Natural disaster can strike at anytime. Severe weather affects us all. For those with Diabetes, these natural disasters that are major inconveniences for most of us can be life threatening situations. If you or a loved one has Diabetes, there are a few precautions you should take so that you are prepared in times of disaster.
" First and Foremost, pack an emergency kit with enough supplies to last for a minimum of one week. Your emergency supplies should include the following items.
*Medical supplies including tissues, rubbing alcohol, syringes, cotton balls, testing strips, blood glucose meters and any other items you use in day to day management of your diabetes. In addition, it is a good idea to include a pencil and notebook for tracking your blood sugar levels. Be prepared for emergencies by planning to store your insulin or other medications in a cooler. By keeping ice or freezer packs on hand, you will always be prepared in the event of a power failure disabling your refrigerator.
*Keep plenty of non-perishable drinks and snacks on hand. Bottled water, granola bars, canned nuts, peanut butter crackers, dry cereal, juice boxes or other snacks that you have found useful in controlling your blood sugar level should be kept with your emergency supplies. Plan ahead by realizing that your body may require more food at times when your activity or stress level is increased.
*The regular emergency items found in most disaster kits such as a first-aid kit, whistle, candles, matches, gloves, flashlight and radio with spare batteries. These items can be a major comfort in times of disaster.
* Copies of your updated medical records are a great idea as well. By packing copies of your insurance card and prescriptions in a waterproof plastic bag,along with a list of your health care providers and emergency contacts, you will be prepared should you need medical attention. It is also imperative to remember copies of your diabetic children's medical records, particularly if they are of school age and may be at school rather than home in the event of an emergency.
After assembling an emergency kit, store it in a suitable place where it can be safely accessed in a time of need. Notify everyone in the house of the exact location, along with relatives, friends and neighbors who may need to assist you in an emergency. Do a thorough inspection of the supplies at least annually, updating medical records and replacing items that are past their expiration dates, as needed.
" Make sure other people know you are a diabetic.
If you are forced to evacuate to a shelter or other location, identify yourself as a diabetic as well as relating any related complications. By sharing this information immediately you are more likely to get the medical attention you need. As an extra precaution, it is a very good idea to wear some type of medical alert jewelry at all times.
" Keep your medications safe.
Insulin should be kept as cool as possible without freezing, as well as being protected from direct heat and sunlight. Extremes of temperature and humidity can affect medications, blood glucose monitors and test strips so these items should be kept in temperature regulated areas as much as possible. Package inserts and medication containers should be kept for reference and it is a good idea to check for information on how to use these items in emergency or survival situations. As long as you possess the original prescription containers, you might be able to get refills of your medicine without a prescription in times of disaster. Dispose of any medications contaminated by flood water or other sources of contamination. The only exception to this rule is the case of life saving medications. If the pills are still dry and clean, it is probably safe to use them until you can find replacements.
" Dehydration can be deadly.
High blood sugar can quickly lead to dehydration and if you have been exposed to high temperatures, sweating will quickly cost you precious body fluids. Be prepared to boil drinking water if possible. If this is not an option, the water in your emergency kit may very well save your life. In addition to your bottled water supply, use bottled drinks that don't include sugar or other carbohydrates that might adversely effect your blood glucose levels.
" Prevent is the best medicine.
Diabetes causes severe problems with blood flow in the body and makes it very difficult for you to recover after suffering a wound or a bout of infection. For this reason it is imperative to avoid being injured. Especially in the unsanitary conditions that often follow natural disasters, you should check your feet daily for sores, cuts and blisters. Keep an alert eye for signs of infection, such as swelling, redness or discharge from a cut and seek medical treatment immediately if you notice any of these problems. Early treatment of your injuries may save your life by preventing infections.
" Wash your hands.
Washing your hands is the most important thing you can do to preserve your health in an emergency situation. Be sure to wash your hands often and after any situation that could cause even a slight level of contamination. Hand washing is especially important before administering any of your medications or eating as this will do much to keep you healthy until the disaster has passed.
