Natural Disasters, how to be ready for them

Written by

During natural disasters, emergencies, and hazards people with diabetes face particular challenges to their health care. If you are an evacuee or are in an emergency situation, it is of prime importance to identify yourself as a person with diabetes and any related conditions, so you can obtain appropriate care. It is also important to prevent dehydration by drinking enough fluids, which can be difficult when drinking water is in short supply. In addition, it is helpful to keep something containing sugar with you at all times, in case you develop hypoglycemia (low blood glucose). To prevent infections, which people with diabetes are more vulnerable to, pay careful attention to the health of your feet, and get medical treatment for any wounds.

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Preparedness and You
http://emergency.cdc.gov/preparedness

Ready—Prepare.Plan.Stay Informed.
http://www.ready.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency
http://www.fema.gov

Insulin Advice

Switching Between Products in an Emergency
http://www.fda.gov/cder/emergency/insulin.htm
Patients should try to keep their insulin as cool as possible, avoiding direct heat and direct sunlight as well as freezing if placed on ice. Although a physician should supervise when switching insulin products, here are recommendations for emergency situations

Health Advice

Hand Hygiene in Emergency Situations
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/handhygiene.asp
After an emergency, it can be difficult to find running water. However, it is still important to wash your hands to avoid illness or infection, especially when testing your blood glucose or treating a wound.

Keep Water Safe after a Natural Disaster
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/foodwater.asp#water
Water may not be safe to drink, clean with, or bathe in after a hurricane or flood, which can be a particular problem for people with diabetes, who especially need to drink fluids and keep wounds clean.

General Hurricane Recovery Information

Hurricane Recovery Information from FirstGov.gov
https://www.usa.gov/disasters-and-emergencies

Below Content Ad