Floods are a common natural disaster that can cause significant damage to homes and communities. As your loved ones are more vulnerable to the effects of floods, they need to be prepared ahead of time to minimize the potential risks.
Preparing for a flood is not just about having sandbags ready; many other steps should be taken to ensure your loved one’s safety during a flooding event. A survival kit can offer peace of mind knowing that your loved one has the supplies necessary to survive in an emergency.
Here is a helpful checklist of items needed to prepare for a flood in Indianapolis, IN, for your elderly loved one.
First-aid Supplies
A proper first aid kit can help prepare for any minor injuries or ailments that may arise. It should contain adhesive bandages in various sizes; alcohol wipes and swabs; gauze pads; over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen; tweezers; scissors; antiseptic ointment or cream; thermometer; plastic gloves and an instruction booklet detailing how to use the equipment.
All these supplies can be used in case of an unexpected accident or injury, helping your elderly loved one feel safe and secure.
Essential Documents
For those caring for an elderly loved one, it is necessary to prepare for a flood in Indianapolis, IN, by creating an emergency kit. Not only should the kit contain necessary items such as a flashlight and first aid supplies, but it’s also important to include important documents that could be used in an emergency.
These can include legal documents such as power of attorney papers and medical records like insurance cards and living wills. An emergency document checklist should include full name, address, date of birth, contact numbers for relatives or close friends, medical history including any allergies or chronic health conditions, Medicare card number, and insurance identification numbers.
Canned Food
Canned food is an important part of an emergency kit for elderly loved ones. Having canned goods on hand can be the difference between life and death in a crisis. Many people in their golden years may not have the physical resources to go out and find food during emergencies, so it’s crucial to have some in their home supplies.
Canned food has a long shelf life, which makes it ideal for stocking up ahead of time and keeping until the time comes. It also retains nutrients better than other storage methods, making it a great source of nutrition in times of need.
Plus, since most canned foods come ready to eat, they don’t require much preparation or cooking skills, so they can easily access this sustenance even during difficult times.
Flashlight
Flashlights provide a safe and reliable light source during power outages or poor visibility. Flashlights are essential because they allow your elderly family members to quickly locate items in their homes, such as medication, food, water, clothing, and other supplies that may be needed during an emergency.
Additionally, flashlights can help them navigate unfamiliar areas if necessary. By providing a light source, flashlights can also make it easier for elderly individuals to identify obstacles or potential hazards that may present themselves in the dark.