By Claire Grimes, MSW Intern, SDSU Social Policy Institute
The California Department of Aging (CDA) just released a new Emergency Preparedness Guide tailored for older adults and people with disabilities. This comprehensive guide outlines essential steps to prepare for emergencies, including what to pack in a go bag or a stay box.
The guide emphasizes five key Readiness Actions to ensure you’re well-prepared for any emergency:
1. Sign up for emergency alerts: Visit CalAlerts.org to sign up for alerts in your area. Consider signing up for alerts in an older loved one’s area too.
2. Make a disaster-ready plan: Create a list of important contact information, decide where to meet if you’re separated from loved ones, and practice your plan.
3. Pack a go bag: Prepare a bag to grab when you need to leave quickly. Include important documents, items for each family member, keys, wallet, identification, phone and charger, and medication.
4. Pack a stay box: Prepare a box with basic supplies for when you can’t leave home, such as food that won’t spoil, water, a flashlight, trash bags, and enough medication for three days.
5. Help friends and neighbors: Exchange contact information with your neighbors and plan how you might work together in an emergency.
CDA’s Emergency Preparedness Guide dives deeper into these steps and suggestions. It also advises evacuating early if you need extra time or assistance. The guide provides additional steps for people with disabilities and in various situations, such as caregivers and pet owners.
While we often think emergencies won’t affect us, being prepared with the right steps can make all the difference. Stay informed and ready to protect yourself and your loved ones.
For more information and additional resources on emergency preparedness, click here.
