Emergency Preparedness for Elders
Take time to think about your daily routine and any specific needs you have, medications, mobility, equipment, or support from others. What can you do now to make sure you can respond to an emergency and recover from a disaster that disrupts your normal life for days or even weeks?
Personal preparedness starts with knowing the hazards that threaten your community, whether that’s wildfire, flooding, severe winter weather, or earthquake, and understanding that our peninsula location can mean limited routes in and out, so roads may be blocked or outside emergency responders may take longer to reach you. That makes having your own plan and supplies ready even more important, especially if you rely on regular medications, equipment, or in-home support.
Preparedness also means having essential supplies on hand for your home, workplace, and vehicle. You likely already own most of what you need, the key is gathering it in one place that’s easy for you (or someone helping you) to reach. Your emergency kit should include, at a minimum:
- Water – 1 gallon per person, per day (for drinking, cooking, and washing)
- Food – Non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods that are easy to prepare, including any traditional foods. Choose items you can eat safely, and check expiration dates regularly
- Medications & medical supplies – At least a 7–10 day supply of prescription medications, a written list of medications and dosages, and any personal medical equipment (hearing aids, glasses, mobility aids, oxygen supplies) along with backup batteries or power sources
- First aid supplies – Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, scissors, tweezers, and pain-relief medication
- Electronics – Hand-crank or battery-powered light sources, a portable radio for emergency alerts, extra batteries, and a backup way to charge your phone or medical devices
- Clothing – At least one extra set of warm clothing, rain-proof outerwear, and sturdy, comfortable shoes in case you need to walk or evacuate
- Important documents – Copies of your tribal enrollment, ID, insurance, and medical records (including medication list and provider contacts), kept in a waterproof or portable container
- Support network – A list of trusted family, friends, neighbors, or caregivers who can check on you, help you evacuate, or assist during an emergency, along with their contact information
