Hurricane season is from June 1 to November 30.  Hurricanes can bring heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, rip currents, storm surge, and tornadoes. All of these can can cause water, power, and gas outages and damages to homes, offices, and roads.  Older adults may require even more planning during hurricane season to make sure they are prepared for the worst.

Caregivers for seniors should be aware of the following:

• If your loved one’s residence has a disaster plan in place
• If their residence is able to withstand hurricane force winds
• Where they would go in the case of an evacuation and how they would get there
• If there is enough food and water to last a week

Already having a plan in place before a hurricane strikes can give you and your loved one a piece of mind.  Here are some steps to creating a hurricane preparedness plan:

• Create a support system of family members, friends, and neighbors.  Write down a list of their phone numbers and inform them of the plan.
• Make sure there is a way to stay informed if power is lost.  Purchase a battery operated radio so you can receive weather alerts. There are some radios made for people that are deaf or hard of hearing.
• If your loved one is not going to stay at home during a hurricane, make sure they are aware of the evacuation route and have a means of transportation.
• Locate an emergency shelter location that is near by.
• Create a hurricane preparedness kit with extra medications, eye glasses, medical equipment, flashlights, food for service animals, and any important documents that may be needed.
• Include your pet in your plan.  Not all hurricane shelter allow pets, so ensure that a neighbor or friend can take them in case of evacuation.