Senior Care: Planning for Weather Emergencies!

With the winter weather coming upon us quickly, maybe now is a good time to be prepared for those unexpected weather emergencies. Even though our local weather forecasters are usually accurate, there is always that possibility of an unexpected or harsher storm hitting us at any given time. By taking a few cautious steps now, we may be more prepared, happier, and safer for the unexpected!
Items to have on hand should include a snow shovel, car window scrapper, sand, ice melt, or kitty litter for safe access from your door to your car. Keeping your gas tank at least ½ full is always a good idea. It is always very important to have an emergency contact number readily available to call in a weather emergency. Please know who will shovel out your doors, walk ways, and furnace exhausts ahead of time, since these areas must be kept clear for safety.
Remember to always have enough bottled water and canned food and other non-perishable goods stored in your home to support you for at least a few days. A battery operated radio, flashlights, and extra batteries are a must. Extra warm clothing, sleeping bags, and blankets should be stored where you can reach them easily. Never let your supply of medicines get too low! Making your own personal emergency medical kit that is tailored to your own medical needs including the usual medical supplies is a prudent option. It can include things like doctors phone numbers, an up-to-date medication list, allergies, insurance information and advanced directive or living will documents. Even writing down your family and friends phone numbers is a good idea. Planning for an emergency now will make procedures easier, quicker, and safer should the unexpected happen.