness plan
• the recommended evacuation route from your loved one's home
• the location of the nearest evacuation centre 
• escape routes out of the home in case of fire
• how to shut off the electricity, water and gas if advised to do so
• an out-of-area contact that your loved one can reach if it's impossible to make local calls.

Once you have the information you need, the next step is to PREPARE....

A personal support network. This can be an informal arrangement with family, neighbours or friends. If your loved one has limited mobility, a sensory impairment or other disability, you may also be able to register with the local emergency services agencies for special assistance. If your loved one uses home health care services, speak with the agency about emergency arrangements.

A shelter plan. If possible, make arrangements in advance for your loved one to stay with friends or family out of the area. Know where to go if the order to evacuate is given. Make arrangements ahead of time for transportation to an evacuation centre.

Emergency preparation supplies for surviving safely and comfortably at home, as well as an emergency evacuation kit with survival supplies in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffel bag. It is recommended that the kit contains....

• At least two litres of water per person per day; enough for at least three days (or as long as is suggested in the area). Water should be stored in unbreakable containers that your loved one can handle.
• Non-perishable, high-energy food supply, keeping in mind any dietary restrictions. Choose foods that are easy to store and carry.
• Basic utensils, including a manual can opener
• First aid and hygiene supplies (including toilet paper, moist wipes)
• Powerful flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
• Cell phone and extra battery
• Two-week supply (minimum) of your loved one's prescription drugs and other medicines
• Clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Cash, credit cards or traveler's cheques
• Phone numbers of relatives and friends and other emergency numbers
• Portable medical equipment as needed.

If your loved one has pets, keep a supply of non-perishable food. Remember that evacuation centres normally only admit service animals.

Then, if an emergency does occur, be ready to TAKE ACTION....

• Listen to the radio or TV for instructions about the prescribed steps for the emergency that is happening.
• If instructed to take shelter immediately, do so at once.
• If evacuation is recommended, the most comfortable choice is with family or friends who live out of the danger area. Or, emergency public shelters can also provide food and a safe place to stay. Bring your disaster supply kit, and use the routes specified by local authorities.
• If instructed to do so, shut off electricity, gas and water.

More Emergency Preparation Resources

Get Prepared Canada offers information about specific emergencies which could occur in your area. The website also offers an online video on preparing a family emergency kit, and a free booklet, "The 72 Hours Emergency Preparedness Guide."

Public Health Canada offers information and resources for seniors and family caregivers on the "Emergency Preparedness and Seniors" website.

The Canadian Red Cross website hosts the "Together We Prepare" website. You may also purchase emergency care literature, as well as first aid and emergency kits on the site.

Just for Fun Emergency Supply Kit Wordfind Give your brain a workout with this month's puzzle, which contains the names of 18 items that should be part of your emergency supply kit!