As the world becomes more dangerous place with imminent disasters like hurricanes, blizzards, and floods, it’s no longer a question if a disaster goes to strike, but when. Due to both natural and manmade hazards, disaster preparedness is now a necessity. as the public becomes a lot of aware of their surroundings and sensitive to the calamities and disasters happening around the world, there is an increasing need for info regarding how to survive future disasters.
Emergencies and disasters will strike anyplace and anytime without warning. These situations will become a challenge as they push you to your limits while you fight for your safety and survival. But who very needs to be ready for future disasters? Is everybody equally at risk? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), senior citizens are one of the most vulnerable populations when a disaster strikes.
The Elderly is More Vulnerable
There are a range of reasons why the senior is more vulnerable than most in disaster situations. Some of the obvious explanations is that older folks with physical limitations or are mentally impaired will have issues understanding instructions in keeping themselves safe and secure. If an senior has a mobility impairment, he or she will have issue when evacuating, standing in line or resting inside a crowded shelter. People in wheelchairs, and those using canes and walkers will also be unable to climb stairs. Moreover, senior people are also more susceptible to diseases when subjected to extreme temperature changes and stress during disasters. Add to these are the social and economic limitations that hinder their ability to adequately prepare for disasters; it’s no wonder that the senior desperately need a guide to help survive future disasters.
In order to fill this need, here are some of the most common and priceless tips for the elderly to survive future disasters.
Staying Alert Can Save Your Life
Elderly people can sometimes find it difficult to remain aware and responsive to their surroundings particularly during disaster situations. To address this issue, you can get convenient alarm systems designed to help your elderly loved one in any future predicaments. With this kind of alarm system, senior citizens may be notified of a possible emergency in advance. Home security and wireless emergency response systems are also useful for older adults since they’ll remain safe inside their homes should the facility run out during thunderstorms and blizzards.
Prepare Ahead of Time in Case of Disasters
We all know that planning ahead is always an honest plan. Disasters can happen at any moment and putting together a basic disaster provides kit is a great way to prepare for forthcoming predicaments. A basic provides kit should include food, water, medicine and different essential things. As the American Red Cross suggests, disaster kits should contain enough supplies for a minimum of three days. You should also store your supplies in convenient containers that are simple to carry while having enough space to hold all your necessities. Labeling equipment like wheelchairs, canes and walkers is also important so you don’t lose them when disaster strikes. In addition, keeping your kit updated is another crucial tip to prepare yourself for future disasters. Ensure to check the expiration dates of your food and medications as well as replace batteries as needed.
Now You’ve Got a Kit, What You Need is a Plan
Disasters can strike so fast you’ll not have time at all to act; however when you have a ready-made plan for emergency situations, reducing anxiety and staying calm and collected will no longer be a problem. Support equipment, such as wheelchairs and walkers, and vital records and documents should be accessible just in case you need to evacuate your home. Another indispensable tip is to understand wherever the most convenient escape routes are, as well as the designated meeting places for you and your friends and family so you won’t get lost during an emergency.
A Support Network is Always a Good Thing
As part of your survival plan for future disasters, you should always make a point to keep your lines of communication open. You need to be ready to contact, and be contacted, by your family and friends at all times during emergency situations. This is vital so they know you’re safe and can meet you in safer locations. American Red Cross recommends that senior citizens should develop a support network of close and trusted folks during emergencies. This network can be a mutual arrangement where each of you check in on each other. You’ll decide to exchange vital keys or show them where your emergency supplies are kept along with different agreements to make sure your safety.
Be Involved in Your Community’s Disaster Plans
Along with having a great support network, you should also be involved in your community’s disaster management plans and procedures. This is so you know however your community can assist you during emergency situations. You’ll also volunteer to take part in their programs. As an example, you’ll make an arrangement with a neighbor to assist you evacuate and transport you to a safer location. By being an active part of your community, you’ll increase your chances of survival when future disasters occur.
If You Know the Hazard, You Know the Solution
What are the kinds of disaster or emergency situations that are most likely to happen in your area? To adequately prepare yourself for future disasters, you should find out what kind of hazards your community is more prone to. Are you near an earthquake zone? Do floods sometimes occur around your home when there are typhoons? Is your area frequently hit by tornados? Preparing for a disaster that your area is vulnerable to is one of the key ways to lessen risks during forthcoming predicaments.
Disaster Has Struck, What Do You Do?
What you need to do to keep yourself out of harm’s way depends on the kind of emergency scenario you’re facing. Keep in mind that you should remember and make it a point to listen to announcements through your tv or radio regarding an emergency scenario. If you’re up against a harsh thunderstorm or an extreme blizzard, you’ll be advised to remain at home. This means that you should stay where you’re and keep yourself as safe as potential till the storm passes or you are told to evacuate. On the other hand, you’ll be asked to evacuate your home if your area is experiencing a wildfire, flood or a tornado. During these situations, you should always lock your home before leaving. When you arrive at the shelter, notify the management regarding your needs such as food, water, and first-aid.
Remember that the Disaster Will Subside
It is very understandable for people, especially senior citizens to be distressed when facing traumatic situations like a disaster. Whenever an emergency scenario occurs, you may experience emotional, physical, mental, and possibly spiritual stress that can lead to a lot of issues for you and the individuals around you. These reactions could include headaches, insomnia, irritability, depression and disorientation. Being prepared for this as you remain calm and collected can cut back your anxieties and stay positive. Keep in mind that while you’re inside your home or community shelter, you’re safe from harm during these tough times and can always get back up to live your life to the fullest.
What You Do Makes a Difference
Whatever set up you make on how to survive future disasters, know that all your efforts count. When you’re encountering an emergency scenario, having a plan can let you stay focused and alert thus you can do what’s necessary to care for yourself. Take responsibility for your safety by remaining aware of your surroundings. With a solid disaster plan, you’ll be a lot of capable of handling circumstances that will come your way and remain safe and secure at all times.
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