The Importance of Disaster Preparedness for Tennessee’s Seniors

As our state’s population continues to age, it’s more important than ever for Tennessee’s seniors to be prepared for disasters. Disasters can strike at any time, and often without warning. That’s why it’s so important to have a plan in place and to know what to do in case of an emergency.

There are a few things that every senior should do to be prepared for a disaster. First, it’s important to have an emergency kit on hand. This kit should include enough food and water for at least three days, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a radio. It’s also a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts, as well as important documents like insurance policies and medications.

Second, seniors should know how to stay safe during a disaster. If a tornado is approaching, for example, they should go to a safe room or shelter. If there’s a flood, they should avoid driving and stay away from floodwaters. And if there’s a power outage, they should know how to safely use a generator.

Finally, it’s important for seniors to have a plan for how they will communicate with their loved ones during a disaster. They should choose a designated meeting place, and make sure everyone knows how to reach each other by phone, text, or email.

By following these simple tips, seniors can be better prepared for whatever disaster may come their way.

https://www.ready.gov/seniors
https://www.fema.gov/blog/2017-08-14/top-10-disaster-safety-tips-seniors
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/hurricane/hurricane-safety-tips-for-seniors.html