Winter weather whether it be snow storms, ice storms, or other winter conditions could leave families and individuals stuck in their home for days, often without means of contacting others. If you are an elderly person with certain regular medical needs, it is important to be prepared for winter weather and the possibility of becoming stranded in your home. Here are a few tips on preparing for these situations, if you are stranded and no one is available to help.
- Be up to date on all medication.Make sure you have an ample supply of pills, vitamins, and prescription medications. Be sure you have a sufficient supply; in case the storm lasts longer than expected.
- Have an extra or make up electrical power source.If you have any machines or medical apparatus that run on electricity, make sure you have a generator or battery power option available. You need to make sure you can run your equipment properly if the power is out.
- Have a communication plan.If the landline phone goes out at your home and the nearby cell tower is down or damaged, you will be cut off from people outside your home, who could help you in an emergency. Establish an alternate means of communication in case you need medical assistance immediately.
- Have copies of your medical information and prescriptions available.If you are stuck in an emergency situation, you will not have time to go by the doctor’s office or pharmacy to pick up your file. You may need emergency medical care, and having all of the proper information on hand will speed the process along considerably.
- Have extra oxygen if necessary.If you or your loved one requires oxygen. Make sure you have enough oxygen tanks on hand at all times.
- Have enough food and water to last you for a few days.Your pipes could freeze and you not be able to get water. Always have plenty of bottled water available. Set aside enough food to keep you well fed if you get stuck in your home for a while.
We, your friends at On Call Medical Clinic hope this information is helpful especially to our elderly patients that could be stuck in their homes during a possible winter storm. If you need immediate help with minor injuries or illnesses, we are close by. We are open 7 days a week with expert medical assistance. We have laboratory and medical equipment right on your premises to help diagnose your situation quickly. Please call us at 228 815-5155 if we can help.