Environmental Emergencies

Prepare an Emergency Kit:  Be Ready

Extreme weather: Seniors are more vulnerable to heat stroke or hypothermia.
Response:  Move to a shelter, stay hydrated, and dress appropriately. Watch for confusion, fatigue, or chills/overheating.

Power outage: Seniors are vulnerable to battery operated assistive devices not functioning, dropping temperatures, and possible lack of access to essentials like transportation, communication, and necessities like food.
Response:  Ensure battery backups for devices and easy access to flashlights—not candles. Have a plan for back up support to check in.

Earthquake: Seniors and individuals with disabilities are not always as able to move quickly to safety. Prepare a plan and practice.
Response: If possible, cover yourself under a table or stand against hall wall away from windows.

Fires:  Develop a plan and practice fire drills if possible.
Response:  Call 911, stay low if there’s smoke, and exit quickly.

Tsunami:  Know your local evacuation routes.  Develop a plan and practice an excavation drill. Determine transportation plan if needed to evacuate to higher ground. 
Response:  Follow evacuation plan to higher ground as needed.  

Poisoning or medication errors: Taking the wrong dose or combining incompatible drugs. Ingesting a non-edible substance. 
Response: Alaska Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or text “poison” to 797979 to speak with a trained nurse or pharmacist.

High Winds: Winds over 40 miles per hour.

Response: In advance, secure outside items that could become dangerous due to movement during a high wind event.  Prepare for power outages and possible hot or cold extremes.