Disaster Prep and Medications

Hurricane season is in full swing, and over 2 million people in the path of Hurricane Gustav evacuated this week. There are two more storms headed toward the United States, and more evacuations may be in order.

Do you have health problems? Are you prepared for a natural disaster? The Red Cross includes tips on preparing an emergency kit for quick evacuation in case of hurricanes, but if you have an illness, you need to be proactive and prepare extra supplies.

People with chronic medical problems must be ready to care for their special needs. If disaster strikes, medical help could be far away or reserved only for the most critically injured. Here’s how to protect your personal health and safety in the event of a major storm.

Prescriptions: Most insurance companies and pharmacies limit patients to receive only a 30 day supply of medication. If you live in a disaster-prone area, check with your doctor before there is an emergency, and ask him or her for extras.  Perhaps they have some samples you could pack into an emergency kit, or maybe they know of a pharmacy that will provide partial refills.

OTC: Don’t forget to include over the counter medications in your emergency kit. Are you prone to headaches? Does your arthritis flare in damp weather? Throw some ibuprofen in your bag. Allergic to mold? Add some non-drowsy allergy pills. Think about what you keep in your medicine cabinet for everyday comfort, and put a supply in your kit, too.

Information: Write down exactly what medical problems you have and exactly how they are being treated. Include your doctor’s phone number and an emergency contact. Keep this information on your person at all times; it’s critical that emergency responders be able to find it if you are injured and can’t talk.  Don’t forget your insurance and prescription card.

Be prepared and stay safe!