Emergency Preparedness for Seniors

EMERGENCY MEASURES ORGANIZATION--Emergency Preparedness for Seniors

During a disaster, seniors can be among the most vulnerable. Being prepared can help reduce the fear, panic, and inconvenience that surrounds a disaster and can make coping easier. For seniors, being prepared takes some extra planning.

Seniors who live independently have more responsibility for themselves than do seniors living in special-care facilities. With a little awareness and preparation, all seniors can be prepared to protect themselves from the unexpected. The unexpected may be a power outage, severe weather forcing them to stay in or an accident in the home. A few easy steps can make a big difference.

Deborah Naugler, director of Occupational Safety and Protection at Northwood, recommends having emergency phone numbers taped to the fridge or close to the phone. She says 911 should be called first in an emergency where the ambulance, fire or police are needed. "Seniors should also know the name and phone number of a neighbour, friend or relative who lives close by and who can help in an emergency," said Ms. Naugler.

Seniors are also encouraged to contact their local fire or police department administration offices to let officials know that they live alone and to arrange for someone to check on them during an emergency. These phone numbers can be found in the white pages of local phone books.

Having important information readily available is crucial and will make communicating easier during an emergency. Information such as name, next of kin, family doctor and all medications taken should be included. This information should be kept on a piece of paper either on the back of the door, near the telephone or on the refrigerator.

Seniors are encouraged to have a few extra items on hand, such as blankets, groceries and medication. A loss of power can mean loss of heat. Seniors, who are often cold, will need extra blankets to stay comfortable.

To help plan for an emergency, seniors can ask themselves a few questions.

• Do I have enough medication to last another week or month?
• Could I survive a few days without power, based on what's in
  my kitchen?
• Do I have someone to check on me in case my phone is down and
  I can't leave my house?

EMO offers some tips for all Nova Scotians to ensure that seniors are safe when a disaster strikes:

• include seniors who live near by in your emergency plan;
• have their phone numbers and emergency contact numbers on
  hand;
• meet with them to discuss any medical issues that may be of
  importance during an emergency.

"It's really about neighbours helping neighbours during emergencies," says Ernest Fage, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act. "With a little extra planning all Nova Scotians can be better prepared for emergencies."

Mr. Fage encourages all Nova Scotians to have items on hand that are useful in an emergency. These include a flashlight and extra batteries, a battery-operated radio, a first-aid kit, a manual can opener, bottled water and non-perishable food that doesn't have to be cooked.

"Everyone should work out a plan that fits their needs and that is simple to implement," says Mr. Fage. "Taking the time to prepare for emergencies can make a big difference."

"Even if you have physical limitations, you can still prepare yourself," says Mr. Fage. EMO offers these tips: -- If you have home health-care service, plan ahead with your agency for emergency procedures; -- Teach those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment and be sure they will be able to reach you.

Finally, practice and review your emergency plan. You should practice the plan at least two or three times a year.

Emergency Preparedness Week takes place May 2-8 with participation from every province and territory. This year's theme is Prepare Now! Learn How! For more information on being prepared, visit the Nova Scotia Emergency Measures Organization's website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo/.