Hurricane season is in full swing along the Gulf Coast and Southeast Texas. Everyone should be preparing for disasters but, for Seniors, it is especially important to have a plan in place. We encourage you to document your plans and share them with those most important to you. Emergency preparation plans should include supply lists, home safety plans, evacuation routes, local resource address/phone numbers as well as emergency contact information. Below are a few tips you should consider when completing your emergency plans;
- Know the government agencies that address disaster planning in your area. Contact them in advance regarding shelters and evacuation routes.
- Keep your vehicle in good shape with a full gas tank. Bear in mind that traffic congestion will be an issue and that public modes of transportation may not be available.
- If you are no longer driving, arrange reliable transportation in advance. Your county emergency preparedness agency can usually give good advice on transportation.
- Have a bag packed with several changes of clothing and necessary toiletries. You should also include snacks and bottled water. Place articles of clothing in plastic bags.
- Keep sufficient supplies of your prescription medication and a list of your medicines; you can use our daily medication log
- Plan for medical supplies, such as oxygen and other assistive devices like walkers.
- Have an extra pair of prescription glasses if possible
- Always have your personal identification cards; Social Security, Medicare identification, and insurance card with you at all times.
- Keep an address book or notebook with contact information for family members and other individuals
- Place all documents in double bagged, resealable plastic bags for protection from water.
- Consider having a cell phone, portable power bank, and charger. Keep the phone off in order to extend the battery life when not in use
- Remember that you will need money; it is a good idea to keep cash for supplies
- Make arrangements for pets ahead of time; food and water will be needed. If at all possible have your pets micro-chipped or, at minimum, identified with a collar and tag
The CDC and American Red Cross offer great resources to Seniors to assist in disaster preparedness; download these free resources and use them to assist you in formalizing your own plan for emergency and disaster situations;
Prepare now, so that you’ll be informed.
- Sign up for emergency notifications from Montgomery County agencies from AlertMCTX. Fill out a Smart911 emergency profile. Register for both through Smart911. Visit www.mc911.org for details and links to sign up.
- Sign up for emergency notifications from Harris County agencies to receive Ready Harris Alerts. Greater Harris County 9-1-1
In addition, here are a few local and national resources you can refer to for additional information;
- Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
- Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
- City of Conroe Emergency Management
- The Woodlands Emergency Resources
- City of Willis Emergency Preparedness
- National Hurricane Center
- National Weather Service – Houston/Galveston
- AARP Disaster Relief
