Disaster Preparedness Resources
Here on the First Coast, we are well aware of the threats that can come along with extreme weather. Hurricane Ian, most recently, has been yet another reminder to us in Florida and others along the coast that we must be prepared for the worst. Jax Hope Inc. has gathered a list of resources that we want to pass along that will provide key actions you could take to be fully prepared for any disaster. We will continue to share and send resources out as we gather more.
During an event, as always please watch your local news for updates as well for your immediate area.
Emergency Preparedness Websites:
Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/
Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/.../types-of.../hurricane.html
Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org/blog/tips/extreme-weather
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Emergency Preparedness Checklist:
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1. Check all your medications.
2. Take inventory of all medications and reorder any that are running low.
3. Write your medication list down.
4. Write down or print a list of all your medications (not just PD medications). Include medication name, strength, times taken and dosages. This customizable medication schedule can help.
5. Make a list of your doctors. Make a list of your doctors and their contact information and take it with you if you need to evacuate before a storm.
6. Water and food preparedness. Medications may need to be taken with a meal and usually water. Calculate five gallons of water per person per day. Buy enough water and food to last three to five days.
7. Stock your Aware in Care kit in the event you need to educate an emergency responder or health care professional about your PD needs.
Order one here:
https://secure3.convio.net/.../site/Ecommerce/1901550047...
8. Have your Medical Alert Card handy. Keep it with you at all times. Print one here.
9. Check in with your support network before and after. Arrange for at least one friend or family member to call you during a weather emergency, especially if you live alone.
10. Practice Anxiety reduction techniques. The stress of possibly losing power or being evacuated could make anyone anxious, but stress can worsen PD symptoms. Download a meditation or breathing app or try to distract yourself by reading a book.
11. Know your nearest shelter. Visit the Red Cross website to find yours. Depending on where you live and the progression of your Parkinson’s disease, you may qualify for a Medical Special Needs Shelter where you can get additional assistance with basic tasks.
12. Fill up your gas tank in case you need to evacuate.
Follow the provided links for even more information.
RedCross.org
The thousands of staff and volunteers of the Red Cross are here for you with emergency aid when you need it most, and also advice and assistance to help you recover from a disaster or become better prepared to face one in the future.
Hurricane Resources for Small Business Owners
We encourage businesses to visit our website for preparedness resources, including a disaster preparedness plan guide, preparedness plan template, and emergency procedures template. For additional preparedness tips and resources, please visit www.FloridaSBDC.org.
Emergency Preparedness
Preparing for extreme weather is a burden for anyone in the path of a storm or fire. People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their caregivers should take these tips into consideration to ensure that all PD-related needs are accounted for when preparing for a hurricane or any other natural disaster: