Disaster Preparedness Tips for Seniors

Disaster preparedness is important for every senior, whether living in your own home or a senior living community. That’s why CRISTA Senior Living in Shoreline, WA, has an Emergency Preparedness & Safety Committee that meets regularly.

“The safety and wellness of all our Senior Living Residents and Staff are a top priority,” said Cristwood Park Community Manager Brian Cordova. “All residents receive important information in their resident handbooks about emergency preparedness. We have CRISTA Security available 24/7, disaster preparedness plans, emergency phone trees, and partnerships in the community for relocation if needed. Our emergency training includes fire, earthquake, lockdown, and evacuation drills given by our CRISTA Security Team and the Shoreline Fire Department.”

Whether you live in a community prepared for a disaster or in your own home, it is important to be prepared. You can ensure your safety and peace of mind by taking proactive steps. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate challenging situations with confidence.

Create a Disaster Preparedness Emergency Kit

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial in times of crisis. Keep one in your house and the trunk of your car. Include the following items recommended by FEMA for a basic kit:

• Water and non-perishable food for several days
• Extra cell phone battery or charger
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio that can receive NOAA Weather Radio tone alerts
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Non-sparking wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Prescription medications and glasses

Take Your Disaster Preparedness to the Next Level

If you want to take your emergency kit to the next level, FEMA recommends adding the following:

• Pet food, water, and supplies for your pet
• Important family documents in a portable waterproof container
• Cash in dollars and change
• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from ready.gov
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Personal hygiene items and hand sanitizer
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and disposable utensils, paper towels

Be Prepared for Day-to-Day Disasters

It doesn’t have to be a national disaster for you to need help. Being prepared will prevent worry and ensure you get the help you need. Consider doing the following to make sure you are safe when health or a home disaster strikes.

• Keep contact information for emergency services, family, and friends in your purse or wallet as well as on your mobile phone
• Establish a reliable communication plan with your loved ones and caregivers
• Make sure someone calls or texts you daily and expects you to respond
• Sign up for local alerts and notifications through text messages or emergency apps
• Stay informed about weather conditions, natural disasters, and community evacuation plans
• Join local senior or community groups to stay connected and informed about disaster preparedness initiatives
• Prepare your home with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and regularly test them
• Maintain a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location
• Make sure your home is well-lit and pathways are clear to prevent falls
• Install a medical alert system for quick access to help in case of emergencies
• Know how to evacuate your home if you need to, where you will stay, and who will help you
• Pack a “go bag” with essential items, including medications and important documents
• Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial for everyone, especially seniors. By following these disaster preparedness tips, you can minimize risks. Being proactive now can make a big difference in how you handle unexpected situations. Stay prepared, stay safe, and embrace peace of mind, knowing that you are equipped to face any adversity that comes your way.

If you are ready to gain the security that living in a senior living community brings, visit us at CRISTA Senior Living. We would love to meet you and take you on a tour!