DISASTEROLDER RESOURCE GUIDE forADULTS JUNE/JULY 2020 ELDER UPDATE — S P E C IA L E D IT IO N VOLUME 31, NUMBER 2 Governor Message From Ron DeSantis the Secretary Secretary Richard Prudom As your Gover- tion efforts as well. Since my first day Florida Department of Elder Affairs nor, there is noth- in office, I have remained committed to ing more impor- statewide hurricane recovery while also The Florida Floridians may wish to utilize during tant to me than working to ensure Florida is prepared Department of standard preparations, such as taking the safety of every single Floridian, for all future storms, catastrophes, and Elder Affairs has published a state- advantage of stores that offer early especially Florida’s 5.5 million older other natural disasters. Since January wide Disaster Resource Guide for shopping hours to stock a disaster kit, adults. Although we are dealing with 2019, I have worked with the Florida over 20 years. Each year, as hurricane or services that deliver goods directly the coronavirus global pandemic, we Division of Emergency Management season approaches, the Department to your door. must prepare for the upcoming Hur- and FEMA to award more than $1.6 pulls together tool kits, articles, and As you prepare yourself and your fami- ricane Season. In the last four years, billion in hurricane recovery dollars. resource lists to help older Florid- lies for the hurricane season, you should Florida has experienced the landfall of We have also been working with pri- ians prepare for natural disasters and also know Governor Ron DeSantis has four hurricanes, including Hurricanes vate-sector partners, state agencies, and mitigate potential damage. The Guide, been working tirelessly with the Florida Michael and Irma, which had devastat- local governments year-round, to deter- traditionally, has focused on named Division of Emergency Management ing impacts on Northwest and South- mine best practices, assess outstanding hurricanes, tropical depressions, torna- and the Federal Emergency Manage- west Florida. These storms have shown needs and ensure residents statewide does, floods, and other extreme weather ment Agency on both hurricane prep- why it is incredibly important for every are equipped for disasters. conditions. With the arrival of COVID- aration and hurricane recovery. The 19, the 2020 Disaster Resource Guide family to stay prepared. As we enter Along with the First Lady Casey DeSantis, Governor has simultaneously directed the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season, I presented us with new opportunities the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan my administration has also focused on and new challenges. urge all Floridians to be ready and have making mental health a priority follow- for Florida’s recovery from the current a disaster plan. This means knowing ing any disaster. That is why we estab- The Guide keeps the core content each health crisis. The safety and well-being where to go during an evacuation. This lished Florida’s first disaster recovery person needs before, during, and after of Florida’s older residents continue to also means having a stocked disaster mental health coordinator, making our a major storm comes ashore: prepa- be the highest priorities of Governor kit with enough supplies to last at least state a leader in this field. Additionally, ration checklists, healthcare updates, DeSantis and the State of Florida. seven days, including non-perishable with the First Lady’s “Hope for Healing” and needed service contact numbers. To help benefit the mental health of food, water, medication, and copies of campaign, we are laser focused on mak- We’ve added new content that specifi- important documents. seniors as we all face these unprec- ing sure everyone recovers mentally cally looks at preventive measures for edented times, the Department of Elder As you prepare, I assure you the state and physically from recent storms. COVID-19, and we’ve updated articles Affairs has launched several new initia- has been working hard on our prepara- to include special precautions that older Continued on page 22 Continued on page 22
June/July 2020 A LOOK INSIDE Hurricane Readiness...... 2 MORE ON Coronavirus...... 12 Manufactured Homes and Hurricanes...... 2 FEATURE PAGE 16 Running Essential Errands...... 12 Key Facts About Hurricane Readiness...... 3 Advice for Higher Risk Individuals...... 13 Weather Extremes...... 4 Getting Tested for COVID-19...... 14 Be Alert and Seek Shelter From Tornadoes...... 4 Disaster Supply Kit...... 16 FLOODS: Be Prepared and Stay Safe...... 5 Disaster Supply Checklist...... 17 Protect Your Family...... 6 Protect Your Home...... 18 Stay in the Know About Roadway Conditions...... 6 Homeowners Insurance Annual Check-up...... 18 Plan Ahead, Refill Your Prescriptions...... 6 After the Storm Has Passed...... 19 Don't Forget to Include Pets in Your Disaster Plan ..... 7 Recovery Efforts...... 20 American Red Cross Safe and Well Website...... 7 Keeping Safe After a Disaster: What to Do...... 20 Special Needs...... 8 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers...... 21 Hearing Impairment...... 8 Always Practice Generator Safety...... 21 Seeking Medical Care...... 9 Elder Resources...... 23 Information for Individuals With Special Needs...... 10 Disaster Contact Information...... 24 Florida Special Needs Registries...... 11 @ElderAffairs ELDERAFFAIRS.ORG @ElderAffairs SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 2 HURRICANE READINESS Disaster Resource Guide
ELDER UPDATE (USPS 403-710/ISSN 1060-4545) Elder Update is a bimonthly publication mailed in state to Florida residents at no cost to recipients. Out of state, Elder Update may be accessed at e ld e r a ff a ir s .o r g . Ron DeSantis Governor Richard Prudom Secretary Rebecca Roberts Communications Director Liz Jameson Editor Haven Capone Layout Editor & Graphic Design Elder Update welcomes submissions from readers. However, due to the volume of Manufactured Homes and Hurricanes submissions, acknowledgements cannot be mailed. Articles Manufactured homes have been the was a major reason for failure • The roof must be securely attached selected for publication must choice of countless seniors in Florida at points of connection of main to the frame, with no loose panels. provide accurate information since the first ones were built right after members, which allowed the to Florida’s elders about World War II. In the 60 years since winds to penetrate the home’s • The addition must be properly and aging-related programs and then, construction and windstorm airtight envelope and led to securely attached to the home. services and complement the safety requirements for manufactured failure of the entire structure. Community Living Department’s mission. The homes have been strengthened many Sometimes, simply caulking and When living in a manufactured home editor reserves the right to edit times, most recently in the aftermaths painting the home will help seal it. community, homeowners can prepare submitted material. of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and the for disasters by following these steps: back-to-back batterings of the 2004 and • If a home has a roof-over, or a Department of Elder Affairs 2005 hurricane seasons. one-piece membrane roof cover, • If you are a winter Floridian, 4040 Esplanade Way check for adequate fasteners. ensure that the community Home Maintenance office knows when you are in Tallahassee, Florida 32399-7000 and Preparation Home Additions Phone: 850-414-2000 Florida and when you are not. TDD: 850-414-2001 Things that should be checked at least A Florida Department of Highway annually, preferably by knowledgeable Safety and Motor Vehicles report found • The community should know the professionals, include the following: that when home additions – such as addresses of your other residences, POSTMASTER : as well as those phone numbers, Send address changes to: carports, garages, screened rooms, and • The tie-down and anchoring sheds – were damaged or destroyed, to inform you about the condition Elder Update system. Especially in older of your home and to assist in Department of Elder Affairs they often damaged the home itself. Fly- homes, this should include (1) ing debris from additions also damaged taking a census of residents. 4040 Esplanade Way possible rusting of anchors and Tallahassee, Florida 32399-7000 some homes. Homeowners should have • When you leave Florida, all connections, (2) tightening of the following items checked, preferably tie-down straps, and (3) possible items in and around your home Periodicals postage paid at Tallahassee, by a licensed aluminum contracting should be secured against wind. Florida, and additional offices. upgrading of the system by adding company: of anchors and straps wherever a For more information on manufactured In accordance with United States home’s construction will allow. • The posts must be securely homes in Florida, go to fmha.org or attached to the ground. Postal Service regulations, the Florida • Checking for possible wood rot builtstronger.com. Department of Elder Affairs publishes and termite damage. In the most • The posts must be securely Source: Florida Manufactured Housing and distributes five regular issues and recent hurricanes, investigators attached to the roof. Association one special edition of Elder Update found that in older homes, this each year. To view Elder Update’s 2018 Statement of Ownership form, please email your request to information@ elderaffairs.org or call 850-414-2000. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 - November 30, with the peak season from mid-August to late October. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide HURRICANE READINESS 3 KEY FACTS ABOUT HURRICANE READINESS If you are under a hurricane watch or • A battery-powered radio, flashlights, warning, here are some basic steps to and extra batteries. take to prepare for the storm: • Sleeping bags or extra blankets. • Learn about your community’s emergency plans, warning signals, • Water-purifying supplies, such as evacuation routes, and locations of chlorine or iodine tablets or unscent- emergency shelters. ed, ordinary household chlorine bleach. • During the COVID-19 pandemic, alternatives to emergency shelters • Prescription medicines and special that could incorporate social distanc- medical needs. ing may be available. These may • Baby food and/or prepared formula, include the use of hotels and motels diapers, and other baby supplies. • Secure any items outside which may If You Are Ordered or other lodging. damage property in a storm, such as NOT to Evacuate • Disposable cleaning cloths, such as bicycles, grills, propane tanks, etc. The great majority of injuries during • Identify potential home hazards and “baby wipes” for the whole family a hurricane are cuts caused by flying know how to secure or protect them to use in case bathing facilities are • Cover windows and doors with ply- wood or boards. Officials with the glass or other debris. Other injuries before the hurricane strikes. Be pre- not available. include puncture wounds resulting from pared to turn off electrical power National Hurricane Center no longer • Personal hygiene supplies, such as advise taping windows. exposed nails, metal, or glass, and bone when there is standing water, fallen fractures. To get through the storm in power lines, or before you evacu- soap, toothpaste, sanitary napkins, etc. • Put livestock and family pets in a the safest possible manner: ate. Turn off gas and water supplies safe area. Due to food and sanitation before you evacuate. Secure struc- • An emergency kit for your car with requirements, emergency shelters • Monitor the radio or television for turally unstable building materials. food, flares, booster cables, maps, cannot accept animals. weather conditions, if possible. • Buy a fire extinguisher, and make tools, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, • Stay indoors until the authorities sleeping bags, etc. • Place vehicles under cover, if at all sure your family knows where to possible. declare the storm is over. find it and how to use it. You can find more information on • Do not go outside, even if the weath- emergency plans and supply kits at • Fill sinks and bathtubs with water as • Locate and secure your important an extra supply for washing. er appears to have calmed—the calm papers, such as insurance policies, ready.gov. “eye” of the storm can pass quickly, wills, licenses, stocks, etc. Preparing to Evacuate • Adjust the thermostat on refrigera- leaving you outside when strong Expect the need to evacuate and prepare tors and freezers to the coolest pos- winds resume. • Post emergency phone numbers at sible temperature. every phone and on the refrigerator. for it. The National Weather Service • Stay away from all windows and will issue a hurricane watch when there If You Are Ordered to Evacuate exterior doors, seeking shelter in a • Inform local authorities about any is a threat to coastal areas of hurricane Because of the destructive power of bathroom or basement. Bathtubs can special needs, i.e., elderly or bed- conditions within 24-36 hours. a hurricane, you should never ignore provide some shelter if you cover ridden people, or anyone with a an evacuation order. Authorities will yourself with plywood or other disability. When a hurricane watch is issued, you should: be most likely to direct you to leave if materials. • Make plans to ensure your pets’ safety you are in a low-lying area, or within • Fill your automobile’s gas tank. the greatest potential path of the storm. • Prepare to evacuate to a shelter (or at floridadisaster.org/planprepare/ publicly announced alternatives to pet-plan. • If no vehicle is available, make Be aware that most shelters and some hotels do not accept pets. If a hurricane traditional shelters during the pan- Emergency Supplies arrangements with friends or fam- demic) or to a neighbor’s home (pref- ily for transportation. warning is issued for your area or you You Will Need are directed by authorities to evacuate erably where you can still practice You should stock your home with sup- • Fill your clean water containers. the area: social distancing) if your home is plies that may be needed during the damaged, or if you are instructed emergency period. At a minimum, • Review your emergency plans and • Take only essential items with you. to do so by emergency personnel. these supplies should include: supplies, checking to see if any items are missing. • If you have time, turn off the gas, For more information, call CDC at • COVID-19 supplies: disinfecting electricity, and water. 800-CDC-INFO (English and Span- wipes, masks, disposable gloves, • Tune in the radio or television for ish) or 888-232-6348 (TTY) or visit weather updates. • Disconnect appliances to reduce the and hand sanitizer. likelihood of electrical shock when cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes. For updates regarding the COVID-19 pan- • Several clean containers for water, • Listen for disaster sirens and warn- power is restored. ing signals. demic as it relates to hurricane pre- large enough for a 3-5 day supply • Make sure your automobile’s emer- paredness, call 866-779-6121 or email of water (about five gallons for each • Prepare an emergency kit for your gency kit is ready. [email protected]. person). car with food, flares, booster cables, • Follow the designated evacuation • A 3-5 day supply of non-perishable maps, tools, a first aid kit, fire extin- guisher, sleeping bags, etc. routes—others may be blocked— food. and expect heavy traffic. • A first aid kit and manual. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 4 WEATHER EXTREMES Disaster Resource Guide
THE FUJITA SCALE The Fujita scale (F-scale) uses observed damage to determine a tornado’s wind speed.
Gale Tornado; E F 0 65-85 mph Moderate Tornado; E F 1 86 -110 mph Significant Tornado; E F 2 111-135 mph Severe Tornado; E F 3 136-165 mph Devastating Tornado; E F 4 166-200 mph Incredible Tornado; E F 5 200 + mph BE ALERT AND SEEK SHELTER FROM TORNADOES A tornado is defined as a violently rotating column of Environmental Clues in manufactured (mobile) homes; or air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. In an people who may not understand the average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide, • Dark, often greenish sky warning due to a language barrier. resulting in 60 deaths and more than 1,300 injuries. • Wall cloud If a Warning Is Issued Tornadoes can occur anywhere, and at any time of the year. In the Southeast region, peak tornado occurrence • Large hail • In a home or building, move to a pre- begins in March and lasts through May. • Loud roar, similar to a freight train designated shelter, such as a basement. Tornadoes are also closely associated with hurri- • Some tornadoes appear as a visible funnel • If an underground shelter is not available, move canes and often occur during hurricane season, June extending only partially to the ground to an interior room or hallway on the lowest 1 through November 30. The Southeast is also suscep- floor, and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. tible to waterspouts – weak tornadoes that form over • Some tornadoes are clearly visible warm water. Waterspouts sometimes move inland, while others are obscured by rain • Stay away from windows. become tornadoes, and cause damage and injuries. or nearby low-hanging clouds. • Get out of automobiles. Tornado Safety Before the Storm Know What to Listen For • Do not try to outrun a tornado in your • A Tornado Watch is issued when • Develop a plan for you and your family for car; instead, leave it immediately. tornadoes are possible in your area. home and work, and when outdoors. • If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat Remain alert for approaching storms. • Participate in frequent drills. in a nearby ditch or depression. • A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado • Know the county in which you live, and • Manufactured (mobile) homes, even if has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. stay tuned to weather bulletins. tied down, offer little protection from Move to your pre-designated place of safety. tornadoes and should be abandoned. • Keep a highway map nearby to monitor the • Stay informed of weather conditions by tuning storm’s movement from weather bulletins. Each year, many people are killed or seriously injured in to local radio and television stations or by tornadoes despite advance warning. Some may by listening to a NOAA weather radio for • Listen to radio and television for information. not hear the warning while others may have received the latest tornado watches and warnings. • If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the the warning but did not believe a tornado would Remember, tornadoes occasionally develop in areas latest forecasts, and take necessary action actually impact them. After you have received the in which no severe thunderstorm watch or warning if threatening weather is possible. warning or observed threatening skies, you must make the decision to seek shelter before the storm is in effect, so listen for that information as well. • Know who is most at risk: people in Remain alert! arrives. It could be the most important decision you automobiles; the elderly, very young, and will ever make. physically or mentally impaired; people SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide WEATHER EXTREMES 5
BE PREPARED Family Emergency Plan
AND STAY SAFE Your family may not be together when disaster FLOODS strikes, so you need to consider how you will Floods can happen to anyone, almost anywhere, any- RECOVERING FROM A FLOOD find each other in an emergency. Have a plan time, and they can happen fast. So whether you live • DO NOT return to your home until approval has ready ahead of time, outlining for yourself, your near the water or not, you should always be ready. The been given by local officials. friends, and your family where you will meet following tips will help you prepare in advance, keep and how you will stay in touch. You can visit you safe during, and recover after a flood: • Check for structural damage before reentering your floridadisaster.org/planprepare to build your home to avoid being trapped in a building collapse. custom family emergency plan. BEFORE A FLOOD • Make copies of important documents (mortgage • If your home sustained damage from the flood, you will need to do the following: Escape Routes: Determine primary and alternate papers, insurance, bank information, passport, routes to take to get out of your house. deeds, receipts for any expensive household items, » File a claim with your homeowners insur- etc.). Keep copies in your home and originals in a ance company; Where to Meet: Establish a place to meet family safe place outside of your home, like a safe deposit » members in the event an emergency happens box in a bank. Keep power off until an electrician has inspected and granted clearance for reentry when you are separated. Include both a location • Take photos of your most valuable possessions to into your home; near your home (e.g., a neighbor’s house or yard) and one outside the immediate area (e.g., the (jewelry, antique furniture, electronics, musical » instruments). Keep a set of pictures in your home Take pictures of any floodwater in your parking lot of a grocery store). and store a duplicate set on a flash drive, USB home; and drive, or a CD outside of your home with other » Make a list of any damaged or lost items. Family Communications: Plan how you will important documents. communicate in different situations. Create a • Wear gloves, protective clothing, and boots to clean contact card for each family member. Choose a • Make an itemized list of other possessions, such and disinfect after a flood. Visitfloodsmart.gov for point of contact who can communicate your as small appliances, clothes, books, etc. more information on preventing and cleaning mold. location to other family members. FEMA's • Review and know what your flood insurance policy • Watch out for animals that may have lost their National Emergency Family Registry and Locator covers, and contact your agent to verify that you homes and taken shelter in your home during the System at fema.gov and the American Red Cross have the proper level of coverage. flood, as they may aggressively defend themselves. Safe and Well List at safeandwell.communityos. org/cms/index.php both help displaced individu- • Have an emergency plan: • Check local announcements on safety of the water als find family and friends after a disaster. supply in your home, as you cannot assume that » Visit floridadisaster.org/planprepare for step-by-step instructions on building your the water is safe to drink. Drinking contaminated Family Emergency Plan. The site includes water can cause illness. suggestions for a Disaster Supply Kit, shel- • DO NOT eat any food that may have come into ter information, emergency contacts, and contact with floodwaters. NOAA Weather information on your local emergency man- agement agency. • Discard wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, Radio Broadcasts baby bottle nipples, and pacifiers that may have » Check with the Department of Health via its come into contact with contaminated floodwaters. National Weather Service warnings, watches, COVID-19 information line at 866-779-6121 Metal pans or ceramic dishes and utensils should forecasts, and other hazard information are or email [email protected] for be thoroughly washed with soap and hot water available 24 hours a day for all types of haz- information regarding shelter alternatives and sanitized by boiling them in clean water or ards – both natural and man-made. such as hotels and motels. by immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution Weather radios equipped with a special alarm of one-quarter cup of household bleach per gallon tone feature can sound an alert and give you STAYING SAFE DURING A FLOOD of water. For more info, visit floridahealth.gov. immediate information about a life-threatening • Stay tuned to your local television or radio stations • Prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately. situation, enabling you to take action. Those when flood warnings have been issued, so you can who are deaf or visually impaired can also get following the officials’ instructions. • If your homeowners insurance policy does not cover these warnings by connecting weather radios losses from floods or you did not have flood insur- with alarm tones to other kinds of attention- • DO NOT drive through a flooded area. As little ance, you may be eligible for assistance from the as two feet of water can lift and move vehicles of getting devices like strobe lights, pages, bed National Flood Insurance Program. This program shakers, personal computers, and text printers. any size. More people drown in their cars than is a federally backed flood insurance program that anywhere else during a flood. is available to residents and business owners. For A NOAA radio, with both electric power and • DO NOT walk through a flooded area. A person more information on this program, call 1-800-427- battery backup, should be standard equipment can be knocked down by as little as six inches of 5593, or visit floodsmart.gov. in every home. NOAA radios can be purchased moving water. at stores that sell electronics. NOAA weather Sources: floodsmart.gov, floridahealth.gov, and flori- radios still work even though the nation changed • Keep away from downed power lines and any other dadisaster.org/getaplan. to digital television signals. electrical wires. A major cause of death in floods is by electrocution. Additional information is available online at weather.gov/fwd/noaaradio. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 6 PROTECT YOUR FAMILY Disaster Resource Guide
Stay in the Know About Roadway Conditions Florida Department of Transportation The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) encourages Floridians to stay safe at home amidst COVID-19. If travel is necessary, FDOT’s Florida 511 Traveler Information System is available to Plan Ahead, Refill Your Prescriptions keep you up to date with the latest traffic infor- Florida law requires all health insurers, managed medication. The law authorizes payment to pharma- mation and urgent alerts. These alerts include care organizations, and other entities that are licensed cies for at least a 30-day supply of any prescription notifications about traffic incidents, road closures, by the Office of Insurance Regulation and provide medication. It does not matter when a pharmacist and suggested alternate routes. Florida 511 also prescription medication coverage as part of a policy most recently filled the prescription. provides severe weather notifications and the or contract to waive time restrictions on prescription Silver, AMBER, and Blue alerts for law enforce- medication refills. This requirement includes suspend- This law is in effect under the following conditions: ment, all in one place. ing electronic “refill too soon” edicts to pharmacies. • The person seeking the prescription medication When it’s time to evacuate, check Florida 511 at The time period for the waiver of prescription medica- refill must live in a county that is under a hurricane FL511.com to make sure your planned evacuation tion refills may be extended in 15- or 30-day incre- warning issued by the National Weather Service, route is clear. You can also: ments by emergency orders issued by the Office of is declared to be under a state of emergency in an Insurance Regulation. executive order issued by the Governor, or has • Download the free Florida 511 Mobile app activated its emergency operations center and its available on Google Play or Apple App Store. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing emergency management plan. • Sign up for a “My Florida 511” account at state of emergency, many pharmacies have already made alterations to their normal procedures. Remem- • The prescription medication refill must be requested FL511.com to create custom routes and register within 30 days after any of the conditions described for email and text alerts. ber that during the epidemic, you should utilize drive- through windows and wear a mask to pick up prescrip- above occur, until these conditions are terminated • Follow #FL511 on Facebook, Twitter, and tions to reduce the risk of infection. by the authority that issued the conditions or when Instagram. these conditions no longer exist. The law enables those who are insured or are subscrib- By learning how to utilize Florida 511 now, you ers of prescription medication plans to refill prescrip- During emergencies, you can find further announce- will be prepared if you need to access it during tions in advance of a hurricane. To do this, there must ments at ahca.myflorida.com. Medicare beneficiaries an emergency. For the latest emergency travel be authorized refills remaining for the prescription and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) may information, including FDOT’s efforts in response call 1-800-MEDICARE for more information. to COVID-19, visit fdot.gov/emergency. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide PROTECT YOUR FAMILY 7 Don't Forget AMERICAN to Include RED CROSS Pets in Your Safe and Disaster Plan
If you are told to evacuate, take your pets with you. Well Website Animals left behind can be injured, lost, or killed, and pets left inside your home can escape through In the wake of a disaster, the American Red storm-damaged areas, such as broken windows. Ani- Cross encourages all those affected to register on mals turned loose to fend for themselves are likely the Safe and Well website. This secure, easy-to- to become victims of exposure, starvation, predators, use tool, available at safeandwell.communityos. contaminated food or water, or accidents. Leaving org/cms/index.php, allows concerned loved dogs tied or chained outside in a disaster is a death ones all across the country to search for regis- sentence for them. trants’ posted messages, to see that they are safe. The following are steps to take to ensure your pets’ The site allows people inside a disaster or emer- safety: gency affected area to list themselves as “safe and well” by customizing a message for their • Contact lodging outside your immediate area to loved ones or selecting from pre-scripted mes- check policies on accepting pets and restrictions sages. Survivors can also update their Facebook on number, size, and species. Ask if “no pet” poli- and Twitter status through the Safe and Well cies could be waived in an emergency. Keep a list website. of “pet-friendly” places, including phone numbers, with other disaster information and supplies. If you • You may not be home when the evacuation order Concerned family members and friends can have notice of an impending disaster, call ahead comes. Find out whether a trusted neighbor would search for loved ones in the affected area by for reservations. be willing to take your pets and meet you at a entering the person’s name and pre-disaster prearranged location. This person should have a phone number or address. If their loved one has • Ask friends or relatives outside the affected area key to your home and know where to find your pet registered, they will be able to see their message. whether they could shelter your animals. disaster supplies kit. A pet-sitting service may be The Safe and Well website is also available • Prepare a list of boarding facilities and veterinar- available to help but discuss in advance. in Spanish at sanoysalvo.org. People without ians who could shelter animals in an emergency. • Animals react differently under stress. Outside your access to a computer, without electricity, or in • Contact your county’s emergency management home and in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. need of help from an interpreter can call the office to find out whether there are pet-friendly Transport cats in carriers. Don’t leave animals Red Cross at 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733- shelters in your area and to learn the requirements. unattended anywhere they can run away. The most 2767) to register. Family members outside the trustworthy pets may panic, hide, try to escape, or disaster-impacted area can register a survivor as • Prepare a disaster kit for your pet. (See page 16) even bite or scratch. soon as they hear from them, to reassure other concerned loved ones. • Warnings are often issued hours, even days, in • Service animals for the blind, hearing impaired, advance. At the first hint of a coming disaster, act handicapped, or others with special needs will be With one registration on the Safe and Well web- to protect your pet. allowed to stay in emergency shelters with their site, a person displaced by disaster can provide • Call ahead to confirm emergency shelter arrange- owners. peace of mind to many loved ones. This also ments for you and your pets. helps ease congestion on public and cellular • If after a disaster you must leave town, take your telephone systems and reduces the burden on • Check to be sure your pet disaster supplies are ready. pets with you. Leash your pets when they go outside. emergency responders. As the nation’s partner Familiar landmarks may be altered, and your pet in emergency preparedness and response, the • Keep all pets in the house so that you won’t have may become confused and lost. Wild animals and to search for them if you must leave in a hurry. American Red Cross provides this tool to help downed power lines may be hazards. those whose lives have been affected by disaster. • Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars floridadisaster.org/planprepare/pet-plan The Safe and Well website is available 24 hours and securely fastened, up-to-date identification. a day, seven days a week. Families are encour- petswelcome.com • Attach the phone number and address of your shel- aged to make the website part of their disaster ter or of a friend outside the disaster area. You Sources: fema.gov preparedness planning. can buy temporary tags or put adhesive tape with indelible pen on the back of your pet’s ID tag. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 8 SPECIAL NEEDS Disaster Resource Guide Disaster Preparedness for Deaf Elders Disasters can strike quickly and with- A list of county emergency out any warning. They can force you management agencies can to leave your neighborhood or prevent be found at floridadisaster. you from leaving your home. Local org/planprepare, or on emergency first-responders may not the last page of this guide. be able to reach you right away. What If you are deaf or hard of would you do if basic services – water, hearing, registering with the gas, electricity, telephone – were cut Special Needs Registry does off? Knowing what to do is YOUR not mean you have to go to responsibility! Taking these four sim- a Special Needs Shelter. ple steps before a disaster strikes can make all the difference to you and your d. Shelters – The law requires family in the hours/days following the that you be allowed to go to a event. general population shelter with the rest of your family, even if (1) Be Informed: you require the services of an a. Know your evacuation route(s). interpreter or have a service animal. If you have other b. Designate a post- medical needs such as the use disaster meeting spot of a respirator, nebulizer, or for family members. electricity-dependent medical c. Learn your local emergency equipment, then you should weather broadcast station. go to a Special Needs Shelter (2) Have a Checklist: and should register with the Special Needs Registry c. Cell phone with text message • “I need announcements a. Emergency Contact Information (see above). Keep in mind feature or two-way pager. written or signed.” – If you are deaf or hard of that during the COVID-19 hearing, develop an emergency d. Car charger for cell • “I cannot hear sirens or alarms.” pandemic, there may be phone and pager. communication plan. Ask an alternatives to both shelters and Identify a support network: Only you out-of-state relative or friend Special Needs Shelters. Your e. Extra batteries for any assistive can best identify your capabilities and who can communicate with local emergency management listening device you might needs; select trusted individuals in- you to be the contact person. agency can keep you updated. use, such as hearing aids town and out-of-town, who can form If you or your out-of-state and cochlear implants. your support network to assist you in relative does not have a TTY e. Caring for Your Service case of a disaster. or pager, ask a hearing person Animal – If you have a service f. NOAA weather radio with text to contact them for you. animal, make sure that you alerts and visual/tactile alerts; Carry an Emergency Health Care have the proper identification, or portable AM/FM radio (EHC) card: An EHC card should be b. Weather Alerts – If you are equipment, and supplies for with EXTRA BATTERIES. carried during an emergency. Your deaf or hard of hearing, get a your service animal with you. EHC card will provide valuable infor- NOAA (National Oceanic and g. Portable TTY with mation to those who may need to assist These will be required to check EXTRA BATTERIES. Atmospheric Administration) into an emergency shelter, you. Additional information on EHC weather radio with text alerts and you should keep a copy h. Service animal identification cards can be obtained through your and visual/tactile alerts, of the animal’s identification and immunization papers. local emergency management agency and program it to pick up in your disaster kit. or FloridaDisaster.org. weather alerts for your county (4) Maintain Your Plan and Kit. (instructions will be inside the (3) Build a Disaster Supply Kit. Check/rotate supplies every six months. Disaster Preparedness Resources for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing radio box). Keep it turned on. In addition to supply kit staples such as Other Helpful Information canned goods, can opener, seven-day Florida Division of Emergency c. Special Needs Registry – Carry a pre-printed card that has your Management: supply of medicine, gallons of bottled contact information, contact informa- floridadisaster.org/ Before an emergency occurs, water, masks, hand sanitizer, and basic planprepare. visit floridadisaster.org/ tion of persons to notify on your behalf, toiletries, people who are deaf or hard in case of emergency, and key phrases Nationwide Emergency Email Alerting planprepare to build your of hearing should include the following: Special Needs Emergency Plan. that will help others to communicate Network: emergencyemail.org If you need assistance during a. Battery-operated light source with you. To sign up for text messages from or after an event, register for with EXTRA BATTERIES Some possible key phrases are as FEMA: fema.gov/text-messages the Florida Special Needs to aid in lip-reading and follows: Registry. Contact your local ASL comprehension. For more information about NOAA emergency management agency • “I use American Sign Language Weather Alert Radios, visit noaa.gov. b. Notebook and pen (ASL) and need an interpreter.” for additional information. for writing notes. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide SPECIAL NEEDS 9 GETTING MEDICAL CARE DURING A DISASTER Editor's Note: Some of the suggestions • If you cannot go to your usual net- in this article may be superseded by work pharmacy to replace your local emergency operations centers in prescription drugs, contact your light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Medicare drug plan to find another network pharmacy nearby. If you live in an area that has been declared an emergency or disaster, look • If you evacuated without your pre- for news from Medicare or the Depart- scription drugs or your prescription ment of Health, as the usual Medicare drugs have been damaged or lost, rules for your medical care may change contact your Medicare drug plan. for a short time. • If you cannot reasonably get to a net- Seeing Doctors or work pharmacy, your plan can help Other Providers you get drugs at an out-of-network If you have Original Medicare, you pharmacy. Save your receipts for all may always see any doctor who accepts out-of-network costs. Medicare. This is true even if you must Using In-Network Pharmacies leave your city or state. If you have • You will be able to move most pre- a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an scriptions from one network pharma- HMO or PPO) or other Medicare health cy to another and back to your regu- plan, check your plan’s website or con- lar pharmacy when the emergency or tact your plan to see what temporary disaster ends. Tell your pharmacist changes to its rules will be made when a driver’s license or utility bill as proof treatments. Find out who to contact where you plan to evacuate, and get that you live in an affected area. for your supplies, drugs, transporta- services for your health plan get dis- your list of drugs in case you need rupted during a disaster event. tion to dialysis services, and emer- to call Medicare. Visit the Federal Emergency Man- gency financial assistance if you need agement Agency (FEMA) website at If access to health plan services gets • If you lost your Medicare drug plan it. Call Medicare to get your ESRD disrupted in your area: FEMA.gov/disasters to learn if your Network’s contact information. If you card and do not know your plan’s area is eligible for individual and/or • Your health plan will allow you to get phone number, call Medicare at have a Medicare Advantage Plan or public assistance because of an emer- other Medicare health plan and have care from other health care providers 1-800-633-4227 to get your plan’s gency or major disaster. at Medicare-certified facilities, even contact information. ESRD, contact your plan to see what Paying Medicare Health Plan or temporary changes to its rules it will if they aren’t in your plan’s network Using Out-of-Network and your health care need isn’t an Prescription Drug Premiums make in an emergency or disaster. Pharmacies If you pay your health or prescription emergency Contact your plan for information about Replacing a Lost Medicare drug plan’s premium directly to the plan Card or Medicare Plan • During the pandemic, you may be its out-of-network rules. When buying each month, you are still responsible allowed to get health advice via your drugs at an out-of-network phar- Membership Card for paying your premium on time. To Call Medicare to get a replacement for telehealth consultations. Consult macy, you may be required to pay full prevent disenrollment for not paying on your plan and your provider for cost for the drugs when you fill your a lost Medicare card or plan member- time, contact your plan to find out how ship card. information prescriptions. Keep receipts for a pos- to pay your premiums. If your plan dis- sible refund. • Your health plan will not require you enrolls you for not paying your monthly Replacing Lost or to follow your plan’s prior authoriza- Getting Additional premiums and you didn’t pay on time Damaged Durable Medical tion rules for out-of-network services. (Extended-Day) Supplies because of the emergency or disaster, Equipment or Supplies If you evacuated and you think you you may be able to ask your plan about If you have durable medical equipment • If you usually pay more for out-of- won’t be able to return home for a long getting your coverage back. (such as a wheelchair or walker) or dia- network or out-of-area care, your time, you may want to get an extended- Getting Chemotherapy or betic supplies lost or damaged: plan will apply the in-network rate day supply (a 60- to 90-day supply) of during the emergency or disaster Other Cancer Treatments • In certain cases, Medicare will cover your prescription drugs. Ask your plan If you have Original Medicare, the the cost to repair or replace your period. Save all receipts if you pay whether it offers extended-day supplies out-of-network costs, and ask your National Cancer Institute (NCI) can equipment or supplies. and which pharmacies you can use to help you find other cancer care provid- plan to give you a refund for the get them. • Generally, Medicare will also cover difference. ers. Call NCI at 1-800-422-6237. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or the cost of rentals for items (like Enrolling in a Medicare wheelchairs) during the time your You should contact your plan about Health Plan or Prescription other Medicare health plan, contact your changes in plan rules and to find out plan to see what temporary changes to equipment is being repaired. Call Drug Coverage Medicare to get more information when the normal rules will again apply. If you live in an area affected by an its rules it will make in an emergency or disaster. about how to replace your equipment Getting Your Prescription Drugs emergency or disaster, you may have or supplies. If you have a Medicare drug plan a Special Enrollment Period to join, and you live in an area that has been switch, or drop your Medicare Advan- This article was derived from infor- declared an emergency or disaster, do tage Plan and/or Medicare prescrip- Getting Dialysis Treatments mation found on Medicare.com by the following: tion drug coverage. Call Medicare for If you have Original Medicare, your members of the Department of Elder help. You will need paperwork such as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Net- Affairs Serving Health Insurance Needs work can help you get your dialysis of Elders office. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 1 0 SPECIAL NEEDS Disaster Resource Guide
Information for Individuals With Special Needs
Editor's Note: Some of the suggestions medication, food for service in this article may be superseded by animals, and any other local emergency operations centers in items you might need. light of the COVID-19 pandemic. • Keep a list of the type and Regardless of medical or physical model numbers of the medical condition, everyone should pre-plan devices you require. for evacuation, should the need arise. • Be sure to make provisions The best and safest evacuation choic- for medications that es include staying with relatives or require refrigeration. friends out of the area, checking into a hotel/motel, or pre-admission into a • If you require oxygen, medical facility if medically necessary. check with your supplier If you have medical issues, the place about emergency plans. you can best be supported during a • If you require a respirator or hurricane should be a joint decision other electric-dependent medical among your physician, home health equipment, you should make agency, caregiver, family, and your- prior medical arrangements self. To assist in making a decision with your physician. You should concerning your care, the following also register in advance with information is provided: your local power company. If you have special needs Public Shelters For more information on how to pre- Because some people do not have the pare for a disaster for individuals with option to independently evacuate out access and functional needs, visit of the area, the American Red Cross floridadisaster.org/getaplan. You operates public shelters. Public shel- can register for the Florida Special ters are shelters of last resort, located Needs Registry on the website. Indi- outside of the disaster area and used viduals who qualify for a special for protecting residents who live in for staying in a special needs shelter, the Special Needs Registry and will be needs shelter should contact their local vulnerable areas and structures. contact your local emergency manage- taken to public shelters, special needs emergency management agency for ment agency. shelters, or medical facilities. additional information. A list of local These facilities are not hospitals, nurs- emergency management agencies can ing homes, or hotels. Public shelters Hospital/Nursing Home Transportation is not provided to pri- be found at FloridaDisaster.org, or on available under emergency conditions If your physician has decided that dur- vate homes, hotels, or locations outside the last page of this guide. will accept anyone who is self-suffi- ing an emergency you need to be cared of the county. cient and needs no outside professional for in a skilled nursing facility, such Your Responsibilities • Create a network of neighbors, assistance in performing activities of as a hospital or nursing home, he or relatives, friends, and coworkers Share your disaster plans with a rela- daily living (ADL). she must arrange pre-admittance with tive or friend outside the area. Call to aid you in an emergency. a specific facility prior to the evacu- Discuss your needs and make Special Needs Shelters after a disaster and let them know that ation. You must have a copy of the you are all right and where you will sure everyone knows how to Most counties have Special Needs pre-admission letter from your doc- operate necessary equipment. Shelters. Some are units within Ameri- be staying if your home is damaged. tor stating that you are to be taken to When a hurricane or other emergency can Red Cross public shelters; some a specific hospital or nursing home • Discuss your needs are shelters solely used for those with threatens, continually monitor radio with your employer. and arrangements have been made and/or TV to determine whether you special needs. Special needs shelters with the facility for admittance. This • If you are mobility impaired are available for those individuals who are included in the evacuation area. If letter must accompany you when you your area is ordered to evacuate, gather and live or work in a high-rise require ADL assistance. Basic medi- are evacuated. Medicare will only building, have an escape chair. cal assistance and monitoring will be your belongings and proceed to your pay for hospitalization claims that are evacuation destination. If you have available. Special needs shelters are deemed medically necessary; there- • If you live in an apartment not equipped with advanced medical registered for transportation, units will building, ask the management fore, arrangements must be made in be dispatched to your location. Bring equipment or medications, nor are they advance. If any costs arise from your to mark accessible exits clearly staffed to provide advanced medical your hurricane disaster supply kit (see and to make arrangements to admittance, you are responsible for page 12). care. A caregiver should accompany them. help you leave the building. special needs shelter clients. Shelter Transportation Sources: Pasco County Office of Emer- • Keep specialized items ready, medical staff will be unfamiliar with gency Management and stpete.org/hur- including extra wheelchair your medical condition and treatment. Residents who require transportation ricane/elderlytips.asp. batteries, oxygen, catheters, To learn more about the requirements assistance can indicate this need with SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide SPECIAL NEEDS 1 1 Florida Special Needs Registries by County Florida Division of Emergency Management It is important that you become familiar with the services available within your community before an emergency or disaster strikes, especially during the If you or a family member, during periods of evacuation or emergency, requires COVID-19 pandemic, as alternatives to General Population Centers and Special evacuation and/or sheltering assistance due to physical impairments, mental Needs Shelters may be available. impairments, cognitive impairment, or sensory disabilities, it is important that you are aware of your county's Special Needs Shelter program and its Registry. Please reach out to your county directly to obtain more information about its While all Special Needs Shelters provide a level of medical care that exceeds Special Needs program. basic first aid provided at General Population Shelters, the capabilities of each Special Needs Shelter may vary based upon a community's needs and available All numbers are correct at time of publication. Numbers are updated throughout resources. the year at floridadisaster.org/planprepare/disability/disability-shelters
Alachua Franklin Levy Putnam Paul Myers (352) 258-4300 Jennifer Daniels (850) 653-8977 x102 Leatha Keene (352) 486-5213 Bryan O'Toole (386) 326-2739 Baker Gadsden Liberty Santa Rosa Lauren Marker (904) 259-6111 Tashonda Whaley (850) 875-8833 Amy Johnson (850) 643-2415 Ginny Palmer (850) 983-5360 Bay Gilchrist Madison Seminole Brian Hardin (850) 248-6046 Ralph Smith (386) 935-5400 Leigh Basford (850) 973-3698 Steven Lerner (407) 665-5121 Bradford Glades Manatee St Johns Dan Mann (904) 964-7732 x1602 Marisa Shivers (863) 946-6021 Matthew Myers (941) 749-3500 Tim Connor (904) 824-5550 Brevard Gulf Marion St Lucie Luis Hernandez (321) 637-4070 Rachel Jackson (850) 229-9110 Robert Sullivan (352) 572-1808 Lydia Williams (772) 873-4887 Broward Hamilton Martin Sumter Carolyn Rodriguez (954) 831-3347 Thomas Moffses (386) 466-6680 Susana Garces (772) 287-1652 x1 David Casto (352) 689-4400 Calhoun Hardee Miami-Dade Suwannee Chelsea Ranew (850) 674-8075 April McQuaig (863) 773-6373 Vitia Fernandez (305) 513-7700 Joyce Davis (386) 364-3405 Charlotte Hernando Monroe Taylor Patrick Fuller (941) 833-4000 Erin Thomas (352) 754-4083 Matt Massoud (305) 289-6043 Kristy Anderson (850) 838-3575 Citrus Highlands Nassau Union Bretlee Jordan (352) 249-2704 James Wolfhope (863) 385-1112 x4419 Genie Seidel, MD (904) 557-9174 John Mann (904) 964-7732 Clay Holmes Okaloosa Volusia Maria Haney (904) 541-2770 Cindy Wilson (850) 547-1112 Karen Rossi (850) 651-7150 Lauren Possinger (386) 254-1500 Collier Indian River Orange Wakulla Lauren Bonica (239) 252-3608 Miranda Hawker (772) 794-7452 Carmen Weatherford (407) 836-9319 Jennifer Nagy (850) 745-7200 Columbia Jackson Osceola Walton Shayne Morgan (386) 758-1383 Alice Pate (850) 526-2412 Margaret Hart (407) 742-9001 Donna Free (850) 951-7291 DeSoto Jefferson Palm Beach Washington Vicky Jackson (863) 993-4831 Paula Carroll (850) 342-0211 Keith Wall (561) 712-6329 Connie Welch (850) 638-6203 Duval Lafayette Pasco James Schaudel (904) 255-3116 Marc Land (386) 294-1950 Mike Napier (727) 861-5250 x105 Escambia Lake Pinellas Brad Hattaway (850) 471-6400 Randy Van Alstine (352) 742-4656 Mecca Serfustini (727) 464-3800 Flagler Lee Polk Nealon Joseph (386) 313-4970 Debbie Quimby (239) 533-3640 Judy Robinson (863) 298-7027 SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 1 2 CORONAVIRUS Disaster Resource Guide
RUNNING ESSENTIAL ERRANDS Grocery Shopping, Take-Out, Banking, Getting Gas, and Doctor Visits.
Centers for Disease Control Protect yourself while shopping. • At home, follow food safety guide- Banking and Protection lines: clean, separate, cook, chill- • Stay at least 6 feet away from others external icon. There is no evidence • Bank online whenever possible. As communities across the United while shopping and in lines. that food or food packaging has States take steps to slow the spread • If you must visit the bank, use the • Cover your mouth and nose with a been linked to getting sick from drive-through ATM if one is avail- of COVID-19 by limiting close con- COVID-19. tact, people are facing new challenges cloth face covering when you have able. Clean the ATM keyboard with to go out in public. a disinfecting wipe before you use it. and questions about how to meet basic Accepting deliveries household needs, such as buying gro- • When you do have to visit in per- and takeout orders • When you are done, use a hand sani- ceries and medicine, and completing son, go during hours when fewer tizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash banking activities. The following infor- people will be there (for example, • Limit in-person contact if possible. your hands with soap and water for at mation provides advice about how to early morning or late night). • Pay online or on the phone when you least 20 seconds when you get home. meet these household needs in a safe order (if possible). and healthy manner. • If you are at higher risk for severe Getting gasoline illness, find out if the store has • Accept deliveries without in-person Find additional information for people special hours for people at higher contact whenever possible. Ask for • Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on who are at higher risk for severe ill- risk. If they do, try to shop during deliveries to be left in a safe spot out- handles or buttons before you touch ness from COVID-19 visit cdc.gov/ those hours. People at higher risk side your house (such as your front them. coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra- for severe illness include adults 65 porch or lobby), with no person-to- • Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on precautions/index.html. or older and people of any age who person interaction. Otherwise, stay handles and buttons before you touch have serious underlying medical at least 6 feet away from the delivery them (if available). conditions. person. Shopping for food and other • After fueling, use a hand sanitizer household essentials • Disinfect the shopping cart, use dis- • Wash your hands or use hand sani- with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your • Stay home if sick. infecting wipes if available. tizer after accepting deliveries or hands for at least 20 seconds when • Cover coughs and sneezes. collecting mail. you get home or somewhere with • Avoid shopping if you are sick or have soap and water. symptoms of COVID-19, which • Do not touch your eyes, nose, or • After receiving your delivery or include a fever, cough, or shortness mouth. bringing home your takeout food, Going to the doctor or of breath. wash your hands with soap and water getting medicine • If possible, use touchless payment for 20 seconds. If soap and water are • Order online or use curbside pickup. (pay without touching money, a card, not available, use a hand sanitizer • Talk to your doctor online, by phone • Order food and other items online or a keypad). If you must handle with at least 60% alcohol. or e-mail. for home delivery or curbside pickup money, a card, or use a keypad, use hand sanitizer right after paying. • After collecting mail from a post • Use telemedicine, if available, or (if possible). office or home mailbox, wash your communicate with your doctor or • Only visit the grocery store, or other • Use hand sanitizer when you leave hands with soap and water for at least nurse by phone or e-mail. stores selling household essentials, the store. Wash your hands when 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer • Talk to your doctor about reschedul- in person when you absolutely need you get home. with at least 60% alcohol. ing procedures that are not urgently to. This will limit your potential • After leaving the store, use hand needed. exposure to others and the virus sanitizer. When you get home, wash that causes COVID-19. your hands with soap and water for • If you must visit in-person, protect at least 20 seconds. yourself and others. Source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Division of Viral Diseases SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide CORONAVIRUS 1 3
What You Can do if You are at Higher Risk of Severe Illness from COVID-19 Are You at Higher Risk Here’s What You Can do to for Severe Illness? Help Protect Yourself
• If you think you have COVID-19, let the office know and follow guidance. Stay home if possible. • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when you have to go out in public. • Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. • Use disinfecting wipes on frequently touched surfaces such as handles, Wash your hands often. knobs, touchpads (if available). • Stay at least 6 feet away from others Based on what we know now, those at high-risk for while inside and in lines. severe illness from COVID-19 are: • When paying, use touchless payment • People aged 65 years and older Avoid close contact methods if possible. If you cannot • People who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility use touchless payment, sanitize your (6 feet, which is about two hands after paying with card, cash, People of all ages with underlying medical conditions, or check. Wash your hands with soap arm lengths) with people and water for at least 20 seconds particularly if not well controlled, including: who are sick. when you get home. • People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma • Limit in-person visits to the • People who have serious heart conditions pharmacy. • People who are immunocompromised • Plan to order and pick up all your - Many conditions can cause a person to be immunocompromised, Clean and disinfect prescriptions at the same time. including cancer treatment, smoking, bone marrow or organ frequently touched surfaces. • If possible, call prescription orders in ahead of time. Use drive-thru win- AIDS, and prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune dows, curbside services (wait in your car until the prescription is ready), weakening medications. mail-order, or other delivery services. • People with severe obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 40 or higher) Do the same for pet medicine. • People with diabetes Avoid all • Check with your doctor and phar- • People with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis macist to see if you can get a larger non-essential travel. supply of your medicines so you do • People with liver disease not have to visit the pharmacy as often. Call your healthcare professional if you are sick. If you or a member of your For more information on steps you can take to household has signs of protect yourself, see CDC’s How to Protect Yourself. COVID-19, call your doctor first, instead of going to the office or the emergency cdc.gov/coronavirus department. Call 911 if you believe it is an emergency. 316216A April 3, 2020 10:14 AM SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 1 4 CORONAVIRUS Disaster Resource Guide SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide CORONAVIRUS 1 5 SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 1 6 DISASTER SUPPLY KIT Disaster Resource Guide ASSEMBLE YOUR DISASTER KIT You may need to survive on your own If You Are Preparing Your Own Food after a disaster. This means having your Containers of Water It is recom- The following are things to consid- own food, water, and other supplies in mended that you purchase food-grade er when putting together your food sufficient quantity to last for at least water storage containers from surplus supplies: three days. Local officials and relief or camping supplies stores to use for workers will be on the scene after a water storage. Before filling with water, • Avoid foods that will make you disaster, but they cannot reach every- thoroughly clean the containers with thirsty. Choose salt-free crackers, one immediately. You could get help in dishwashing soap and water, and rinse whole grain cereals, and canned hours, but it could take days. completely so there is no residual soap. foods with high liquid content. Basic services such as electricity, gas, Follow directions below on filling the • Stock canned foods, dry mixes, water, sewage treatment, and telephones container with water. and other staples that do not may be cut off for days, a week, or even If you choose to use your own stor- require refrigeration, cooking, longer. Or you may have to evacuate at age containers, choose two-liter plas- water, or special preparation. a moment’s notice and take essentials tic soft drink bottles – not plastic jugs You may already have many of with you. You probably will not have or cardboard containers that have had these on hand. (Note: Be sure to the opportunity to shop or search for milk or fruit juice in them. Milk protein include a manual can opener.) the supplies you need. and fruit sugars cannot be adequately • Include special dietary needs. A disaster supply kit is a collection of removed from these containers and basic items that members of a household provide an environment for bacterial Maintaining Your Kit may need in the event of a disaster. growth when water is stored in them. Cardboard containers also leak easily Just as important as putting your sup- KIT LOCATIONS and are not designed for long-term stor- plies together is maintaining them so Since you do not know where you will age of liquids. Also, do not use glass they are safe to use when needed. be when an emergency occurs, prepare containers because they can break and Here are some tips to keep your supplies supplies for home, work, and vehicles. are heavy. ready and in good condition: Your disaster If Storing Water in Plastic Soda • Keep canned foods in a dry place HOME supplies kit should Water Bottles, Follow These Steps where the temperature is cool. contain essential food, water, and How Much Water Do I Need? Thoroughly clean the bottles with dish- supplies for at least three days. washing soap and water, and rinse • Throw out any cans that become You should store at least one gallon of swollen, dented, or corroded. Keep this kit in a designated place and water per person per day. A normally completely so there is no residual soap. have it ready in case you have to leave active person needs at least one-half Sanitize the bottles by adding a solution • Store boxed food in tightly your home quickly. Make sure all gallon of water daily just for drinking. of one teaspoon of non-scented liquid closed plastic or metal family members know where the kit household chlorine bleach to a quart of containers to protect from pests is kept and can lift and carry the kit. In determining adequate quantities, water. Swish the sanitizing solution in take the following into account: and to extend its shelf life. Additionally, you may want to consider the bottle so that it touches all surfaces. having supplies for sheltering for up After sanitizing the bottle, thoroughly • Use foods before they go bad, and • Individual needs vary, depending replace them with fresh supplies. to two weeks, and plan for possible on age, physical condition, rinse out the sanitizing solution with power outages at home. activity, diet, and climate. clean water. • Place new items at the back This kit should be in Filling Water Containers of the storage area and one container, and • Children, nursing mothers, and older ones in the front. WORK ill people need more water. Fill the bottle to the top with regular tap ready to “grab and go” in case you are water. If the tap water has been com- evacuated from your workplace. • Change stored food and water • Very hot temperatures can double mercially treated from a water utility supplies every six months. Be Make sure you have food and water in the amount of water needed. with chlorine, you do not need to add sure to write the date you the kit. Also, be sure to have comfortable anything else to the water to keep it store it on all containers. walking shoes at your workplace in case • A medical emergency might require additional water. clean. If the water you are using comes an evacuation requires walking long from a well or water source that is not • Re-think your needs every distances. • Water is used for sanitation treated with chlorine, add two drops of year and update your kit as In case you are stranded, needs as well as for drinking. non-scented liquid household chlorine your family’s needs change. keep a kit of emergency CAR How Should I Store Water? bleach to the water. Tightly close the • Keep items in airtight plastic supplies in your car. container using the original cap. Be bags and put your entire disaster To prepare the safest and most careful not to contaminate the cap by This kit should contain maps, food, reliable emergency supply of water, supplies kit in one or two easy- water, manual can opener, first aid kit, touching the inside of it with your fin- to-carry containers, such as and manual, flares, jumper cables, it is recommended that you purchase ger. Place a date on the outside of the commercially bottled water. Keep an unused trashcan, camping flashlight and extra batteries, battery- container so that you know when you backpack, or duffel bag. powered radio and extra batteries, fire bottled water in its original container filled it. extinguisher (5 lb.,A-B-C type), and do not open it until you need to use Visit floridadisaster.org/getaplan to blanket, rain gear, and seasonal it. Be sure to observe the expiration or Store in a cool, dark place. Replace build your family emergency plan. supplies. “use by” date. the water every six months if not using commercially bottled water. Source: fema.gov SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide DISASTER SUPPLY KIT 1 7
Prepare now for an emergency. When a disaster family’s needs during an emergency situation or Disaster Supply strikes, you may not have much time to act. The evacuation. Store items in an easy-to-carry container following list serves to help you determine what to such as a waterproof suitcase, large plastic storage Kit Checklist include in your disaster supplies kit to meet your box, backpack, or duffle bag.
FIRST AID SUPPLIES HOUSEHOLD ITEMS DOCUMENTS & KEYS First aid kit and manual Home Vehicle Work Household bleach or water purification tablets* Personal ID; drivers license, passport, Social Security card Wet wipes Home Vehicle Work Paper cups, plates, plastic utensils Cash, coins, credit cards Antiseptic wipes Home Vehicle Work All-purpose knife Spare set of house and car keys Nitrile medical gloves Home Vehicle Work Manual can opener Instructions to turn off utilities Cold pack Home Vehicle Work Camping stove and cooking fuel OTC AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE AND SUPPLIES Scissors (small, personal) Home Vehicle Work Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, zip-top bags, trash bags Antibacterial ointment Home Vehicle Work Tweezers Home Vehicle Work Cards, games, books, toys Pain reliever Home Vehicle Work Mask (cloth or disposable) Home Vehicle Work Assorted safety pins Anti-diarrhea medication Home Vehicle Work Cotton balls Home Vehicle Work Travel alarm clock Antacid Home Vehicle Work Thermometer Home Vehicle Work *To treat drinking water Laxative Home Vehicle Work Petroleum jelly/lubricant Home Vehicle Work SANITATION AND HYGIENE SUPPLIES Vitamins Home Vehicle Work Sunscreen Home Vehicle Work Soap and hand sanitizer Home Vehicle Work Prescription drugs Home Vehicle Work FOOD AND WATER FOR AT LEAST 3-5 DAYS Heavy-duty garbage bags* Home Vehicle Work Copies of prescriptions Home Vehicle Work Water (1 gal. per person, per day) Home Vehicle Work Washcloth, towel Home Vehicle Work Dentures/cleaning solution Home Vehicle Work Ready-to-eat canned food Home Vehicle Work Plastic bucket with tight lid Home Vehicle Work Extra eyeglasses Home Vehicle Work Canned or boxed juice Home Vehicle Work Toothpaste, toothbrushes Home Vehicle Work Contact lenses/solution Home Vehicle Work High-protein snacks* Home Vehicle Work Disinfectant/chlorine bleach Home Vehicle Work Hearing aid/batteries Home Vehicle Work Food for special dietary needs Home Vehicle Work Shampoo, comb, brush Home Vehicle Work Medical Equipment* Home Vehicle Work Instant coffee Home Vehicle Work Feminine supplies Home Vehicle Work *Wheelchairs with extra battery if motorized, walkers, cane, dressings, Cereals Home Vehicle Work Toilet paper Home Vehicle Work oxygen & tubes, feeding equipment, etc. Salt, pepper, sugar Home Vehicle Work Razor, shave cream, mirror Home Vehicle Work PHOTOCOPIES (IN WATERPROOF BAG) Shelf-stable milk Home Vehicle Work Incontinence supplies Home Vehicle Work Birth certificate *Such as peanut butter, nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, trail mix, etc. Lip balm Home Vehicle Work Marriage certificate CLOTHES AND BEDDING Insect Repellent Home Vehicle Work Drivers license Complete change of clothes Home Vehicle Work *For personal sanitation use. Social Security card Sturdy shoes or boots Home Vehicle Work TOOLS Passport Rain gear Home Vehicle Work Battery-powered or hand-crank radio/NOAA weather radio Will (including living wills and advance directives) Hat Home Vehicle Work Extra batteries for all devices Deeds Jacket Home Vehicle Work Jumper cables (in car) Inventory of household goods Extra socks and underwear Home Vehicle Work Gas (full tank in the car, a canister for gas generator) Insurance policies (property, health, life) Sunglasses Home Vehicle Work Flashlight and/or electric lantern Immunization records, copies of prescriptions Blanket, sleeping bag, pillow Home Vehicle Work Jack, lug wrench, spare tire (in car) Contact info for your doctor/medical caregiver Folding cot or lawn chair Home Vehicle Work Signal flare Models and serial numbers of medical equipment* Written instructions regarding your medical care PET SUPPLIES Waterproof matches Pre-admission letter for hospital or nursing home** Food and dishes Shut-off wrench, pliers, shovel etc. Bank and credit card account and routing numbers Pet carrier, leash, collar/harness, muzzle Duct tape and scissors Stocks and bonds Medications and pet first-aid supplies Plastic sheeting Emergency contact list (family and friends) Medical records and vet contact information Whistle Map of the area ID tags (one on the pet and a spare) Work gloves Driving instructions and contact info for your destination Litter pan and litter and/or plastic bags Paper, pens, pencils Sewing kit * Necessary medical equipment such as pacemakers, feeding pumps, Toys and blankets IV units, suction machines, wheelchairs, low vision equipment, etc. Small canister, ABC-type fire extinguisher Proof of ownership and/or recent photo **If applicable, a pre-admission letter from your doctor stating that you are to be taken to a specific hospital or nursing home SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 1 8 PROTECT YOUR HOME Disaster Resource Guide Conduct a Homeowners Insurance Annual Check-up Office of the Florida Insurance What does my homeowners contact your agent about coverage in the and require receipts to prove purchase Consumer Advocate association or condo event of rising water from flood (this is before making the next payment up to insurance policy cover? different and often separate from wind the policy limits for replacement costs. The process of getting ready for hurri- damage due to hurricanes). Homeown- cane season can seem so overwhelming Our office encourages homeowners to Before a disaster occurs, check with ers can purchase flood insurance from that many Floridians never get around the National Flood Insurance Program purchase replacement cost coverage to it until a hurricane warning is posted. your homeowners association and on both the structure and all personal with your insurance agent to make (NFIP). The Federal Emergency Man- This year, the Office of the Insurance agement Agency (FEMA) also updates property in order to be adequately pro- Consumer Advocate encourages all Flo- sure that you understand which repair tected at the time of an insurable loss. expenses are covered by your associa- flood maps periodically. Homeown- ridians to make protecting their homes, ers should call the FEMA Map Ser- Replacement cost coverage for antiques, personal belongings, and a lifetime of tion or condo and which will be your collectibles, and other items must be responsibility. vice Center at 1-800-358-9616 or their keepsakes a priority. county engineer to verify whether they purchased separately. Conduct an “annual check-up” of your What should I look for during should consider purchasing flood insur- Ordinance or Law Coverage If a insurance policies by asking yourself an annual check-up on my ance. Remember heavy rains can cause local building ordinance or law increas- the following questions as you review homeowners policy? a small retention pond to rise over its es the cost of repairing or replacing them: banks and cause flood damage to nearby an insured dwelling, the insurance Hurricane Deductible homes, so do not wait until a hurricane company will not pay the additional Can I access all of my This is the amount the homeowner is responsible or tropical storm warning is posted, amount, unless this coverage is a part policies right now? to pay out-of-pocket before the insur- since flood insurance takes 30 days to of the policy. For instance, some local ance company will cover the remain- become effective. building codes may change to require It is recommended that you keep your ing cost of repairs up to the policy Replacement Cost Value vs. Actual specific building materials to be used in insurance policies, along with all other limits. Homeowners policies contain Cash Value re-construction of the damaged home. important documents, in a waterproof According to your policy two deductibles: one is the “hurricane” selection, you may be reimbursed after Homeowners insurance companies container. A separate copy should be deductible (insurers must offer a hur- are required to include this coverage kept in another location, like a safety a covered loss under a “replacement ricane deductible of $500, 2 percent, 5 cost value” or “actual cash value” valu- at 25 percent of the dwelling limit, and deposit box. Include current, date- percent, and 10 percent of the dwelling you must sign a waiver to remove the stamped pictures of the exterior and ation. Replacement Cost Value is the or structure limit, and it is accumula- amount needed to replace or repair coverage. In addition to the 25 percent, interior of your home and your personal tive for the entire hurricane season), insurance companies must also offer a property. Homeowners may consider the damaged property with materials and the other is called an “all-other- of similar kind and quality, without 50 percent limit. using digital inventory tools to catego- peril” deductible (a set amount which Additional Living Expenses rize all home contents. Some mobile deducting for depreciation. Actual Cash Most is applied to all losses except for hur- Value is the depreciated value of the homeowners policies provide additional phone apps allow you to take digital pic- ricane damage). tures of your home contents for report- structure or personal property that is living expense coverage that will pay ing purposes. Should you experience Assignment of Benefits An assign- damaged or destroyed. Depreciation is some extra living expenses if damage a loss, these documents and tools will ment of benefits (AOB) is a legal con- a decrease in the value of a structure or to your home is caused by a covered greatly assist you in preparing a physi- tracting tool that gives a third party personal property due to age, wear and peril and your property is uninhabit- cal inventory list and the claims adjuster (often a restoration company or contrac- tear, or other factors. For this reason, it able. Policies may designate a limit of to expedite the settlement of your claim. tor) the authority to file a claim, make is important to keep all documents and coverage for additional living expenses, repair decisions, and collect insurance receipts pertaining to replacement of but this does not obligate the insurance What does my homeowners payments on behalf of a homeowner. items and completion of repairs. company to pay this amount in advance insurance policy cover? Abuse of the AOB tool occurs when Dwelling The insurer must initially or in full. You must keep receipts for contractors inflate their bills and hire pay at least the actual cash value of all expenses and submit them to the Many policyholders renew their policy lawyers when the insurance carrier the insured loss, less any applicable insurance company for reimbursement. every year without reviewing the cov- refuses to pay, or collects insurance deductible. The insurer shall pay any For other good ideas on how to get ready erage limits. Insurance contracts are proceeds and never starts (or partially remaining amounts necessary to per- for hurricane season, including ways to complex, legal documents. That’s why completes) the repair work. This 2019 form such repairs as work is performed simplify hurricane preparedness and we recommend all policyholders review legislative session, our office encour- and expenses are incurred. If a total prepare a home inventory, please visit the Outline of Coverage and Checklist aged lawmakers to take action in order loss of a dwelling occurs, the insurer myfloridacfo.com or call the Depart- documents that accompany their poli- to protect homeowners from this type shall pay the replacement cost coverage ment of Financial Services at 1-877-My- cy. These documents provide valuable of abuse. In the meantime, homeowners without reservation or holdback of any FLCFO (1-877-693-5236). information about what the policy actu- must be careful to vet contractors appro- depreciation in value. ally covers. Give special attention to priately and read all contract language The Office of the Insurance Consumer the amount of the hurricane deductible. before signing any repair contracts. For Personal Property There are two Advocate is committed to finding solu- Right now, the majority of Floridians more information on this emerging options: the insurer must offer coverage tions to insurance issues facing Flo- do not have enough money set aside to trend, please visit: myfloridacfo.com/ under the replacement cost valuation ridians, calling attention to question- cover their out-of-pocket expenses, like Division/Consumers/Assignmentof- without holdback for any depreciation able insurance practices, promoting a a deductible, in the event of a hurricane. Benefits.htm in value (whether or not the insured viable insurance market responsive to replaces the property) or the insurer the needs of Florida’s diverse popula- Reviewing these documents will help Flood Insurance The majority of you anticipate those expenses. may offer coverage that limits the ini- tion, and assuring that rates are fair homeowners policies do not cover flood tial payment to actual cash value of and justified. damage. Please check your policy or the personal property to be replaced SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide PROTECT YOUR HOME 1 9 Protect Your Home, Even After the Storm Has Passed
Patrick Fargason Unlicensed activity occurs when a person who is not licensed performs or offers Florida Department of Business to perform a job or service that requires licensure from the Florida Department and Professional Regulation of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). During a declared State of Emergency, the penalty for unlicensed construction activity becomes a third- Over the last three years, the state of Florida has fallen victim to four major hur- degree felony. ricanes. Storms named Hermine, Matthew, and Irma touched nearly every section of the peninsula and panhandle, and left thousands of homes and businesses either Unlicensed contractors prey on the innocent victims of hurricanes. According to damaged or destroyed, and more than a million customers in the state lost power. DBPR’s Division of Regulation, a total of 424 unlicensed activity complaints have been made in the aftermath of the Michael. Sadly, there are many more cases that While those three storms were both dangerous and deadly, they were nothing haven’t been reported. compared to the awesome power of Hurricane Michael, which made landfall last October in Bay County as a category five hurricane. Michael’s strength was As another hurricane season looms on the horizon, it’s important to have a plan rivaled only by Hurricane Andrew 16 years prior. Its impact was felt throughout to deal with the aftermath of any natural disaster. Here are some steps to avoid the panhandle region of Florida and many of those areas are still recovering nearly becoming a victim of an unlicensed scam: a year later. Understand which repair services require a state contractor’s license. DBPR Hurricanes leave devastation in their wake, but they can also be a perfect breeding licenses and regulates construction businesses that modify the structure of a ground for unlicensed activity. Like the storms themselves, unlicensed contractors building or home. This chart can help you in determining whether the help you can leave customers in dire financial straits and their homes in disrepair. Despite need requires a license. an estimated $5 billion in property losses due to Hurricane Michael, unlicensed Make sure to check with your local building department for additional informa- contractors can cost an individual home owner suffering from property damage tion on requirements for supplementary permits and licenses. thousands of dollars more. Ask for multiple opinions. If your home or business requires repair following a natural disaster, request estimates from more than one contractor. This lets you see whether you are getting a fair assessment. In addition, check the references of each contractor or construction business you are interested in hiring. Use good judgment when signing a contract and making payments. Do not sign a contract, make a payment, or provide personal or financial information to a contractor on the spot. Typical contracting scams involve pressuring consumers into making a decision on the spot by greatly reducing the price. It is important to recognize these high-pressure sales strategies and make informed decisions. Always get everything in writing. This includes a thorough description of work to be completed, the total cost of the repairs, and a projected date of completion. Construction Trades Requiring a State License Always verify a contractor’s license first. Per Florida Statute, contractors must include their license number on all advertising, including their business cards. You • Air-Conditioning • Plumber can verify a contractor’s name or license number by visiting myfloridalicense. com, calling the DBPR Customer Contact Center at (850) 487-1395, Ext. 110, or • Building Contractor • Pool/Spa by downloading the free DBPR Mobile app available in the iTunes and Google • Electrician • Roofer Play app stores. When verifying a license, make sure the license is active and not delinquent, suspended, revoked, or on probation. You can also check for public • General Contractor • Sheet Metal complaints against the contractor. • Home Inspection • Solar Report any unlicensed activity. Consumers should report suspected unlicensed • Mold-related Services activity to DBPR by calling the Unlicensed Activity Hotline at (866) 532-1440 or by emailing [email protected]. Services That Do Not Require a License During a disaster, DBPR may dispatch groups to organize door-to-door sweeps in conjunction with law enforcement, building departments, and other state agencies. • Cleanup Services • Removing Debris Homes can be a lifetime investment, and keeping a keen eye out for anyone trying • Trimming/Removing • Placing a Tarp on a Roof to make a quick buck is a prudent idea. Natural disasters can strike at any time, a Fallen Tree so make sure your hurricane preparations include post-storm cleanup. MYFLORIDALICENSE.COM SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 2 0 RECOVERY EFFORTS Disaster Resource Guide Keeping Safe After a Disaster: What to Do by bringing water to a rolling boil for cleaning up your home or other build- friends, or professionals for support, one minute. You should begin tim- ing. In general, return to buildings but during the pandemic, be sure that ing it when the water starts to bubble. during the daytime so you don’t have everyone wears a mask and practices Cool the water, then place it in clean to use lights, and be aware of pos- six-foot social distancing, if at all pos- containers for use or refrigerate. sible structural, electrical, or gas-leak sible. If needed, seek professional help. hazards. If you can’t boil water, add 1/8 tea- Stay cool spoon of newly purchased, unscented Fire Hazards When it’s hot, stay in air-conditioned liquid household bleach per gallon of Use battery-powered lanterns and buildings; take breaks in shaded areas water. Stir the water well and let it flashlights, if possible, instead of can- or in cool rooms; drink water and non- stand for 30 minutes before you use dles. If you must use candles, make alcoholic fluids often; wear lightweight, it. You can use water-purifying tab- sure you put them in safe holders, away light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; lets instead of boiling water or using from curtains, paper, wood, or any and do outdoor activities during cooler bleach. Laundry and showering water other flammable items. hours. does not need to be treated, unless Mold Prevention Treat wounds specifically listed. Rain or floodwaters that get into build- Clean out all open wounds and cuts Carbon Monoxide Safety ings can create conditions that enable with soap and clean water, and apply The steps a person takes in the During a power outage, running power mold to grow. The most important step an antibiotic ointment. Contact a doc- moments following a disaster are just generators or other devices can lead in prevention is to ensure that water is tor to find out whether more treatment as important, if not more so, as what to deadly carbon monoxide poison- no longer entering the house by mak- is needed (such as a tetanus shot). If a they do before and during the event. It ing. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, ing all necessary repairs. Following wound gets red, swells or drains, seek can mean the difference between life colorless, tasteless gas that kills more that, clean and dry all wet items within immediate medical attention. and death. Adhering to the following than 400 Americans each year. Never 48 to 72 hours, keep wet areas well Wash your hands guidance can go a long way toward use generators, grills, camp stoves, or ventilated, and discard materials that keeping you and your family safe. other gasoline, charcoal, or propane retain water and can’t be repaired. To Use soap and water to wash your hands. If water isn’t available, you can use Food Safety burning devices inside your home, remove mold, mix one cup of bleach basement, garage, or carport, or near in one gallon of water, wash the item alcohol-based products made for wash- Throw away food that may have come ing hands. During the pandemic, it in contact with flood or storm water. open windows, doors, or vents outside with the bleach mixture, scrub rough your home. surfaces with a stiff brush, rinse the is advisable to frequently wash your Throw away canned foods that are hands with soap and warm water bulging, opened, or damaged. If cans Electrical Safety item with clean water, then dry it or leave it to dry. and/or use sanitizer with 60% alcohol. have come in contact with floodwa- During hurricanes, power outages and ter or storm water, remove the labels, Cleanup Wear protective gear flooding often cause electrical hazards. for cleanup work wash the cans and dip them in a solu- Never touch a downed power line or Take out and throw away items that tion of one cup of bleach in five gallons anything in contact with a downed have soaked up water and that can- Wear hard hats, goggles, heavy work of water. Using a marker, re-label the power line. Contact the utility company not be cleaned and dried. Fix water gloves, and watertight boots with cans. Throw away food that has an before performing work near a downed leaks. Use fans and dehumidifiers, and steel toes and insoles (not just steel unusual odor, color, or texture. Throw power line. open doors and windows to remove shank). Wear earplugs or protective away perishable foods that have been moisture. headphones to reduce risk from equip- above 40 °F for two hours or more. If a power line falls on your vehicle ment noise. Thawed food that contains ice crystals while you are in it, remain in your car Check and clean heating, ventilating, Animals and Mosquitoes unless the vehicle catches fire or author- and air-conditioning systems before or is 40°F or below can be refrozen or Wild or stray animals may be disori- cooked. ities tell you it is safe to vacate it. Do use. To clean hard surfaces that do not touch a person who appears to have not soak up water and that may have ented and dangerous after a hurricane, While the power is out, avoid opening been electrocuted without checking to been in contact with floodwater, first flood, or other disaster, so be cautious. refrigerator and freezer doors. Add see whether the person is still in contact wash with soap and clean water. Next It is imperative to beware of snakes and block ice or dry ice to your refrigerator with the electrical source. disinfect with a mixture of one cup of other wild animals that may have been if the electricity is expected to be off brought into the area by floodwaters. If Utility Shut-off and Safety bleach in five gallons of water. Then longer than four hours. Wear heavy allow to air dry. Wash all clothes and a snake bites you, try to identify it so gloves when handling ice. In the event of a disaster, you may be linens in hot water. Steam clean car- that, if it is poisonous, you can be given instructed to shut off the utility service the correct anti-venom. Do not cut the Water Safety pets. Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, at your home. Before a disaster, contact and goggles when cleaning with bleach. wound or attempt to suck the venom Local authorities will tell you if tap your local utility companies to learn out; seek medical attention immedi- water is safe to drink or to use for Open windows and doors to get fresh how to safely cut off your natural gas, air. Never mix bleach and ammonia ately. Remove any animal carcasses cooking or bathing. If the water is not water, and electricity. Do not turn the from your property to avoid attracting safe to use, follow local instructions to – the fumes from the mixture could power back on until a qualified pro- kill you. other animals, such as rats. Wear insect use bottled water or to boil or disinfect fessional has inspected all equipment. repellant when outdoors, as flooding water for cooking, cleaning, brushing Personal Safety Building Safety can lead to more mosquitoes, which teeth, or bathing. Pace yourself and get support. Be alert may carry disease. Buildings may no longer be safe fol- Boil Water Advisory to physical and emotional exhaustion lowing a hurricane or flood. There are or strain. Set priorities for cleanup Source: cdc.gov Create a supply of water that is safe for a number of dangers that you need to cooking, drinking, and brushing teeth tasks, and pace the work. Try not to be aware of as you return and begin work alone. Ask your family members, SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide RECOVERY EFFORTS 2 1 FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers What are Disaster Recovery Centers? FEMA representatives at the Disaster Recovery Cen- A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is a readily acces- ter can answer questions and provide the status of an sible facility or mobile office where applicants may application. Representatives of the U.S. Small Busi- go for information about FEMA or other disaster ness Administration will also be there. Check your assistance programs or for questions related to their local news media for the location of a center near you, case. If there is a DRC open in the area, the location or log on to fema.gov/disaster-recovery-centers for will be listed on the FEMA website. more info. What services do they provide? N O T E : Applicants generally cannot register for assis- Some of the services that a DRC may provide include: tance at a DRC, but instead must first register by applying online at fema.gov or calling toll-free 1-800- • Guidance regarding disaster recovery; 621-FEMA (or 1-800-621-3362); for deaf or speech- • Clarification of any written impaired only, call TTY 1-800-462-7585. correspondence received; Information needed when contacting FEMA • Housing assistance and rental • Your Social Security number resource information; • Current and pre-disaster address • Answers to questions, resolution to problems, and referrals to agencies • A telephone number where that may provide further assistance; you can be contacted • Status of applications being • Insurance information ABOVE: Mobile Disaster Recovery Center processed by FEMA; vehicle is on display in front of the FEMA/ • Total household annual income State Joint Field Office in Tallahassee. • Small Business Administration (SBA) • A routing and account number from your program information if there is an bank (only necessary if you want to have SBA representative at the Disaster • A description of your losses that disaster assistance funds transferred were caused by the disaster Recovery Center location; and directly into your bank account) • Assistance by local, state, and federal agencies. Source: fema.gov ALWAYS PRACTICE GENERATOR SAFETY
Florida Department of Health tion, nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, lack of CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of Communications Office coordination, impaired vision, loss of consciousness, the latest safety standards for CO alarms (UL 2034, and in severe cases, death. IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01). In the last two years, Floridians experienced active hurricane seasons. The first major hurricane of As hurricane season approaches, the Florida Depart- Test your CO alarms frequently and replace dead the 2019 season was Dorian, which devastated the ment of Health (DOH) urges everyone to avoid CO batteries. Bahamas and is tied with a 1935 hurricane as the poisoning if an emergency event occurs and you R e m e m b e r choose to use a portable generator or similar device. that you cannot see or smell CO, and strongest Atlantic hurricane on record. Dorian skirted portable generators can produce high levels of CO Florida, but caused power outages, and the Panhandle very quickly. is still recovering from Hurricane Michael, which DOH recommends the following precautions to help occurred in 2018, when many people had no electricity prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: If you start to feel sick , dizzy, or weak while using for days while the state recovered. Some residents a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. DO NOT used portable generators, gas-powered appliances, D O N O T burn charcoal or gas grills inside a house, DELAY . garage, vehicle, tent, or fireplace. and charcoal or gas grills until power was restored. If you have a poisoning emergency, call your nearest Unfortunately, improper use of these devices led to NEVER use a generator indoors, including in homes, Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. instances of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. garages, basements, crawl spaces, and other enclosed If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call CO is a poisonous gas produced by burning fuels such or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation. 911 immediately. as gasoline, natural gas, propane, kerosene, charcoal, Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home. For further information about generator safety and and wood. CO from these sources can build up in emergency preparedness, please contact your local enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, such as your ALWAYS locate the unit outdoors on a dry surface, county health department or visit home or garage. The risk of illness or death increases floridahealth.gov away from doors, windows, vents, and air condition- or FloridaDisaster.org. with the level of CO in the air and the amount of time ing equipment that could allow CO to come indoors. exposed. CO is invisible and odorless, so you might Follow the instructions that come with your generator. During severe weather and other emergencies, you not even realize you are at risk until it is too late. can count on active alerts from DOH’s official social Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO media accounts. One of the fastest ways to receive Depending on the level of exposure, carbon monoxide alarms with battery back-up in your home, according official and accurate health-related information is to may cause fatigue, weakness, chest pains for those to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The monitor @HealthyFla on Twitter and on Facebook. with heart disease, shortness of breath upon exer- SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 2 2 ELDER RESOURCES Disaster Resource Guide
Governor Ron DeSantis...continued from page 1
As you build your plan and gather supplies, remem- agement agency and provides first responders with ber disaster supply kits will differ based on personal valuable information to prepare for disasters. needs. Please consider using special shopping hours for seniors or a home delivery service to arrange for While I pray that during these uncertain times no groceries, batteries, medication, and other supplies to hurricanes will impact Florida this year, if a storm be delivered to your home. Additionally, if you have does threaten, make sure you can receive important pets, your disaster supply kit should include their food, updates and alerts. Local television and radio, weather water, medications, and medical records. If you or a radios, and smartphone apps are a few ways you can member of your family is disabled or requires addi- be alerted of severe weather. If you prefer to use social tional assistance during an emergency, utilize Florida’s media, follow trusted sources like @FLSERT for the latest updates. Hurricane Season runs from June 1 Special Needs Registry at FloridaDisaster.org/snr. This important online tool allows residents who need through November 30, and I urge you to take the time assistance to register with their local emergency man- to prepare. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/GetAPlan to make or update your plan today.
Message From the Secretary...continued from page 1
tives to help engage and comfort older adults who may that are common in the middle-stages of the disease. live alone, are homebound, or who may otherwise feel Even in the late stages of Alzheimer’s, a person may disconnected by physical distancing. Two projects are be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from aimed at individual older adults, while another proj- childhood. Music provides a way to connect, even ect is designed to increase communication between after verbal communication has become difficult. DISASTER PREPAREDNESS residents in assisted living facilities or nursing homes Group Initiative and their loved ones. Project: VITAL (Virtual Inclusive Technology for FOR OLDER ADULTS Individual Initiatives All) utilizes virtual technology to relieve the difficult Many older adults may have difficulty keeping Many Floridians age 60 and older live alone. Research symptoms of social isolation for residents in assisted themselves safe and healthy during an emer- indicates extended loneliness and isolation in seniors living facilities and nursing homes. The Department, gency such as the COVID-19 pandemic or a may be detrimental to physical, mental, and emotional through a partnership with the Alzheimer’s Associa- natural disaster. Conditions such as impaired health. To combat loneliness, the Florida Depart- tion and other industry leaders, is distributing tablets mobility, multiple chronic health conditions, ment of Elder Affairs has begun delivering over 375 statewide to pilot program facilities so that residents or difficulty with memory may cause some therapeutic robotic pets to socially isolated seniors may be virtually brought together with their families. older adults to need extra help planning for and adults living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Relat- Project: VITAL offers personalized communication and dealing with situations such as hurricanes ed Dementia (ADRD). The interactive pets help by tools such as video call connections, online support and floods. Disasters and emergencies also can improving overall mood and quality of life. Fam- tools, and customized applications to allow residents disrupt the help that many older adults rely on ily caregivers may experience a reduction in stress, to continue connecting with their loved ones even as for independent living, such as assistance from and caregivers benefit when companion pets allow they maintain a physical distance. increased engagement with the older adult and their friends, family, and home-based medical care, Project VITAL was created under guidance provided especially when practicing social distancing. environment. The robotic pets offer an alternative to traditional pet therapy, and research shows they have by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention It is critical that older adults, their caregivers, similar positive effects. They are designed to respond (CDC) regarding infection control and prevention and their communities plan for their safety to motion, touch, and sound. Robotic cats and dogs of COVID-19 to nursing homes and facilities for the before an event occurs. To aid states, com- are usually given to people with ADRD, but data has health and safety of all residents. The project will be munities, and partner organizations in plan- shown that using pets to decrease social isolation for funded with resources received by the Department ning for older adults, the Centers for Disease older adults is highly successful. Applications are from federal coronavirus response efforts. During Control’s Healthy Aging Program and Public available through the Department’s Livable Florida the initial pilot phase, project leaders will work with Health Law Program have released a guide, website. 150 care communities and supply two tablets per com- Identifying Vulnerable Older Adults and Legal munity along with virtual training on how to use the Preparedness Options for Increasing Their Another initiative for older individuals is the Gift equipment, platform, and applications as well as proper Protection During All-Hazards Emergencies: of Music, with over 1,000 pre-loaded MP-3 players sanitization of each tablet from resident to resident. A Cross-Sector Guide for States and Commu- already delivered to socially isolated seniors and adults Elder Helpline nities. This guide presents practical strategies living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Demen- tia. The Gift of Music was made possible through a An item that has remained constant since the incep- and legal options for protecting older adults tion of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs is the during all-hazards emergencies. A web portal donation from the Florida Alzheimer’s Association. Each device is pre-loaded with various musical genres Elder Helpline. Florida seniors, their families, and for both professionals and the public has also caregivers can receive free, live help from an expert been launched that serves as a one-stop shop ranging from patriotic and country to Broadway tunes and gospel. Because areas of the brain linked to memo- about local programs and services through this valu- for resources, tools, and information related to able resource. Trained specialists take calls, address all-hazard preparedness for older adults. ries of music are often left undamaged by dementia, listening to music becomes an important part of treat- concerns, and help provide access and information to For more information, call 1-800-CDC-INFO ing and interacting with persons living with ADRD. local agencies, services, and programs. Assistance is or visit cdc.gov/aging/emergency. Music can be powerful. Studies have shown music available weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Elder Helpline may reduce agitation and improve behavioral issues number is 1-800-963-5337. SPECIAL EDITION 2020: Disaster Resource Guide ELDER RESOURCES 2 3
Information and referrals for elder ser- vices are available through the Elder Information & Referral: FLORIDA ELDER HELPLINE DIRECTORY Helpline within each county. For the Please call the telephone number below in your area for information and referrals. deaf or speech impaired, all Elder Helplines can be accessed through 1-800-96-ELDER Alachua...... 800-262-2243 Lee...... 866-413-5337 the Florida Relay by dialing 711 from Baker...... 888-242-4464 Leon...... 866-467-4624 anywhere in Florida. (1-800-963-5337) Bay...... 866-467-4624 Levy...... 800-262-2243 Bradford...... 800-262-2243 Liberty ...... 866-467-4624 Florida Area Agencies Brevard...... 407-514-0019 Madison...... 866-467-4624 Broward...... 954-745-9779 Manatee...... 800-336-2226 on Aging (Counties Served) Calhoun...... 866-467-4624 Marion...... 800-262-2243 Charlotte ...... 866-413-5337 Martin...... 866-684-5885 Northwest Florida Senior Connection Center, Inc. Citrus...... 800-262-2243 Miami-Dade . . . . .305-670-4357 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. 8928 Brittany Way Clay ...... 888-242-4464 Monroe ...... 305-670-4357 5090 Commerce Park Circle Tampa, FL 33619 Collier...... 866-413-5337 Nassau ...... 888-242-4464 Pensacola, FL 32505 813-740-3888 850-494-7101 (Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Columbia...... 800-262-2243 Okaloosa ...... 866-531-8011 (Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa Manatee and Polk Counties) DeSoto...... 866-413-5337 Okeechobee. . . . 866-684-5885 and Walton Counties) Dixie...... 800-262-2243 Orange...... 407-514-0019 Senior Resource Alliance Duval...... 888-242-4464 Osceola...... 407-514-0019 Advantage Aging Solutions 988 Woodcock Road, Suite 200 Escambia...... 866-531-8011 Palm Beach. . . . .866-684-5885 2414 Mahan Drive Orlando, FL 32803 Tallahassee, FL 32308 407-514-1800 Flagler...... 888-242-4464 Pasco...... 727-217-8111 850-488-0055 (Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Franklin...... 866-467-4624 Pinellas ...... 727-217-8111 (Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Seminole Counties) Gadsden...... 866-467-4624 Polk ...... 800-336-2226 Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Gilchrist...... 800-262-2243 Putnam...... 800-262-2243 Liberty, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla and Area Agency on Aging for Glades...... 866-413-5337 Santa Rosa...... 866-531-8011 Washington Counties) Southwest Florida 15201 N. Cleveland Avenue, Gulf ...... 866-467-4624 Sarasota...... 866-413-5337 Elder Options Suite 1100 Hamilton ...... 800-262-2243 Seminole...... 407-514-0019 100 SW 75th Street, #301 North Fort Myers, FL 33903 Hardee...... 800-336-2226 St. Johns...... 888-242-4464 Gainesville, FL 32607 239-652-6900 Hendry...... 866-413-5337 St. Lucie ...... 866-684-5885 352-378-6649 (Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hernando...... 800-262-2243 Sumter ...... 800-262-2243 (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota Counties) Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Highlands...... 800-336-2226 Suwannee...... 800-262-2243 Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Your Aging and Disability Hillsborough. . . . 800-336-2226 Taylor...... 866-467-4624 Sumter, Suwannee and Union Resource Center Holmes...... 866-467-4624 Union...... 800-262-2243 Counties) 4400 North Congress Avenue Indian River. . . . .866-684-5885 Volusia...... 888-242-4464 West Palm Beach, FL 33407 Jackson...... 866-467-4624 Wakulla...... 866-467-4624 ElderSource 561-684-5885 10688 Old St. Augustine Road (Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Jefferson...... 866-467-4624 Walton...... 866-531-8011 Jacksonville, FL 32257 Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties) Lafayette ...... 800-262-2243 Washington. . . . .866-467-4624 904-391-6600 Lake...... 800-262-2243 (Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Aging and Disability Resource Johns and Volusia Counties) Center of Broward County, Inc. 5300 Hiatus Road Elder Helpline Can Assist Non-English Speakers Area Agency on Aging Sunrise, FL 33351 of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. 954-745-9567 9549 Koger Boulevard North (Broward County) By calling the Elder Helpline, Gadsden Building, Suite 100 Florida’s elders can access St. Petersburg, FL 33702 Alliance for Aging, Inc. information and referral services 727-570-9696 760 NW 107th Avenue, Suite 214 through a translation service. (Pasco and Pinellas Counties) Miami, FL 33172 Telephone interpreters provide 305-670-6500 live, on-the-line assistance by (Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties) translating from English into as many as 148 different languages. If you need information about, or referral to, a service provider outside Florida, call the national Eldercare Locator Service at 1-800-677-1116. An information specialist will assist you Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. Eastern time. For people with Telecommunication Devices for the Are you worried that an elder relative or friend may be the victim of Deaf (TDDs), all Elder Helplines, as well as the Eldercare Locator Service, abuse? You can report known or suspected cases of abuse by calling can be accessed through Florida Relay Service at 1-800-955-8771. Florida’s Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). SPECIAL EDITION 2020: 2 4 DISASTER RESOURCE GUIDE Disaster Resource Guide
STATE & FEDERAL Disaster Contact Information Family, friends, and neighbors who wish to assist elder or special-needs storm survivors may find the following list of telephone numbers helpful: FEDERAL FEMA Registration 1-800-621-FEMA TTY: 1-800-462-7585 Fraud & Abuse Hotline: 1-800-323-8603 American Red Cross 1-800-733-2767 Español: 1-800-257-7575 Salvation Army 1-800-725-2769 Small Business Administration, disaster loans 1-800-659-2955 Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213 Atlantic Tropical TTY: 1-800-325-0778 Cyclone Names IRS 1-800-829-1040 2020 TDD: 1-800-829-4059 In the event that more than 21 named tropical cyclones occur U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs 1-800-827-1000 in the Atlantic basin in a season, additional storms will take TDD: 1-800-829-4833 names from the Greek alphabet. The World Meteorological Feeding America 1-800-771-2303 Organization established this naming convention. STATE OF FLORIDA Arthur Hanna Omar Florida Emergency Information Line 1-800-342-3557 Bertha Isaias Paulette Florida Attorney General Price Gouging Hotline 1-866-966-7226 Cristobal Josephine Rene Agriculture and Consumer Services, price gouging 1-800-435-7352 Florida Elder Abuse Hotline 1-800-96-ABUSE Dolly Kyle Sally Florida Volunteer and Donations Hotline 1-800-354-3571 Edouard Laura Teddy Elder Helpline, information and referral 1-800-96-ELDER Fay Marco Vicky Department of Financial Services Storm Hotline 1-800-22-STORM Gonzalo Nana Wilfred TDD: 1-800-640-0886 Florida Child Care, resource and referral 1-866-357-3239 Source: nhc.noaa.gov/aboutnames.shtml Florida Power & Light, outages update 1-800-468-8243 Department Economic Opportunity, 1-800-204-2418 Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale unemployment claims Winds 74-95 mph; CATEGORY 1 Minimal damage Winds 96-110 mph; CATEGORY 2 Moderate damage 1-800-96-ELDER Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (EST) Winds 111-129 mph; CATEGORY 3 Extensive damage All Elder Helplines can be accessed through the Winds 130-156 mph; Florida Relay Service for the hearing-impaired: CATEGORY 4 Extreme damage Winds greater than 157 mph; 1-800-955-8771 for TDD CATEGORY 5 Catastrophic damage 1-800-955-8770 for voice