Seniors may be more vulnerable to disaster-caused
stress than others. While many seniors are in good health, others
may have one or more impairments that can become disabilities
in an emergency. Even if you have physical limitations, you still
can protect yourself.
Disaster Can Strike Quickly
and Without Warning! Protect yourself and cope with
disaster by planning ahead!
- Prepare to self-sufficient for at least three
days; water, food, batteries.
- Remove all small rugs that are not anchored
to the floor. They may slide or trip you.
- Move beds away from windows.
- Place heavy objects on low shelves.
- Arrange for a buddy system. Do not isolate
yourself from friends and neighbors. Let them know about any
special needs.
- Identify exits and possible alternate escape
routes. Avoid areas where you could become trapped and escape
notice of rescue workers.
- If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with
your emergency supplies.
- If you use life support equipment, such as
oxygen, have someone fasten the tank to prevent it from falling
over in an earthquake.
- Assess your own special needs. Be sure to
include your requirements for medications and/or special equipment.
- Keep duplicate medications and prescriptions
in a safe place, where they can easily be reached. They should
be ready to be taken with you in case of an evacuation.
- Keep names and numbers of doctors, pharmacies
and family members all together.
Impaired Hearing:
- Install a fire and smoke alarm designed for
hearing impaired persons. System features flashing strobe light
to gain attention.
- Install and learn how to use a telecommunications
device for the deaf (TDD).
- Remember to keep and extra battery supply
for your hearing aid.
- Have pads and pencils available for communication
with others.
- Stay aware, informed and involved in your
neighborhood residence.
- Keep a whistle to signal for help.
- Keep walking aids in strategic area around
your home to help you around obstacles and hazards that may
result from disaster.
- Put a security light in each room. These lights
plug into any outlet and light up automatically if there is
a loss of electricity.
During
and After an Earthquake:
Remain Calm
- If you are in bed or sitting down, do not
get up (as long as nothing is going to fall on you). Stay where
your are and cover your head and neck.
- If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it, lock
the wheels, and cover your head and neck with your hands.
- Turn on your portable radio for instructions
and news reports.
- Prepare for aftershocks.
- If you evacuate your home, leave a message
at your home telling family members and others where you can
be found.
