Make Time to Prepare for Emergencies this September

Hurricane. Heat wave. Blizzard. Connecticut has experienced them all in the past decade. And some storms were so severe that it took local authorities and utility companies up to three days or more to reach communities. That's why it's so important for everyone, especially older adults, to be aware, plan and prepare before the next emergency happens.

AARP is helping to promote emergency preparedness among our members and the public as part of National Preparedness Month this September.

It's important for older Americans to evaluate their personal needs and make plans to cover those needs in an emergency.  Take action and plan before a disaster by:

-    Creating a network of neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers to help you in an emergency.

-    Having enough medications and supplies for at least a week or longer.  Learn How to Make an Emergency Kit.

-    Having copies of emergency documents, including Medicare information.

See also: 5 Disaster Preparedness Tips for Older Adults

On a budget?  Our resident cheapskate, Jeff Yeager shares his budget-conscious disaster prepare tips in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7JIEsMxqVw[/youtube]

Watch and share this video for more tips and information.

As part of our efforts, AARP Connecticut has teamed up with the Get Ready Capitol Region campaign to help ensure that vulnerable older people have access to the tools and resources they need to be prepared.

The Get Ready Capitol Region campaign offers information and programming for residents, organizations and businesses throughout the Hartford region. Visit their website for a list of likely hazards, tips for creating a disaster plan, checklists for creating your customized emergency kit and more.

For more information about National Preparedness Month and how to prepare for disasters, visit www.ready.gov