Simcoe Muskoka Emergency - Seniors/special needs and emergencies

Special preparations need to be considered for seniors, people with special needs, and individuals with disabilities. Kits should include any special items which might be required:

Prescription eyewear and/or hearing aides
Extra medications and medical supplies to last for 7 days
Copies of prescriptions
Other assistive devices such as canes, walkers, oxygen tanks, etc.
Extra personal supplies such as dentures, cleaners, toiletries.
Contact numbers for family members, physicians, etc.

It is recommended that seniors and people with special needs create a network of family members, friends, and co-workers who can assist them in an emergency situation. The network members should be able to contact the individual in order to alert him or her to an impending emergency. They should also know how to operate any special equipment used by the person. Make and practice a plan together.

Additional tips:

Wear a medical alert bracelet or other identification of medical conditions.
If you require life-sustaining equipment that is electrically powered, notify your local electricity supplier and emergency services. Look into acquiring back-up batteries.
Discuss emergency plans with home care providers and your primary care physician.

For additional information check out the Emergency Preparedness Guide for People with Special Needs/Disabilities from Emergency Management Ontario.

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