As hurricanes may hit Newton, NC, with no early signs, it remains essential for older adults with chronic illnesses to prepare ahead. As reported by the CDC, chronic illness may deteriorate owing to shortages in water and food, severe cold or heat, anxiety, or exposure to a weather hazard.
Supposing you or your loved one are more sensitive to the hazards linked to hurricanes, there are actions you may undertake for heightened protection. Here are things to avoid during a hurricane in Newton, NC.
Things to Avoid During Hurricanes
Not Preparing in Advance.
Do a google search for the term “hurricane evacuation zones” to discover if you reside within an evacuation zone. Certain websites have online tools to search for zones near your location.
Neglecting to Collect Emergency Supplies.
If you are planning to weather storms at home, you require a minimum of three days of supplies and food. It’s better to begin preparations as fast as stores get crowded. Your hurricane emergency kit must have the following:
- COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates
- Hygiene care supplies that include toilet rolls, bacterial wipes, hand sanitizers
- Canned food
- Traditional can opener
- Spare copies of keys
- First aid supplies
- A week’s supply of clothing
- Cards, books, chess, or more non-electronic types of games
- Flashlights, spare batteries, or torches
- Water – a gallon per individual per day
- Battery-charged or transistor radio, spare batteries on demand
- A minimum of one week of medication, medical supplies, or tools
- Sunscreen, shades, or caps
- Pet supplies, like food, bottled water, medicines, and immunization certificates
- Pocket-knives
- Whistles
- Umbrellas
If you or your close kin have furry friends, read further on hurricane preparedness for animals. When you evacuate, you might have to board your animals, as many shelters may just accept service animals.
Ensure that your bags and medical equipment, including wheelchairs, canes, or oxygen canisters are labeled with your particulars.
From home, put original copies of birth and marriage certificates, deeds, social security cards, passports, etc., inside a secure safe or safety deposit vault.
Not Designating Meeting Areas
Organize fixed meeting areas, like places beyond your neighborhood, when you cannot get indoors. Print out the telephone numbers and get close kin or community members who might help as your contact agent.
Not Observing Nursing Demands
When you have some close kin, who might require help in a storm, complete and download a nursing emergency preparation kit and get it close by. The documentation may get delivered to shelters when and if your close kin is hospitalized.
Not Following Alert Systems
Read up on how authorities may provide alerts and news to residents. Access all advanced registration databases in your district for those who require more help in emergencies. Resources are:
- Department of homeland security alerts
- Download the FEMA application
- NOAA weather radio/All-Hazard alert radio
Failing to Consider Respite Living in a Hurricane
If you’re worried about your security or the welfare of close kin in a hurricane, try some respite living in an assisted living community. Senior communities in Newton, NC, hold very detailed hurricane safety protocols established, which may shield your elderly loved ones from danger.
