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Hurricane Readiness Checklist for Seniors

Hurricane season can be daunting, but with a little preparation, you can weather the storm with confidence during your retirement years. Hurricane season starts in June and peaks around August and September, but right now is always the best time to jump into action.

Don’t let hurricane season catch you by surprise. Keep reading for our hurricane readiness checklist for seniors.

Gathering Supplies

How, and how much, you should prepare for hurricane season depends largely on your retirement living situation. If you reside in an assisted living facility, many hurricane preparations may be done for you in advance. Ask the staff at your residence about the precautions and supplies they have available to you.

If you reside in independent housing at a retirement community, you may need to do a bit more prep work for hurricane season. Shop for emergency supplies, including:

• Flashlight and batteries
• A battery-operated radio
• First-aid supplies
• Hygiene items
• Non-perishable food items
• Bottled water

It’s also important to have an adequate supply of prescription medications on hand. You can store all these items together in an emergency kit that is ready to go when a storm arrives.

Talk to the staff at your assisted living community if you need special accommodations in the event of a power outage. Consider any medical devices that require electricity, or medications that need to be stored in the refrigerator.

Have A Plan

Even if you’ve gathered plenty of emergency supplies, it is sometimes necessary to evacuate the area. During a storm, remember to stay aware of any government guidelines and evacuation orders. You can do this by tuning in to the radio and staying in touch with staff. This will help you stay up to date on the current weather and how to stay safe. It’s also a good idea to gather a “go bag” containing important documents that you would need to bring with you in case of an evacuation, such as passports, ID and mortgage papers.

Additionally, plan with the other members of your household for what to do in the event of an emergency. This should include where to meet if you are separated. You may find it helpful to write down important contact information, such as phone numbers, that you normally store on your phone. If your phone runs out of battery and you are unable to charge it, you can use this information to contact loved ones on a landline or borrowed device.

Hurricane Readiness Checklist at Advent Christian Village

We have equipped the assisted living facilities at Advent Christian Village with generators, emergency food and supplies. Residents can discuss any specific needs with the staff, such as dietary restrictions, so they can ensure that they have the supplies they need.

In addition, we provide an emergency shelter on campus for all residents who need it, whether they are in assisted living, independent living or skilled nursing. In addition to Dacier Manor, our assisted living facility, the Good Samaritan Center and the common areas in the Phillips Center, Dowling House, Carter House and Smith Riverview apartments all have generated power. Emergency food is also available at GSC and Independent living in addition to Dacier Manor. For emergency shelter, space is made available for members. We put these measures in place to ensure no member of our community is left without safe shelter.

Hurricane season can be intimidating but planning well, and early, can ease your mind. Don’t wait until a storm is already brewing to take a look at your hurricane readiness checklist. Having an emergency kit, tuning into local alerts and having an evacuation plan are all ways you can stay safe this hurricane season.

This blog is not intended to replace safety guidelines provided by the State of Florida. For a more detailed and comprehensive guide to hurricane preparedness, please click here to read the 2023 guide provided by the Florida Office of the Attorney General. 

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