Winter Storm Tips for Family Caregivers

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Winter Storm Tips for Family Caregivers

Being ready for a winter storm is especially important for caregivers who are responsible for their loved ones. Here are some things that you can do to be prepared.

 

  • Don’t hesitate to reach out to your relatives, neighbors, friends, medical team and spiritual family for help and be specific about what they can do.
  • Make sure key financial documents, health care power of attorney and other advance directives are easy to access. Have copies in a secure online storage app and give copies to a trusted person, like an attorney or family member.
  • Keep lists of important contacts, both in a mobile device and on paper, in case cellphone service is disrupted.
  • Keep a basic supply kit on hand.
    • Water: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
    • Food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
    • Battery-powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries
    • Medications for you and your loved ones
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • First aid kit
    • Whistle to signal for help
    • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
    • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
    • Manual can opener for food
    • Local maps
    • Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
  • Be careful while shoveling the snow after the storm. Snow shoveling is a known trigger for heart attacks and there are ways you can stay safe.

To receive alerts on New York snow storms, visit NYalert.gov.

Sources: FEMA

 

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Prevention Prevention