Disaster Plans

Planning for a Disaster

Hurricane Katrina was an eye-opener for many Americans. In your area, hurricanes may not be an issue, but what about a tornado or blizzard? A simple power outage? You never know when something may happen to disrupt your self-care. It's never a bad idea to have a plan in place.

Pack - and repack - a kit

Keep a ready stock of diabetes supplies and necessary items in a waterproof bag or bin, and keep them in an easy to reach place.^1,5

• Store three days of diabetes supplies, including any oral medication, insulin, syringes, testing supplies, and candy or fast-acting glucose. An extra glucagon emergency kit is a good idea. Keep extra batteries for your meter or pump, as well.¹
  
  
• Replenish supplies every two weeks so that everything you use and store remains current.⁵
• Pack some snacks to treat hypoglycemia.²
• Include a list of emergency contacts, such as your healthcare team, family members, schools or daycare centers, and more.¹ Make copies of all prescriptions (not just for diabetes).⁵
• Add a flashlight with extra batteries, moist towlettes, a first aid kit, and a whistle for signaling help.³

•  Keep food and water on hand. Consider one gallon of water per person per day for three days, and a three-day supply of non-perishable food.³ Don't forget your pets, too.

Make a plan

Everyone in the family needs to know what they're expected to do in an emergency - before it happens.

• Map out the family. Figure out how you'll get in touch with one another and where you should meet if something happens.⁴
• Talk to the school. If you have a child with diabetes, make sure the school has identified adults who are to assist your child in case of emergency evacuation.¹

•  Wear the tag. Possible emergencies are just one more good reason to always wear a medical ID tag that tells people you have diabetes.

In an emergency

Every situation is different, but consider these general guidelines.

• Identify yourself as a person with diabetes. That way healthcare or relief workers can help make sure you get the care you need. Tell them about any other complications you have, as well.²
• Drink water. In an emergency, your blood sugar may be more likely to run high. This can lead to dehydration. Why? The body is trying to dump glucose out of your system through urination.² So try to take in enough liquid to remain well hydrated.
• Watch for signs of hypoglycemia. Keep a snack with you when possible, in case you need to treat a blood sugar low.²
• Watch out for infections, especially on your feet. Inspect your feet regularly, and try to avoid walking through contaminated water or injuring your feet.²

•  Test your blood sugar. Keep a close eye on your blood sugar as much as possible. Stressful situations can cause your body to respond in unexpected ways.