National Preparedness Month

Did you know National Preparedness Month falls during September? In San Francisco, we all know why we need to be ready. This year’s theme at Ready.gov is all about preparing older adults in the community for disaster.

Ready.gov advises older adults to be aware of the disasters that might affect their area (earthquakes, fire, mudslides…), when/where to shelter-in-place in place if an evacuation is called, and to have a plan for action in place. The National Public Service campaign also suggests tuning your radio to the local emergency station, while also monitoring TV/radio for any warnings. It additionally suggests downloading the FEMA app—and getting weather alerts (if applicable) from the National Weather Service.

The campaign goes on to advise older adults about having a plan in place re: communicating with others during a disaster; planning for food, water and essentials for you/pets/service animals; researching pet-friendly evacuation centers; planning your transportation; having items like medicine, medical supplies, batteries and chargers in your emergency supply kit; including any assistive devices in an evacuation; and making copies of Medicaid, Medicare and other insurance cards.

Check out this page on Ready.gov for more info on helping older adults prepare for a disaster.