Preparing for Hurricanes: Essential Readiness Strategies for Individuals with Chronic Illnesses

Hurricane season can be an overwhelming time for everyone, but for those with chronic illnesses, the risks are heightened. The unpredictable nature of hurricanes can interrupt essential medical care and access to vital medications and supplies. It's crucial to have a thorough plan in place that prioritizes safety and well-being during these emergencies. This post outlines key readiness strategies specifically designed for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Understanding Your Needs

Understanding your specific health needs is the first step in hurricane preparedness. Chronic illnesses can include a range of conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and autoimmune disorders. Each condition requires different preparations. To tailor your plan, consider these questions:

• What medications do you take, and how much do you need for at least a week?

• Do you have medical devices that need power, such as oxygen concentrators, nebulizers or insulin pumps?

• Are there specific dietary restrictions or preferences you follow?

• Do you have chronic wounds that need attention daily?

  
  

For example, if you have breathing devices, how will they be powered when the grid is down as per safety protocols? Consider how you will keep your refrigerated medications cold (and not just your beer....I know you are thinking about it).

Create a Comprehensive Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for anyone, especially for those with chronic conditions. Your kit should include:

• Medications: Ensure you have at least a one-week supply of all your medications, including any over-the-counter medications you might need. Have a chat with your Doctor about strategies for your medications; including alternatives should supplies become an issue, and dietary alternatives. The NHF  will often give extra medication to those filling prescriptions before a hurricane.

  
  

• Medical Supplies: If you use medical devices, include extra supplies like batteries or infusion sets for insulin pumps. Consider access to a UPS (or outdoor camping power supply unit) for devices that need to be powered while the grid may be shut down.

  
  

• Food and Water: Stock non-perishable items that fit your dietary needs—aim for high-protein snacks, like canned beans or protein bars. Ensure you have at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days.

  
  

• First Aid Kit: Include essentials like antiseptics, band-aids, and any specific supplies relevant to your condition. Perhaps you have a chronic wound that needs frequent dressing to keep it clean. Stock travel sized bottles of cleaning agents, creams, gauze packs and bandages, that you can grab and go should you need to relocate to higher ground or an approved shelter.

  
  

• Important Documents: Store copies of your medical records, insurance cards, and emergency contacts in a waterproof bag to keep them safe during a storm. A Ziplock bag will do.

  
  

Develop a Communication Plan

Communication is vital during a hurricane. Have a clear plan in place to stay connected with family, friends, and healthcare providers. Consider these steps:

• Designate a Point of Contact: Choose a family member or friend to be your main contact. This person can coordinate assistance and share important updates.

  
  

• Share Your Plan: Make sure your point of contact is aware of your emergency plan, including where you plan to go and how you’ll get there.

  
  

• Use Technology Wisely: Keep your phone charged and consider purchasing a portable charger. Utilize apps that provide real-time weather updates to keep informed. Turn off/Disable non-essential apps to avoid unnecessary power drain from your devices, until the power has returned. If possible, add extra credit to your data plan, as a buffer.

  
  

Identify Safe Locations

Knowing where to go during a hurricane is crucial, especially for individuals with chronic illnesses. Research local shelters before the storm. ODPEM.ORG.JM/SHELTERS/ List of shelters is available for download from their official website. If your needs are greater than your nearest shelter, locate the one that meets your needs and determine the safest, shortest route to it. You may have to move to that shelter once it is activated to avoid travel delays.

If moving to a shelter is almost mandatory (I'm looking at you Port Royal and Pedro Quays), secure your home and move to a safe space before the storm and avoid the panic mid-storm evacuation orders, when you are likely to forget important things. This gives you the opportunity to stock your essential dietary and medical supplies at your safe space in good time. .

Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are common during hurricanes and can pose a significant threat to those who depend on medical equipment. Here are strategies to prepare:

• Backup Power: For those using medical devices, think about investing in a generator or battery backup system to ensure continuity in power supply.

  
  

• Cool Storage: If you have medications that require refrigeration, plan how you will keep them cool. Ice packs or a cooler can be effective for temporary storage.

  
  

• Alternative Care Options: Discuss with your healthcare provider about emergency measures in case of power loss, such as non-electric ways to deliver needed medications.

  
  

Stay Informed

Being informed is vital throughout hurricane season. Keep updated on official disaster communication platforms, (ODPEM).

• Emergency Alerts: Sign up for alerts from local authorities to receive up-to-date information about evacuations or safety announcements.

  
  

• Community Resources: Explore what local resources are available, like community centers or organizations that support individuals with chronic illnesses during emergencies.

  
  

Practice Your Plan

Once you have established your emergency plan, it's time to practice. Conduct a drill with your family or support network to ensure everyone knows their roles, especially young children. This practice will help everyone feel more prepared, reducing anxiety during a real emergency.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for hurricanes when you have a chronic illness takes careful thought and planning. By understanding your specific needs, building a comprehensive emergency kit, creating a communication strategy, identifying safe locations, preparing for power outages, staying informed, and practicing your plan, you can significantly improve your readiness for hurricane season.

The key to your safety lies in preparation. Take the time to craft a plan that suits your needs and reach out to healthcare providers and community resources for support. Your health and safety should always come first, and being proactive can make a world of difference when confronting the challenges that hurricanes bring.