Emergency/Disaster Preparedness Tips from Transitions Hospice Care

Plan ahead!

Tips to help prepare our patients & their families, our staff & their families, our neighbors, & community... know your risks, make a plan, & take action.

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When preparing for an emergency or disaster, here are some things to think of...

PREPARING FOR SEVERE WEATHER, FLOODING, & POWER OUTAGES

• When thunder roars, go indoors and pay attention to weather alerts
• Become familiar with your evacuation plan and if told to do so, do so immediately!
• If on oxygen, make sure back up tanks are full and working
• Fill your car up with fuel
• Charge cell phone
• Stock up on nonperishable foods and bottled water for up to 3 days
• Make sure all prescription medications are up to date and filled
• Have plenty of back up batteries of each size and keep jump boxes charged
• Use flashlights instead of candles when power outages occur as candles can result with an unwanted fire
• Seek shelter if necessary- storm shelter or small interior room with no windows
• Prepare your home and purchase flood insurance if needed- standard insurance policies do not cover flood damage
• If flooding occurs:

          - Flooded roadways- turn around, do not drown

          - Seek higher ground

         - Avoid wading in water- elevated risk of dangerous contamination and

            debris

          - Downed or underground power lines can electrically charge the water

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EXTREME HEAT

• ‍‍If possible, just stay inside
• Wear light colored and loose fitted clothing
• Stay hydrated
• Know & watch for the signs of heat- related illnesses

            - Hot skin

            - Dizziness

           - Confusion

            - Rapid, strong pulse

            - * If having all the symptoms listed above, call 911 or get to a hospital

               immediately - the person is suffering from heat stroke

            - Cool the person by removing outer clothing and moving to a cooler

               environment

            - Try ice packs or a fan if available

            - Watch for breathing problems while waiting for EMS or while enroute to

               the hospital

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PANDEMICS

• Know how the virus’ spread
• Wash hands or use hand sanitizer that contains 60% or more alcohol
• Avoid close contact with sick people- social distancing of 6 ft. or more
• Wear a face covering when experiencing symptoms or will be around symptomatic people
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily

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CYBER ATTACK

• Keep your software and operating systems up to date
• Use strong passwords
• Watch for suspicious activity
• Avoid entering personal/bank information unless trusted

ACTIVE SHOOTER‍

• Run, hide, and/or fight!
• Always pay attention to your surroundings
• Follow Law Enforcement’s instructions

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For more related content, check out our article on Safety.  Contact us today to learn more about Hospice Care.

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Resources: FEMA

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