September is National Preparedness Month, a time to prepare for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any moment. While everyone needs to prepare for disasters, we’re putting a special emphasis this year on helping older adults be ready when disaster strikes.

Our older community members may be at greater risk from extreme weather events and other potential emergencies, especially if they are living alone, have limited financial resources or have a disability.

Planning ahead is the key to getting through the ordeal of a disaster with the least amount of stress and disruption possible. Here are some simple steps that can help you and your older family members get better prepared now.

Get a kit of emergency supplies.

• Plan for at least three days of food and water.
• Include a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, tools, pet food and supplies for pet or service animal, medications and medical supplies.
• Help older family members to bring eyeglasses, hearing aids and batteries and any assistive devices, such as walkers.
• Make copies of Medicaid, Medicare and other insurance cards plus other important documents. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, consider switching to online accounts.

Make a plan for what you will do in an emergency.

• Plan how you will contact family members and caregivers, what mode of transportation and routes will you use to evacuate and where will you meet loved ones to reunite.
• Share your plan with an out-of-town contact who can help everyone communicate.
• For those needing some extra assistance, make a list with contact information of family, friends and others who can help and be part of their plan.

Stay informed and know how to get updated information during an emergency.

• Register your cellphone and email address with AlertSanDiego, the regional emergency mass notification system.
• Check the city website or city social media channels for the most current information during an emergency.

More information
Get started today on our detailed Emergency Preparedness page

Quick-start Emergency Preparedness Guide
Emergency Checklist for Businesses
Sign up for AlertSanDiego
Ready.gov/Older adults