Because of climate change, we can expect extreme changes in weather conditions in our county. It’s true what they say that we should hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Another saying reminds us that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. For these reasons alone, it would be best if you have a senior emergency kit prepared for a natural disaster in Tulsa, OK.
We have heard of the contents of general first aid kits before. However, a senior emergency kit may have different contents than the general ones. You may be telling yourself to just prepare for a normal one. It’s all just the same banana. But allow me to stop you from thinking that way.
Our older loved ones, whether we admit it or not, have different needs from us. They have unique needs which may already include mobility gadgets and specific types of medication. It is even more important to prepare an emergency kit for them if they don’t live with you. Just like any other emergency kit, a senior emergency kit at home is the initial step in ensuring that both your loved ones’ life and their valuables are safe, in case a natural disaster happens. Now, you may be asking, what to place in the emergency kit of your beloved family members. Here are the most important ones:
Basic Contents of a First Aid Kit
You are right in thinking that the general first aid kits have the same contents as the senior emergency kits. So, you need to start stuffing the latter with the basic contents. Place cotton, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, isopropyl alcohol, bandages and torniquets for wounds or cuts. Include over-the-counter medications such as activated charcoal, anti-diarrheal medicines, antacids, immune system vitamins, and cough drops. If your loved ones have maintenance medications, they should also be included in the kit. Every now and then, check the expiry date, so you can replace them.
Notes on Medical Condition
This is especially important if your loved ones live alone. Place important medical documents in a waterproof container. These are notes and lists of their known medical conditions and doctor’s reminders, as well. Also include information of medications they are currently taking, and the doctor’s prescribed dosage for each. Lastly, the notes should also contain any allergies they may have on specific medications. It would also be helpful if you include emergency contact numbers that paramedics or rescuers can call in the event of an emergency.
Items for Evacuation
Along with the first aid box, you should also prepare an evacuation bag with the emergency kits. This bag should have water that will last for at least 72 hours. It should also have food, that can easily be eaten like protein bars. In the event of the water running out before your loved ones are rescued, have iodine tablets that can be used to sanitize tap water. Paper towels and a change of clothing should also be in the bag. Flashlights, extra batteries, sleeping bag and raincoats should be added, as well.
Other Important Items
Personal documents, like insurance policies and birth certificates, are also crucial contents for the senior emergency kits. Cash in small changes must also be a part of the kit.
If your loved one is in a retirement community, these items will already be prepared by team members on their behalf. Make sure they have the most important ones ready during their move.
