Hurricane Safety: Are you prepared?

Hurricane season in the southeastern United States runs from June 1st through November 30th, but peaks from mid-late August through September.  Sometimes, advanced warnings are issued for events such as hurricanes, tropical storms or flooding, but other times there may be no warning.These intense storms can cause massive damage to roadways, and power outages that can make it very difficult to charge important medical devices such as a portable oxygen concentrator.

It helps to PLAN AHEAD for these situations, especially if you or a family member has a lung problem or other health conditions.

To help with planning ahead, follow these steps:

• Do not wait for an emergency to start planning.
• Have a plan ready and have it handy at all times.  Coordinate this plan with your healthcare providers, homecare company, nursing service, and medical equipment company.
• Develop a basic family emergency plan.  Be sure all family members are familiar with the plan.

Have the basic needs and supplies checklist completed below:

□ Water — one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation and 2-week supply for home)

□ Food — it is a good idea to include foods that do not need cooking (canned, dried, etc.) (3-day supply for evacuation and 2-week supply for home)

□ Battery-operated or hand-crank radio

□ First aid kit and manual

□ Medications (7-day supply) and medical items

Remember to try and keep all your devices charged and ready in the event of a hurricane. 

Ask your provider about our bundle kits designed to give you plenty of extra battery life and charging options.  Being prepared is always your best option!

See below for more resources on this topic:

American Red Cross
https://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.

FEMA
https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/FamEmePlan_2012.pdf

2-1-1 National Help Line to local public resources
https://www.211.org/

Centers for Disease Control
https://emergency.cdc.gov/