Tips for Making an Emergency Preparation Plan

Humans have always lived in a world full of uncertainties. Natural disasters, power outages, accidents, and illnesses are all events that can wreak havoc on a person’s well-being.

But in the case of elderly adults, special considerations need to be taken when facing possible scenarios like the above-mentioned. As such, Wilkes-Barre seniors and their families should prepare for the unexpected. Establishing an emergency preparedness plan not only keeps seniors safe, but it ensures they can deal with any curveballs thrown their way.

How to Create an Emergency Preparation Plan

An effective emergency preparation plan includes several different elements, including a communication plan, a supply kit, and informing a senior’s in-home caregivers about emergency protocols.

Use these tips to establish an emergency preparation plan of your own or for the seniors in your life.

Create a Comprehensive Emergency Plan

This list should cover many different scenarios, from injuries to severe weather. Seniors should create a list of emergency contacts, including relatives, caregivers, and doctors, and keep it in an easily accessible location. It is even better if the list is laminated to keep it waterproof. They should also have an evacuation and transportation plan and know designated safe areas in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Have an Emergency Kit

A good emergency preparation kit includes supplies that will sustain a senior for at least 72 hours if help doesn’t arrive. Keep your kit in an accessible location, because you never know when you might have to grab it in a hurry. The contents of a kit may vary a bit from person to person, but there arre essentials that each one should have. Visit this resource from Ready PA for a list of essential items to include, in addition to other items you might want to add, depending on your circumstances and needs.

Build a Communication Plan

In the event of a crisis, clear communication is crucial. Seniors and their families should know how to contact each other and where to meet during an emergency. A senior’s caregiver should also be informed about this information.

Practice Your Plan with Everyone Involved

Seniors, their families, and their caregivers should regularly review, revise, and practice their emergency preparedness plan to ensure everyone knows what to do until they’re fully comfortable with it.

Preparing Your Home

Seniors should take proactive measures to prepare their homes for emergencies. This includes having their HVAC system inspected annually, ensuring their fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors work optimally, and identifying if their house is in a high-risk area. Keeping their homes emergency-ready boosts a senior’s safety.

Emergency Resources in Wilkes-Barre

Older adults should also familiarize themselves with local resources that provide emergency assistance.

Some in the Wilkes-Barre, PA, area include:

Luzerne County Office of Emergency Management

185 Water Street

Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

(570) 820-4400

Wilkes-Barre Bureau of Public Health Preparedness Services

City Hall

40 East Market Street

3rd Floor

Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711

(570) 208-4268

Ready PA is a website run by the PA Emergency Management Agency that offers a plethora of valuable content about planning and preparing for emergencies in Pennsylvania, including the top risks facing the state’s residents.

CodeRED is Luzerne County’s emergency notification system. Residents can register on their website to receive message alerts for communicating critical information.

Visiting Angels of Wilkes-Barre, PA, Helps Keep Seniors Safe

Visiting Angels of Wilkes-Barre, PA, is proud to provide award-winning in-home care solutions to older adults throughout the area. Keeping our clients safe, well cared for, and supported within a familiar environment is what we do every day. If you have been concerned about the safety and well-being of your loved one aging in place, our goal is to help ensure it can be done with expert skills and compassionate hearts.

Call 570-270-6700 today to talk with us more, and learn how we can assist your family!