Everyone deserves a life of support and safety. But during hurricane season, all kinds of risks come into play. Preparation and knowledge can go a long way in helping your family stay safe.
Hurricane preparedness for older adults means understanding risks, organizing supplies, creating a plan, and staying informed at every step. If your loved one lives alone in a high-risk area, it helps to plan ahead and consider a move to senior living. Communities like ours can help handle emergencies like these with careful planning and support.
Identify Local Hurricane Risks
Every region faces different hurricane risks. For families in coastal or low-lying areas, the threat of flooding and high winds is much greater. Hurricanes also vary by strength, with Categories 1 through 5 designating increasing levels of potential damage.
Before any storms begin, make sure your loved one knows their local evacuation zone—and how to get there. This means they can plan ahead in case the storm is worse than anticipated.
Build a Well-Stocked Emergency Kit
A proper emergency kit can provide peace of mind in uncertain times. Having it ready ahead of time ensures your loved one has access to the essentials they’ll need during a storm.
Here’s what to include for a well-rounded kit:
- Medications, medical devices, and prescriptions in an easy-to-reach location.
- Non-perishable food and enough water to last 3–5 days.
- ID cards, insurance details, and other important documents stored in waterproof bags.
- Flashlights, spare batteries, and a weather radio for vital updates.
- Items tailored to specific needs, like eyeglasses, hearing aids, or mobility aids.
Make sure your loved one assembles this before storm season. This helps reduce the risk of last-minute scrambling. It also means your loved one has access to everything they need to stay safe during the storm.
Establish a Communication Plan
Staying in touch during storms is critical. This isn’t just for practical reasons—though that’s a big part of it. It also means your family always has an open line of communication, which plays an important role in your peace of mind.
Start with a printed list of emergency contacts, including family members, neighbors, and local shelters. Make sure you and your loved one have a fully charged cell phone ready to go, along with a backup battery pack. This way, you won’t lose contact in the event of a prolonged power outage.
It also helps to talk about where to go if you or your loved one need to leave home. Coordinate with family members or caregivers so everyone is on the same page.
Stay Updated with Weather Information
Accurate information is the backbone of good hurricane planning, and trusting credible sources is essential. Agencies like the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local government sites deliver up-to-date details on storm developments.
Encourage your loved one to bookmark these resources or sign up for emergency text alerts from local services. And when electricity or internet access is unavailable, a hand-crank or battery-powered radio is a reliable backup. This simple tool can keep your loved one informed about evacuation orders, storm paths, and other critical updates.
Preparing a Home to Be Storm-Ready
A safe home environment is a vital part of hurricane preparation. Taking time to address potential hazards can prevent injuries and reduce property damage.
However, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Make sure to:
- Secure all windows with storm shutters or plywood to protect against flying debris.
- Inspect the roof for loose shingles or leaks and make necessary repairs.
- Trim trees and shrubs to minimize the risk of branches falling during high winds.
- Remove or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other loose items.
- Make sure all gutters and drains are clear of debris to prevent flooding.
- Check the home’s foundation for cracks and seal them to avoid water intrusion.
- Place important documents, photographs, and valuables in waterproof, secure containers.
- Stock up on sandbags or other flood barriers if the home is in a flood-prone area.
These steps may seem like a lot, but they significantly affect how safe your loved one’s home will be during the storm.
Evacuate as Early as Possible if Needed
Sometimes, staying at home simply isn’t the safest option. When mandatory evacuation orders are issued, acting early is the best way to avoid unnecessary stress.
Help your loved one prepare a lightweight “go bag” that includes key essentials like their emergency kit, a few days’ worth of clothes, and personal items like glasses or hearing aids. Identify transportation options ahead of time if they don’t drive themselves, so you can help ensure they can leave quickly when needed.
Keeping Your Loved One Safe—Together
Proper preparation makes all the difference. Being proactive can always help keep your loved one safe. And our team at Somerby Mobile is always ready to welcome your loved one with open arms. Schedule your visit today to learn more in person!
