20072007--20082008 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

GUIDE FOR ELDERS E. DOUGLAS BEACH • SECRETARY Florida Department of Elder Affairs Volume 16 • Number 4 • June 2007 • Special Issue 2006 Hurricane Season A MESSAGE AMESSAGE lthough anticipated to be From the From the “worse than 2005,” the A2006 hurricane season had SECRETARY GOVERNOR no hurricanes that made landfall By E. Douglas Beach, Ph.D. by Governor Charlie Crist within the United States. The lack of major, destructive s Florida embarks on another hurricane elflessness, teamwork and a sense of com- hurricanes in 2006 should not lull season, it is important to remember munity have helped Florida through one into complacency. Forecasts Athat most natural disasters do not give Snatural disasters time and time again. for the 2007 season are for nine advanced warning before disrupting our During this time of preparation, I encourage hurricanes, of which five will be everyday lives. Over the last few months, all Floridians to check-in with friends, major (category 3, 4, or 5). There is thousands of residents have been affected by neighbors and local emergency management a 74 percent chance that at least tornadoes, lightning storms and wildfires, centers to find out how you can best help one major hurricane will make none of which gave any warning. It is more before, during and in the immediate aftermath landfall along the entire U.S. coast, important than ever that citizens, especially of a storm. a 50 percent chance for the U.S. elders and their caregivers, take the vital The more prepared you are for an emer- east coast including the Florida steps to prepare for a natural disaster. gency, the safer you will be during a natural Peninsula, and a 49 percent The first step in protecting yourself and disaster and the quicker you will recover in its chance for the Gulf Coast from your family is to establish a plan. Once you aftermath. First, protect your home. Take steps the Florida Panhandle westward have decided what actions you will take in to make your home more resistant to damage to Brownsville, Texas. Floridians case of an emergency, it is important to share caused by a hurricane and check your insur- must continue to be prepared, that information with other family members. ance policy to make sure you have enough have well-thought-out emergency With a plan in place, you will be able to coverage. Second, protect your family. Create plans, and have an emergency organize a disaster preparedness kit that will an emergency plan, determine if you need to supply kit. sustain your family for three to five days. evacuate and where you will go, and stock up The reduced hurricane activity Many residents have specific medical needs, on supplies, including food, water, medicine, during 2006 resulted mainly from a which need to be considered when organizing flashlights and batteries. Finally, make sure rapidly developing El Niño event. your kit. I encourage you to use the disaster your friends and neighbors have a plan too. Continued on page 22 preparedness kit checklist, provided on page This guide has information that will help 12. It is also important to have up-to-date you and your loved ones get better prepared DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 2007-2008 information during and after a disaster. for natural disasters. Together, we can weather English Continued on page 19 the storm. CONTENTS

Disaster Supply Kit ...... 12 Elder Helpline ...... 23 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 2007-2008 Elders with Special Needs...... 21 Disaster Kit Guidelines ...... 13 Moving? Address Change? Receiving Multiple Copies? Disaster Safety Tips...... 11 Please let us know! We want to cut unnecessary postage costs. Family Emergency Information ...... 14 Allow 8 to 10 weeks for your address to be changed. Floods ...... 5 Send this label with your corrections in a stamped envelope to: Government and Voluntary Agencies ....24 Database Manager Hazardous Materials ...... 9 The Florida Department of Elder Affairs Heat Stress ...... 20 P.O. Box 6750, Tallahassee, FL 32314-6750 Home Repair Fraud ...... 16 Corrections: ______Hurricane Information ...... 2-4,22 Lightning, Thunderstorms and Hail ...... 7 ______Manufactured Home Safety...... 17 ______Pandemic Influenza ...... 10 ______Pets and Disasters...... 15 Safety Tips for Motorists...... 16 In order to update your mailing address, please include your old Tornadoes ...... 6 mailing address and your new mailing address in its entirety. Home Fires and Wildfires...... 8 Elder Update 2 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue Hazardous Weather / Hurricane Notification - E-mail Alert System Atlantic Basin Seasonal The Saffir-Simpson The American Red Cross has Hurricane Scale designed the Hazardous Weather/ Hurricane Forecast for 2007 Hurricane Notification System to By Philip J. Klotzbach and William M. Gray with special assistance Category 1 keep you informed when there is a from William Thorson / Colorado State University Winds 74-95 mph hazardous weather condition for your county. This system also pro- Tropical Cyclone Seasonal Forecast for 2007 Minimal damage: vides information on tropical storms (As of May 31, 2007) Unanchored mobile homes, Predictions: or hurricanes in the Atlantic and vegetation and signs. Gulf of Mexico throughout the (Average in Parentheses) Storm surge: 4-5 feet hurricane season. To be added to Named Storms (9.6)...... 17 the Hazardous Weather/ Hurricane Named Storm Days (49.1)...... 85 Category 2 Notification System, please visit the Hurricanes (5.9)...... 9 Winds 96-110 mph following Web site: Hurricane Days (24.5)...... 40 Moderate damage: http://www.tallytown.com/ Intense Hurricanes – Category 3, 4, 5 (2.3)...... 5 All mobile homes, roofs, small redcross/hwns.html Intense Hurricane Days (5.0)...... 11 crafts, flooding. Net Tropical Cyclone Activity (100.0%)...... 185% of average Storm surge: 6-8 feet

PROBABILITIES FOR AT LEAST ONE MAJOR (CATEGORY 3-4-5) HURRICANE Category 3 LANDFALL ON EACH OF THE FOLLOWING COASTAL AREAS: (USPS 403-710/ISSN 1060-4545) Winds 111-130 mph Elder Update is a bimonthly publication Entire U.S. coastline ...... 74% mailed in-state to Florida residents at (average for last century is 52%) Extensive damage: no cost to recipients. Out of state, Small buildings, low-lying Elder Update can be accessed at U.S. East Coast including Peninsula Florida...... 50% roads cut off. http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us. (average for last century is 31%) Storm surge: 9-12 feet Disaster Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle westward to Brownsville...... 49% Preparedness (average for last century is 30%) Category 4 GUIDE FOR ELDERS Above-average major hurricane landfall risk in the Caribbean. Winds 131-155 mph Source: http://hurricane.atmos.colostate.edu/forecasts Extreme damage: 2007 Roofs destroyed, trees down, Charlie Crist Governor roads cut off, mobile homes Jeff Kottkamp Lieutenant Governor ✃ NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS ONLY!! destroyed. Beach homes E. Douglas Beach, Ph.D. Secretary If you are not currently receiving Elder Update, flooded. Fran Brooks Chief Emergency you may do so by completing the form below and mailing it to Storm surge: 13-18 feet Operations & Disaster Preparedness Elder Update, P.O. Box 6750, Tallahassee, FL 32314-6750 Martha Billings Emergencey Please allow 8-10 weeks to receive first issue. Category 5 Coordinating Officer & Disaster Elder Update is distributed at no cost to elder Floridians. Winds greater than 155 mph Preparedness Guide Coordinator Catastrophic damage: Title (Mr./Mrs. /Dr., etc.) ______Liz Jameson Acting Communications Most buildings destroyed. Director and Copy Editor First Name ______M. Initial ______Vegetation destroyed. Major Kassie Elekes Editor and Database roads cut off. Homes flooded. Manager Last Name ______Storm surge: > 18 feet Peter Denes Layout & Design Business /Organization ______Jamarr Akins Assistant Editor www.floridadisaster.org Street Address or P.O. Box No. ______Saudade Hernandez-Benjamin Graphics Artist ______Florida Postmaster: Send address changes to: City ______State ______Zip Code ______Elder Update County ______Department of Elder Affairs P.O. Box 6750 Date ______Signature ______Tallahassee, Florida 32314-6750 Periodicals postage paid at Tallahassee, FL and P ostal regulations require that the person receiving the additional offices. subscription be the one requesting the subscription. Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 3

Hurricane Watch or • Monitor the radio (preferably on Warning? What to Do! ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A an NOAA weather radio) or television Here are some basic steps to take to for weather conditions, if possible. prepare for the storm: HURRICANE? PLAN NOW! • Stay indoors until the authorities • Learn about your community’s declare the storm is over. emergency plans, warning signals, • Do not go outside, even if the evacuation routes and locations of weather appears to have calmed— emergency shelters. the calm “eye” of the storm can pass • Identify potential home hazards quickly, leaving you outside when and know how to secure or protect strong winds resume. them before the hurricane strikes. Be • Stay away from all windows and prepared to turn off electrical power exterior doors; seek shelter in an inte- when there is standing water, a fallen rior room, bathroom or basement. power line, or before you evacuate. Bathtubs can provide some shelter if Turn off gas and water supplies you cover yourself with plywood or before you evacuate. Secure struc- other materials. turally unstable building materials. • Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or • Buy a fire extinguisher and make • Stay tuned to radio or television • Take only essential items with you. to a neighbor’s home if your home is sure your family knows where to find for weather updates. • If you have time, turn off the gas, damaged, or if you are instructed to it and how to use it. • Listen for disaster sirens and electricity, and water. do so by emergency personnel. warning signals. • Locate and secure your important • Disconnect appliances to reduce Source: www.cdc.gov papers, such as insurance policies, • Check your car for your emer- the likelihood of electrical shock wills, licenses, stocks, etc. gency kit. when power is restored. • Post emergency phone numbers • Secure any items outside which • Take a supply of your prescription at every phone. may damage property in a storm, such drugs with you. Hurricane Facts as bicycles, grills, propane tanks, etc. • Inform local authorities about any • Take your disaster supply kit. You • A hurricane is a type of tropical special needs, i.e., elderly or bedrid- • Cover windows and doors with don’t know how long you might be cyclone, the generic term for a den individuals, or anyone with a plywood or boards or install hurri- away. low-pressure system that general- disability. cane shutters on windows. • Evacuate as early as possible to avoid ly forms in the tropics. A typical • Put livestock in a safe area. Because congestion on roads and highways. cyclone is accompanied by thun- Prepare Emergency Disaster of food and sanitation requirements, • Follow the designated evacuation Supply Kits derstorms, and in the Northern some emergency shelters cannot routes — others may be blocked — Hemisphere, a counterclockwise Stock your home, car and work- accept animals (see page 15). and expect heavy traffic. circulation of winds near the place with supplies that may be need- • Place vehicles under cover, if at all • Notify your family and friends that earth’s surface. ed during the emergency period. (Use possible. you are evacuating, where you are • All Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico the center pullout section to obtain a • Fill cleaned and disinfected sinks going, and how you can be reached. coastal areas are subject to hurri- list of suggested emergency supplies.) and bathtubs with water as an extra • If told to evacuate and you have a canes or tropical storms. Parts of Preparing to Evacuate supply for washing. pet, the best choice for pets and own- the Southwest United States and • Store ice in coolers or in the tub of ers is to stay with pet-friendly friends the Pacific Coast experience heavy Expect the need to evacuate and your washing machine. (It is insulat- or relatives in a location outside the rains and floods each year from prepare for it. The National Weather ed and has a built in drain). evacuation area. If this is not possible, hurricanes spawned off Mexico. Service will issue a hurricane watch • Adjust the thermostat on refriger- the next choice should be to find a The Atlantic hurricane season when there is a threat to coastal areas ators and freezers to the coolest pos- pet-friendly motel or hotel outside lasts from June to November, with of hurricane conditions within 24-36 sible temperature. the evacuation area, and lastly to find the peak season from mid-August hours. a pet-friendly shelter. to late October. If Ordered to Evacuate When a hurricane watch is If Ordered NOT to Evacuate • Hurricanes can cause cata- issued, you should: Because of the destructive power of strophic damage to coastlines and a hurricane, you should never ignore The great majority of injuries dur- • Fill your automobile’s gas tank. several hundred miles inland. an evacuation order. Authorities will ing a hurricane are cuts caused by fly- Winds can exceed 155 miles per • If no vehicle is available, make be most likely to direct you to leave if ing glass or other debris. Other hour. Hurricanes and tropical arrangements with friends or family you are in a low-lying area, or within injuries include puncture wounds storms can also spawn tornadoes for transportation. the greatest potential path of the storm. resulting from exposed nails, metal, and microbursts, create storm • Fill your clean water containers. If a hurricane warning is issued for or glass, and bone fractures. surges along the coast, and cause • Review your emergency plans your area, or if you are directed by To get through the storm in the extensive damage from heavy and supplies, checking to see if any authorities to evacuate the area, do safest possible manner, do the rainfall. items are missing. the following: following: Elder Update 4 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue

ssistance for senior citizens identified as having special needs and those with special needs HURRICANE ASSISTANCE according to set criteria. A— in the form of counseling The next step for an applicant and help filling out paperwork — FOR SENIORS with special needs is to complete and is available for Florida residents sign an “Authorization to Release Con- affected by hurricanes that impact fidential Information,” form. FEMA the state. Disaster Recovery Centers, staffed Friends, neighbors, relatives and by experts, can help applicants community groups can help seniors complete the release form, which obtain that assistance from the satisfies privacy laws so that eligi- Federal Emergency Management bility for various kinds of disaster Agency (FEMA) and the Florida assistance may be determined. State Emergency Response Team Community relations workers and (SERT). housing inspectors also have the Some seniors may hesitate to forms, and actively seek out people complete an application form for a who need help completing them. Small Business Administration (SBA) Information provided during these low-interest loan, but must do so first two steps automatically triggers to keep the door open for other types the third and final stage of individual of assistance. If a loan is not appro- assistance to seniors with special priate, applicants can be referred to est in the welfare of those with special available 24 hours a day, seven days needs. “FEMA and the State of the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) needs and to offer help and trans- a week. Florida work closely with each iden- grant program — but only after being portation as needed. They can reas- The first step in registering for tified individual to smooth the declined by SBA. They cannot apply sure the victim that he or she won’t disaster assistance is to call the process of getting the help needed,” directly to the ONA program. be forced to move and that an assis- FEMA toll-free registration number said State Coordinating Officer Craig Therefore, those who do not com- tance grant does not have to be (800) 621-FEMA [(800) 621-3362], or Fugate. “That help can take the form plete an SBA loan application may be repaid. If crisis counseling appears TTY (800) 462-7585 for those with of loans, grants or help in contacting disqualifying themselves for other to be necessary, older adults can call hearing or speech impairment. The voluntary agencies such as the types of assistance. The applicant is Project Hope, the Florida Department applicant will receive a registration Salvation Army, American Red Cross not obligated to take an SBA loan if of Children and Families crisis number, which tracks them through and a multitude of other volunteer approved, but if the loan is offered counseling program, toll-free at the recovery process. That process and faith-based groups.” and refused, there is no referral to (866) 518-1825. Project Hope is is individually handled if they are Source: FEMA Recovery News grant programs. Older adults may also hesitate to apply for assistance because they are Terms to Know concerned they may be forced to Tropical Depression — An organized system of Storm Tide — A combination of storm surge and the move from their home into a nursing clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface cir- normal tide (i.e., a 15-foot storm surge combined home or travel trailer. Therefore, they culation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph with a two-foot normal high tide over the mean sea choose to stay in familiar surround- (33 knots) or less. Sustained winds are defined as level creates a 17-foot storm tide). ings even though their home is one-minute average wind measured at about 33 feet Hurricane/Tropical Storm Watch — Hurricane/ damaged. They will not be required (10 meters) above the surface. to leave their home against their will. tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified Another occasional misconception is Tropical Storm — An organized system of strong area, usually within 36 hours. Tune in to NOAA that they must repay assistance thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for awarded in the form of a grant, but maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph (34-63 information. FEMA and state grants do not require knots). Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning — Hurricane/ repayment. Hurricane — An intense tropical weather system of tropical storm conditions are expected in the speci- Following a disaster, seniors are strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface fied area, usually within 24 hours. often separated from their usual circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph Short Term Watches and Warnings — These community and support groups, (64 knots) or higher. warnings provide detailed information about spe- which further compounds communi- Storm Surge — A dome of water pushed onshore cific hurricane threats, such as flash floods and cation and transportation challenges. by hurricane and tropical storm winds. Storm surges tornadoes. Family, friends and neighbors are can reach 25 feet high and be 50-1,000 miles wide. Source: www.fema.gov encouraged to take a personal inter- Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 5 ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A FLOOD? Re-entering Your Flooded Home hen returning to a home that’s been flooded after natural disasters such as Whurricanes, tornadoes and floods, be aware that your house may be contaminated with mold or sewage, which can cause health risks for your family. When You First Re-enter Your Home • If you have standing water in your home and can turn off the main power from a dry location, do so, even if it delays cleaning. If you must enter standing water to access the main power switch, call an elec- trician to turn it off. Never turn power on or off Flood Insurance — Your Options Flood insurance means you’ll be reimbursed yourself or use an electric tool or appliance while The National Flood Insurance Program for all your covered losses. And unlike federal standing in water. makes federally backed flood insurance avail- aid, it never has to be repaid. • Have an electrician check the house’s electrical able to residents and business owners. Ninety- Unlike a standard homeowner’s policy, flood system before turning the power on again. five percent of all Florida communities partici- insurance covers losses to your property caused pate in the National Flood Insurance Program. by flooding. Some of the things a standard flood • If flood or storm water has entered your home, Even if you do not live near water, your home policy will cover include structural damage, dry it out as soon as possible. It may be contaminated still has a chance of being flooded. In fact, 25 furnace, water heater and air conditioner, flood with mold and sewage. to 30 percent of flood insurance claims are paid debris clean up, and floor surfaces such as car- in low-risk areas. peting and tile. You can also buy a flood insur- Follow these steps: Flood losses aren’t covered by your home- ance policy to cover the contents of your home, • If you have electricity — and an electrician has owners’ insurance policy. Floodwaters have the such as furniture, collectibles, clothing, jewelry determined that it’s safe to turn it on — use a “wet- power to damage not only your home and sense and artwork. As a homeowner, you can insure dry” shop vacuum or an electric-powered water of security, but also your financial future. your home up to $250,000 and its contents up to transfer pump, to remove standing water. Be sure $100,000. If you’re a renter, you can cover your to wear rubber boots. OPTION 1: belongings up to $100,000. As a non-residential Hope that you’ll receive federal • If you do not have electricity, or it is not safe property owner, you can insure your building to turn it on, you can use a portable generator to disaster relief if a flood hits. and its contents up to $500,000. Policies are power equipment to remove standing water. Never Many people wrongly believe that the U.S. available in three forms: Dwelling (most operate a gasoline engine inside a home. Such government will take care of all their financial homes), General Property (apartments and improper use can create dangerously high levels needs if they suffer damage due to flooding. The businesses), and Residential Condominium of carbon monoxide, which can cause carbon truth is that federal disaster assistance is only Building Association (condominiums). In gen- monoxide poisoning. available if the president formally declares a dis- eral, a policy does not take effect until 30 aster. Even if you do get disaster assistance, it is days after you purchase flood insurance. • If weather permits, open windows and doors of often a loan you have to repay, with interest, in With the Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) cover- the house to aid in the drying-out process. addition to your mortgage loan that you still age, people in low to moderate risk areas can • Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess owe on the damaged property. Most important- get lower premiums on the full range of flood moisture. Fans should be placed to blow the air out- ly, you must consider the fact that if your home insurance coverage available for residential and wards rather than inwards, so not to spread the mold. is flooded and disaster assistance isn’t offered, business structures and contents. • Have your home heating, ventilating and air- you’ll have to shoulder the massive damage It is important to know that if you have a conditioning (HVAC) system checked and cleaned costs alone. federally backed mortgage on a home located in by a maintenance or service professional. a high-risk area, federal law requires you to pur- OPTION 2: • Prevent water outdoors from reentering your chase flood insurance. Also, if you’ve received a home. Buy flood insurance and stay federal grant for previous flood losses, you must protected no matter what. have a flood policy to qualify for future aid. • Ensure that crawl spaces in basements have When disaster strikes, flood insurance policy- For more information about this program, proper drainage to limit water seepage. holder claims are paid even if a disaster is not call (888) CALL FLOOD, TDD (800) 427-5593, Source: www.cdc.gov federally declared. or visit www.floodsmart.gov. Elder Update 6 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue tornado is defined as a Tornadoes Measured violently rotating column of Are You Prepared for Aair extending from a thunder- by the Fujita Scale storm to the ground. In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported TORNADOES? The Fujita scale (F-scale) uses nationwide, resulting in 80 deaths observed damage to determine a and over 1,500 injuries. Tornadoes tornado’s wind speed. can occur anywhere, and at any time F0 – Gale Tornado of the year. In the Southeast region, peak tornado occurrence begins < 72 mph in March and lasts through May. Some damage to chimneys. Tornadoes are also closely associated Tree branches broken off. with hurricanes and often occur dur- Shallow rooted trees uprooted. ing hurricane season, June 1 through indicated by weather radar. Move to • Know who is most at risk: people F1 – Moderate Tornado November 30. The Southeast is also your pre-designated place of safety. in automobiles; the elderly, very 73-112 mph susceptible to waterspouts — weak young and the physically or mentally Peels surface off roofs. Mobile tornadoes that form over warm Stay informed of weather condi- tions by tuning into local radio and impaired; people in manufactured homes overturned. Moving water. Waterspouts sometimes move autos pushed off roads. inland, become tornadoes, and cause television stations or by listening to (mobile) homes; or people who may damage and injuries. NOAA Weather Radio for the latest not understand the warning due to a F2 – Significant Tornado Know what to listen for… tornado watches and warnings. language barrier. 113-157 mph • A Tornado Watch is issued when Remember, tornadoes occasionally If a warning is issued or if Considerable damage. Roofs tornadoes are possible in your area. develop in areas in which a severe threatening weather approaches— torn off frame houses. Large Remain alert for approaching storms. thunderstorm watch or warning is trees snapped or uprooted. in effect, so listen for that information • In a home or building, move to • A Tornado Warning is issued Light-object missiles generated. as well. Remain alert! a pre-designated shelter, such as a when a tornado has been sighted or basement. F3 – Severe Tornado Environmental Clues • If an underground shelter is not 158-206 mph NOAA • Dark, often greenish sky; available, move to an interior room or Severe damage. Roofs and some • Wall cloud; hallway on the lowest floor and get walls torn off well constructed Weather Radios • Large hail; under a sturdy piece of furniture. homes. Trains overturned. Most • Stay away from windows. trees in forests uprooted. Heavy NOAA WEATHER RADIO broad- • Loud roar, similar to a freight train; cars lifted off ground and thrown. casts National Weather Service • Some tornadoes appear as a visi- • Get out of automobiles. warnings, watches, forecasts and ble funnel extending only partially to • Do not try to outrun a tornado in F4 – Devastating Tornado other hazard information 24 hours the ground; and your car; instead, leave it immediate- 207-260 mph ly. a day for all types of hazards — • Some tornadoes are clearly visible Well-constructed houses leveled. both natural and man-made. while others are obscured by rain or • If caught outside or in a vehicle, Structures with weak foundations Weather radios equipped with a nearby low-hanging clouds. lie flat in a nearby ditch or depres- blown off some distance. special alarm tone feature can sion. Cars thrown and large missiles sound an alert and give you Tornado Safety • Manufactured (mobile) homes, generated. immediate information about a Before the Storm — even if tied down, offer little protec- life-threatening situation enabling tion from tornadoes and should be F5 – Incredible Tornado you to take action. The hearing • Develop a plan for you and your abandoned. > 261 mph family for home, work, school, and and visually impaired can also get Each year, many people are killed or Strong frame houses lifted off when outdoors. these warnings by connecting seriously injured by tornadoes despite foundations and disintegrated. weather radios with alarm tones to • Participate in frequent drills. advance warning. Some may not Automobile-sized missiles fly other kinds of attention-getting • Know the county in which you hear the warning while others may through the air in excess of 100 devices like strobe lights, pages, live, and stay tuned to weather bul- have received the warning but did mph. Trees debarked. bed-shakers, personal computers letins. Keep a highway map nearby not believe a tornado would actually www.floridadisaster.org and text printers. A NOAA radio, to monitor the storm’s movement impact them. After you have received with both electric power and bat- from weather bulletins. the warning or observed threatening tery back up, should be standard • Listen to radio and television for skies, you must make the decision to equipment in every home. NOAA information. seek shelter before the storm arrives. radios can be purchased at stores • If planning a trip outdoors, listen It could be the most important deci- that sell electronics. Additional to the latest forecasts and take neces- sion you will ever make. information is available at http:// sary action if threatening weather is Source: www.tallytown.com/ www.nes.noaa.gov/nwr. possible. redcross/ds Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 7 phone, loading a truck, playing soc- • Do not take a bath or shower dur- cer, fishing in a boat and mountain ing a storm. Water helps to conduct Are You climbing. Are You electricity, and walls don’t always protect from the high energy of a Prepared for Lightning Myths and Facts Prepared for lightning bolt. • Do not get close to electrical appli- MYTH: If it is not raining, then there Lightning? Thunderstorms? ances such as plug-in radios and TVs. is no danger from lightning. Use battery-operated radios. ightning occurs with all thun- FACT: Lightning often strikes outside How to Stay Safe During • Restrict all calls to cell phones. of heavy rain and may occur as far derstorms. It averages 93 deaths Severe Weather If Caught Outdoors and No and 300 injuries each year. It as 10 miles away from any rainfall. L Thunderstorms are our most com- Shelter Is Nearby — also causes several hundred million MYTH: The rubber soles of shoes or mon experience of severe weather. dollars in damage to property and • Find a low spot away from trees, rubber tires on a car will protect you They arrive suddenly, with little forests annually. You should be fences and poles — especially metal from being struck by lightning. warning except the darkening sky as aware of the dangers of lightning fences and poles. FACT: Rubber-soled shoes and rub- the thundercloud approaches. If you • Get to higher ground if flooding is and how to protect yourself and see tall, puffy cumulus clouds grow- your family from becoming victims. ber tires provide NO protection possible. Abandon cars and climb to from lightning. However, the steel ing and daylight rapidly dimming, higher ground. Note: Most flash Here are some helpful facts about observe these safety measures: nature’s fireworks: frame of a hard-topped vehicle pro- flood deaths occur in automobiles. • If you are in the woods, take shel- • What is lightning? Lightning vides increased protection if you are Before the Storm — ter under the shorter trees. occurs when the action of rising and not touching metal. Although you • Check weather forecasts before • Move to a sturdy building or car. descending air within a thunder- may be injured if lightning strikes leaving for extended periods out- DO NOT take shelter in small sheds, storm separates positive and negative your car, you are much safer inside doors. under isolated trees, or in convertible charges. Lightning results from the a vehicle than outside. • Watch for signs of approaching automobiles. buildup and discharge of electrical MYTH: People struck by lightning storms. • If you feel your hair start to stand energy between positively and nega- carry an electrical charge and • Postpone outdoor activities if on end or your skin tingle, or if you tively charged areas. should not be touched. thunderstorms are imminent. This is hear crackling sounds, lightning may • The average flash of lightning your best way to avoid being caught FACT: Lightning-strike victims carry be about to strike you. Squat low to could light a 100-watt light bulb for in a dangerous situation. no electrical charge and should be the ground on the balls of your feet. more than three months. attended to immediately. Contact If You Are Near a House or Place your hands on your knees with • Most lightning occurs within your local American Red Cross Other Building — your head between them. Make your- the cloud or between the cloud and self the smallest target possible and chapter for information on CPR and • Make sure that all children are ground. first aid classes. minimize your contact with the • The air near a lightning strike accounted for. ground. Do not lie flat. • Secure outdoor furniture. is heated to 50,000 degrees F — hotter MYTH: “Heat lightning” occurs after In the City — than the surface of the sun! The rapid very hot summer days and poses • Go indoors. If the storm is severe, Do not stand on an apartment- heating and cooling of air near the no threat. with frequent and close lightning bursts, head for a basement or a room house roof during a thunderstorm. lightning channel causes a shock FACT: What is referred to as “heat wave that results in thunder. in the middle of a house or other If You Are in Water — lightning” is actually lightning from building. • To estimate the distance in miles a thunderstorm too far away for • Get out of boats and stay away • Keep away from objects that between you and the lightning flash, thunder to be heard. However, from water. might conduct electricity (such as count the seconds between the light- the storm may be moving in your • If swimming, get out of the pool, radiators, pipes and metal door ning and the thunder and divide direction! lake or ocean at the first sign of light- by five. frames). ning or thunder. Find indoor shelter www.tallytown.com/redcross/ds • Most lightning deaths and injuries • Stay away from windows. or get into a car. occur when people are caught out- HAIL • Stay out of the water for at least 30 minutes without thunder. doors. Most casualties occur in the Hail can cause significant damage to your vehicle, break windows and summer months and during the damage roofs of homes and businesses. www.floridadisaster.org afternoon and early evening. Hail can cause significant bodily injuries such as broken bones and even • Your chances of being struck by blindness if wind blown. Terms to Know lightning are estimated to be one in 600,000. Softball (4.5 inches) sized hail was reported in Lake Wales, Florida, • Thunderstorm Watch — on March 30, 1996. Conditions are favorable for • In recent years, people have been severe weather. killed by lightning while boating, Haildrifts, up to four feet deep of dime to nickel sized hail, occurred in swimming, golfing, bike riding, low-lying areas near Zephyrhills, Florida, on January 29, 1997. • Thunderstorm Warning — standing under a tree, riding on Hailstones the size of softballs can fall at speeds faster than 100 mph. Severe weather is occurring or a lawnmower, talking on the tele- Source: www.floridadisaster.org has been detected by radar. Elder Update 8 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue • If you try to use a fire extinguisher on If Advised to Evacuate — a fire and the fire is not out in 30 seconds, • Wear protective clothing — drop the extinguisher and get out. sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen • Use the gauge or test button to check clothing, long pants, a long- proper pressure on your fire extinguisher. sleeved shirt, gloves and a Prepared If the unit is low on pressure, damaged, Are You Prepared handkerchief to protect your or corroded, replace it or have it profes- face. for Home Fires? sionally serviced. • Keep blankets, clothing, curtains, • Take your disaster supplies ire is one of the most common disas- furniture and anything that could get hot kit. ters and causes more deaths than any and catch fire away from portable heaters. • Lock your home. Fother type of disaster. But fire does • Plug heaters directly into the wall • Tell someone when you left not have to be deadly if you take precau- socket, not into extension cords, and Are You and where you are going. tions and have an escape plan. Please be unplug them when they are not in use. • Choose a route away from serious about the responsibility of plan- • Keep items away from the stove that Prepared for fire hazards. Watch for changes ning for and practicing what to do in case could catch fire. in the speed and direction of of a fire. Get together with household • Use safety plugs in electrical outlets, Wildfires? fire and smoke. members to discuss and finalize a person- especially if you have small children. Wildfires? alized fire plan. Practice your plan fre- • Avoid overloading electrical outlets and Time Permitting, quently. Here are some guidelines you can omeowners who live running cords under carpet and furniture. near Florida’s forests, Take Steps to Protect use in preparing your emergency plan. Your Home — Plan Your Escape Routes Hrural areas or remote Make Your Home Fire Safe sites enjoy the beauty of the • Close windows, vents, • Draw a floor plan of your home. The American Red Cross recommends environment but face the very doors, Venetian blinds and Determine at least two ways to escape heavy drapes. Remove light- the following advice for safety during fires: from every room of your home. real danger of a wildfire. • The safest thing to do in case of a fire is Wildfires often begin unno- weight curtains. • If you must use an escape ladder, be to get away from it safely and call the fire sure everyone knows how to use it. ticed, spreading quickly, ignit- • Shut off gas at the meter. department from another location away ing brush, trees and homes. Turn off pilot lights. from the fire. • Have a plan to escape if bars cover win- dows. Every year, wildfires burn • Open fireplace damper. • Smoke detectors save lives. Install smoke thousands of acres of grass- • Select a location outside your home Close fireplace screens. detectors outside each sleeping area and lands and forests in Florida. • Move flammable furniture on each additional level of your residence. where everyone would meet after escap- into the center of the home • Use the test button to check each smoke ing. When Wildfire away from windows and detector once a month. When necessary, • Practice your escape plan at least twice Threatens — a year. sliding-glass doors. replace batteries immediately. Replace If you are warned that a • Once you are out, stay out! • Turn on a light in each batteries at least once a year. wildfire is threatening your • Know how to call for emergency assis- room to increase the visibility • It is a good idea to place a fire extinguish- area, listen to your battery- tance. of your home in heavy smoke. er in your home near each place where fire operated radio for reports and • Seal attic and ground vents may start, such as the kitchen, garage, evacuation information. Follow Escape Safely with pre-cut plywood or com- workshop, barbecue area, etc. An extin- the instructions of local officials. guisher should only be used on a very • If you see smoke in your first escape mercial seals. • Back your car into the small fire that can be put out quickly. route, use your second way out. If you garage or park it in an open • Turn off propane tanks. • Get a fire extinguisher that is rated A-B- must exit through smoke, crawl low under space facing the direction of • Place combustible patio C, which is designed for fires that most the smoke to escape. escape. Shut doors and roll up furniture inside. often occur at home. For more information • If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If it is windows. • Connect the garden hose to on the type and size of fire extinguisher outside taps. you need for specific locations in your hot, use your second way out. • Leave the key in the ignition. home, contact your local fire department. • If smoke, heat or flames block your exit • Close garage windows and • Set up a portable gasoline- • Get training from your local fire depart- routes, stay in the room with the door doors, but leave them unlocked. powered pump. ment in how to use the fire extinguisher closed. Signal for help using a bright- • Disconnect automatic garage • Place lawn sprinklers on the that you get. Not all fire extinguishers colored cloth at the window. If there is a door openers. roof and near above-ground work in the same way, so it’s important telephone in the room, call the fire depart- • Confine pets to one room. fuel tanks. Wet the roof. that you get training and practice with the ment and tell them where you are. • Make plans to care for your • Wet or remove shrubs with- same type of fire extinguisher that you You can help protect yourself and your pets in case you must evacuate; in 15 feet of the home. may use. family from the dangers of fire by planning do not leave them behind. • Gather fire tools. • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions NOW for an emergency. Be smart — be safe. • Arrange temporary housing Source: for replacing or recharging fire extin- Source: www.tallytown.com/ at a friend or relative’s home www.tallytown.com/ guishers. redcross/ds outside the threatened area. redcross/ds Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 9 Are You Prepared for a Hazardous Materials Incident? What Are Extremely • Listen to a local radio or television Hazardous Materials? station. Emergency officials will tell There are thousands of chemicals you what to do. defined by the Occupational Safety • Follow all evacuation directions. and Health Administration as “chem- Remain calm. icals, which represent a physical or health hazard.” Approximately 360 If You Have Family in a of these substances are classified as Nursing Home or Hospital — “extremely hazardous.” Extremely • Check with these facilities in hazardous substances can be in advance to determine their evacua- liquid, gas or solid form. Exposure tion procedures. to these chemicals can cause serious • Local radio and television stations illness or death. will announce where patients are What to Do During a being moved. Hazardous Materials If Your Children or Grand- Accident — When this is not possible, ventilation • If an explosion is possible out- children Are in School — State and local governments have systems should be turned off. doors, close drapes, curtains and • If your children are in school established safety guidelines for your • Turn off all heating systems. shades over windows. Stay away during an accident, please do not try protection in the event of a hazardous • Turn off all air conditioners and from external windows to prevent to pick them up. They will be trans- materials accident. Emergency offi- switch inlets to the “closed” posi- potential injury from flying glass. ported to pickup areas outside any cials will provide timely, accurate tions. Seal any gaps around window • Minimize the use of elevators affected area, if necessary. Local radio information and instructions. type air-conditioners with tape and in buildings. These tend to “pump” and television stations will announce If You Are Told to Protect plastic sheeting, wax paper or outdoor air in and out of a building when and where parents can pick up Your Breathing — aluminum wrap. as they travel up and down. their children. School personnel will • Stay tuned to a local radio or supervise and care for the children Cover your nose and mouth with • Turn off all exhaust fans in television station for official infor- until parents pick them up. a large wet bath towel or cloth. For kitchens, bathrooms and other spaces. mation. a higher degree of protection, go If You Have Livestock — • Do not use fireplaces and close the into the bathroom, close the door and If You Are Told to Evacuate— • Place the animals in an enclosed turn on the shower in a strong spray dampers. • Lock all doors and windows. shelter, if possible. to “wash” the air. Seal any openings • Close as many internal doors • Turn off appliances — except for to the outside of the bathroom a best as possible in your home or other • Leave plenty of water and food the refrigerator — and faucets. as you can. Don’t worry about run- building. for several days. ning out of air to breathe. That is • Use tape and plastic food wrap- • Bring your pets with you. Be sure • Use stored feed if possible. highly unlikely in standard homes ping, wax paper or aluminum wrap to include your pet disaster supplies • Tune to a local radio or television and buildings. to cover and seal bathroom exhaust (see page 12). station for further instructions. • Keep your car vents and windows If You Are Told to Stay fan grills, range vents, dryer vents and other openings to the outside closed. Do not use the heater or air If You Grow Food Products — Indoors — to the extent possible (including conditioner. • Do not eat or sell products. • Quickly bring everyone inside, any obvious gaps around external • Drive carefully! • Protective actions — such as wash- including your pets. windows and doors). • Take your disaster supply kit with ing, discarding, etc. — are specific to • Remain indoors until further • Cover or refrigerate any uncov- you. You may not know how long the crops affected and their maturity notice. ered food. you will be away from your home. at the time of contamination. • Close all doors to the outside • Tune to a local radio or television and close and lock all windows — Reporting a Hazardous Materials Incident in Florida: station for additional instructions. windows sometimes seal better • First call 9-1-1 For more information, contact your when locked. local agricultural extension agent. • Set all ventilation systems to 100 • Florida State Warning Point, toll-free (800) 320-0519 percent re-circulation so that no out- Source: www.floridadisaster.org • National Response Center, toll-free (800) 424-8802 side air is drawn into the structure. Elder Update 10 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue Are You Prepared for Pandemic Influenza? here has been extensive report- disruptions could include everything your kit is included in the Disaster department of public health at www. ing on the flu virus that has from school and business closings Preparedness Guide on pages 12-13. pandemicflu.gov/plan/tab2.html. been circulating in birds. It is to interruption of basic services such For a pandemic flu, think about hav- T Vaccine important to note that this remains a as public transportation and health ing supplies for at least two weeks. serious issue for birds; there have care. An especially severe influenza Influenza vaccines are designed been no infected birds found in the pandemic could lead to high levels What Can You Do? to protect against specific flu viruses. U.S., and extensive testing continues of illness, death, social disruption and Stay Healthy! While there is currently no pandemic to be done to identify infected birds. economic loss. Take common-sense steps to limit flu in the world, the federal govern- The cases in humans have been con- the spread of germs. Make good ment is making vaccines for several fined to those persons who have had Pandemic Influenza: History hygiene a habit. existing bird flu viruses that may extensive contact with sick or infect- In the last century there were three • Wash hands frequently with soap provide some protection should one ed birds. Further, government offi- influenza pandemics. All of them were and water. While washing, sing of these viruses change and cause a flu pandemic. A specific pandemic cials, the medical community and called pandemics because of their “Happy Birthday” twice to make influenza vaccine cannot be pro- other key entities are making plans worldwide spread and because they sure you have thoroughly washed. duced until a pandemic flu virus to deal with having enough supplies were caused by a new influenza virus. • Cover your mouth and nose with strain emerges and is identified. Once to assist our communities should a The 1918 pandemic was especially a tissue when you cough or sneeze. a pandemic influenza virus has been pandemic occur. severe. The 1957 pandemic was mod- • Put used tissues in a wastebasket. identified, it will likely take four-to- Then why all of the concern over erately severe. The 1968 pandemic • Cough or sneeze into your upper six months to develop, test, and begin this virus? Flu viruses have the abili- (Hong Kong flu) was the least severe, sleeve if you don’t have a tissue. producing a vaccine. Efforts are being ty to mutate very easily and readily, causing about the same number of • Clean your hands after coughing made to increase vaccine-manufac- and the concern is that the virus deaths as the United States experi- or sneezing. Use soap and water or turing capacity in the United States would transform into a structure that ences every year with seasonal flu. an alcohol-based hand cleaner. so that supplies of vaccines would makes it easily transmissible from Importance and Benefits • Stay at home if you are sick. be more readily available. In addi- person to person. Should that occur, of Being Prepared tion, research is underway to develop humans would have no immunity to Will the Seasonal Flu Shot It is difficult to predict when the new ways to produce vaccines more this virus, leading to a pandemic that Protect Me Against next influenza pandemic will occur quickly. could infect millions at one time, or how severe it will be. The effects of Pandemic Influenza? leading to shortages in staffing med- Treatment a pandemic can be lessened if prepa- No, it won’t protect you against ical facilities, the transportation of rations are made ahead of time. pandemic influenza. But flu shots The U.S. Food and Drug Admin- goods and services — virtually every The United States has been work- can help you to stay healthy. istration, to treat and sometimes aspect of our lives. ing closely with other countries and • Get a flu shot to help protect prevent seasonal flu, approves a number of antiviral drugs. Some Pandemic Influenza: the World Health Organization yourself from seasonal flu. • Get a pneumonia shot to prevent of these antivirals may be effective What I Need to Know (WHO) to strengthen systems to detect outbreaks of influenza that secondary infection if you are over in treating pandemic flu. These An influenza (flu) pandemic is a might cause a pandemic. State, tribal age 65 or have a chronic illness such drugs may help prevent infection widespread outbreak of disease that and local governments are develop- as diabetes or asthma. For specific in people at risk and shorten the occurs when a new flu virus appears ing, improving, and testing their guidelines, talk to your health care duration of symptoms in those infect- ed with influenza. However, it is that people have not been exposed to plans for an influenza pandemic. provider or call the Centers for unlikely that antivirals alone would before. Pandemics are different from Businesses, schools, universities, and Disease Control and Prevention effectively contain the spread of seasonal outbreaks of influenza. other community organizations are (CDC) Hotline at (800) 232-4636. pandemic influenza. The federal gov- Viruses that people have already preparing plans as well. The U.S. • Make sure that your family’s ernment is stockpiling antivirals that been exposed to cause seasonal flu Department of Health and Human immunizations are up to date. would most likely be used in the outbreaks. Flu shots are available to Services (HHS) and other federal Get Informed early stages of an influenza pandem- help prevent widespread illness, and agencies are providing funding, ic. There are efforts to find new impacts on society are less severe. advice, and other support to states. Knowing the facts is the best drugs and to increase the supply of Pandemic flu spreads easily from The federal government will provide preparation. Identify sources you can antivirals. Antivirals are available person to person and can cause up-to-date information and guidance count on for reliable information. If by prescription only and not over serious illness because people do to the public if an influenza pandem- a pandemic occurs, having accurate the counter. not have immunity to the new virus. ic unfolds. and reliable information will be A pandemic may come and go in critical. Reliable, accurate, and timely Be Prepared Will Bird Flu Cause the waves, each of which can last for information is available at www.pan- Next Influenza Pandemic? months at a time. Everyday life As with any disaster, you are better demicflu.gov. could be disrupted due to people able to manage if you have prepared Look for information on your local Avian influenza (bird flu) is a dis- in communities across the country an emergency disaster supply kit. and state government Web sites. ease of wild and farm birds caused by becoming ill at the same time. These Information about what should be in Links are available to each state Continued on page 20 Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 11 ARE YOU PREPARED? use it. You can use water-purifying lights, and be aware of possible struc- Personal Safety Disaster Safety Tips tablets instead of boiling water or tural, electrical or gas-leak hazards. Pace yourself and get support. f you are facing or have been using bleach. Laundry and shower- Be alert to physical and emotional ing water does not need to be treated, Fire Hazards exhaustion or strain. Set priorities for impacted by an emergency or dis- Use battery-powered lanterns and aster, keep the following safety unless specifically listed. cleanup tasks, and pace the work. Try I flashlights, if possible, instead of can- not to work alone. Don’t get exhaust- tips in mind: Carbon Monoxide Safety dles. If you must use candles, make ed. Ask your family members, Food Safety During a power outage, running sure that you put them in safe hold- friends or professionals for support. Identify and throw away food that power generators or other devices ers, away from curtains, paper, wood If needed, seek professional help. may not be safe to eat. Throw away can lead to deadly carbon monoxide or any other flammable items. Stay cool. When it’s hot, stay in air- food that may have come in contact poisoning. Carbon monoxide is an Mold Prevention conditioned buildings; take breaks in with flood or storm water. Throw odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that shaded areas or in cool rooms; drink away canned foods that are bulging, kills more than 500 Americans each Rain or floodwaters that get into water and nonalcoholic fluids often; opened or damaged. Throw away year. Never use generators, grills, buildings can create conditions that wear lightweight, light-colored, food that has an unusual odor, color camp stoves or other gasoline, char- enable mold to grow; however, you loose-fitting clothing; and do outdoor or texture. Throw away perishable coal, or propane burning devices can take steps to prevent mold activities during cooler hours. foods (including meat, poultry, fish, inside your home, basement, garage, growth. The most important step is to Treat wounds. Clean out all open eggs and leftovers) that have been carport, or near open windows, doors ensure that water is no longer enter- wounds and cuts with soap and clean above 40 degrees F for two hours or or vents outside your home. ing the house by making all neces- water. Apply an antibiotic ointment. sary repairs. Following that, clean more. Thawed food that contains ice Electrical Safety Contact a doctor to find out whether crystals or is 40 degrees F or below can and dry all wet items within 48 to 72 more treatment is needed (such as a be refrozen or cooked. If cans have come During hurricanes, power outages hours, keep wet areas well ventilated, and flooding often cause electrical tetanus shot). If a wound gets red, in contact with floodwater or storm and discard materials that retain swells or drains, seek immediate water, remove the labels, wash the hazards. Never touch a downed water and can’t be repaired. If you power line or anything in contact medical attention. cans, and dip them in a solution of one see or smell mold, clean it with a Wash your hands. with a downed power line. Contact Use soap and cup of bleach in five gallons of water. solution of one cup of household liq- water to wash your hands. If water isn’t the utility company before perform- Using a marker, re-label the cans. uid bleach per one gallon of water. available, you can use alcohol-based ing work near a downed power line. Store food safely. While the power products made for washing hands. If a power line falls on your vehicle Clean Up is out, avoid opening refrigerator and Wear protective gear for cleanup while you are in it, remain in your car freezer doors. Add block ice or dry Take out and throw away items work. Wear hard hats, goggles, heavy unless the vehicle catches fire or ice to your refrigerator if the electrici- that have soaked up water and that work gloves and watertight boots authorities tell you it is safe to vacate ty is expected to be off longer than cannot be cleaned and dried. Fix with steel toes and insoles (not just it. Do not touch a person who four hours. Wear heavy gloves when water leaks. Use fans and dehumidi- steel shank). Wear earplugs or protec- appears to have been electrocuted handling ice. fiers, and open doors and windows tive headphones to reduce risk from without checking to see whether or to remove moisture. To remove mold, equipment noise. Water Safety not the person is still in contact with mix one cup of bleach in one gallon of Listen to and follow public the electrical source. water, wash the item with the bleach Animals and Mosquitoes announcements. Local authorities will mixture, scrub rough surfaces with a Wild or stray animals may be dis- tell you if tap water is safe to drink or Utility Shut-off and Safety oriented and dangerous following a In the event of a disaster, you may stiff brush, rinse the item with clean to use for cooking or bathing. If the water, then dry it or leave it to dry. hurricane, flood or other disaster, so water is not safe to use, follow local be instructed to shut off the utility be cautious. It is imperative to beware service at your home. Before a disas- Check and clean heating, ventilating, instructions to use bottled water or to and air-conditioning systems before of snakes and other wild animals that boil or disinfect water for cooking, ter, contact your local utility compa- may have been brought into the area nies to learn how to safely cut off use. To clean hard surfaces — walls, cleaning, brushing teeth, or bathing. floors and counter surfaces — that do by floodwaters. If a snake bites you, your natural gas, water and electrici- try to identify the snake so that, if it is Boil Water Advisory ty. Do not turn the power back on not soak up water and that may have Create a supply of water that is safe been in contact with floodwater, first poisonous, you can be given the cor- until a qualified professional has rect anti-venom. Do not cut the for cooking, drinking and tooth brush- inspected all equipment. wash with soap and clean water. ing by bringing water to a rolling boil Next disinfect with a mixture of one wound or attempt to suck the venom for one minute. You should begin Building Safety cup of bleach in five gallons of water. out; seek medical attention immedi- timing it when the water starts to Buildings may no longer be safe Then allow to air dry. Wash all clothes ately. Secure all food sources and bubble. Cool the water, then place in following a hurricane or flood. There and linens in hot water. Steam clean remove any animal carcasses from clean containers for use or refrigerate. are a number of dangers that you carpets. Wear rubber boots, rubber your property to avoid attracting If you can’t boil water, add 1/8 tea- need to be aware of as you return gloves and goggles when cleaning other animals, such as rats. Wear spoon of newly purchased, unscent- to — and begin cleaning up — your with bleach. Open windows and insect repellant when outdoors, as ed liquid household bleach per gal- home or other building. In general, doors to get fresh air. Never mix flooding can lead to more mosqui- lon of water. Stir the water well, and return to buildings during the day- bleach and ammonia. The fumes toes, which may carry disease. let it stand for 30 minutes before you time so that you don’t have to use from the mixture could kill you. Source: www.cdc.gov Elder Update 12 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue ARE YOU PREPARED? Disaster Supplies Kit Checklist Prepare now for an emergency. When a disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. The following list is to help you determine what to include in your disaster supplies kit to meet your family’s needs during an emergency situation or evacuation. Store items in an easy-to-carry container such as a waterproof suitcase, large plastic storage box, backpack or duffle bag. First Aid Supplies Equipment and Tools Documents and Keys Supplies Home Vehicle Work Tools Kitchen items Item Stored First aid kit and manual ❏ ❏ ❏ Portable, battery-powered ❏ Household liquid bleach ❏ Personal identification ❏ Germicidal hand wipes or water- ❏ ❏ ❏ or hand cranked radio or to treat drinking water or Cash and coins ❏ less, alcohol-based hand sanitizer television and extra batteries water purification tablets in Credit cards ❏ Antiseptic wipes ❏ ❏ ❏ or NOAA Weather Radio a plastic bag Extra set of house keys and car keys ❏ ❏ ❏ Large, medical grade, non-latex ❏ ❏ ❏ Booster cables for car and Paper cups, plates and Videotaped documentation of all valuables in home ❏ gloves full tank of gas plastic utensils Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas ❏ ❏ ❏ Cold pack ❏ ❏ ❏ Flashlight and extra All-purpose knife and water if authorities advise you to do so. batteries Scissors (small, personal) ❏ ❏ ❏ Photocopies of the following Signal flare ❏ Manual can opener ❏ Tweezers ❏ ❏ ❏ (stored in waterproof, plastic bag): Matches in a waterproof ❏ Small cooking stove and ❏ ❏ Assorted sizes of safety pins ❏ ❏ ❏ Birth certificate ❏ ❏ ❏ container (or waterproof a can of cooking fuel Marriage certificate ❏ Cotton balls matches) (if food must be cooked) ❏ ❏ ❏ Driver’s license ❏ Thermometer Shut-off wrench, pliers, ❏ Aluminum foil and ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Social Security cards ❏ Tube of petroleum jelly or other shovel and other tools plastic wrap Passports ❏ lubricant Duct tape and scissors ❏ Re-sealable plastic bags ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Wills (including living wills and advance directives) ❏ Sunscreen Plastic sheeting ❏ Sugar, salt, pepper ❏ Deeds ❏ Whistle ❏ Non-Prescription and Prescription Medicine Inventory of household goods ❏ Work gloves ❏ Kit Supplies and Medical Support Equipment Insurance papers (property, health and life) ❏ Paper, pens and pencils ❏ Supplies Home Vehicle Work Immunization records and copies of prescriptions ❏ Needles and thread ❏ Miscellaneous Items Antibacterial ointment ❏ ❏ ❏ Name, phone number, address of your doctors, home ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Battery-operated travel ❏ Cards, games ❏ Aspirin and non-aspirin pain ❏ health agency, hospital, pharmacists, caregiver (Also, keep reliever alarm clock Books copies posted by all home telephones.) Small canister, ABC-type ❏ Toys for kids ❏ Anti-diarrhea medication ❏ ❏ ❏ A list of models and serial numbers as well as suppliers ❏ fire extinguisher Antacid (for upset stomach) ❏ ❏ ❏ for medical equipment such as pacemakers, feeding Laxative ❏ ❏ ❏ pumps, home IV units, suctions machines, wheelchairs, Food and Water for At Least 3-5 Days Braille or lower vision equipment, etc. Vitamins ❏ ❏ ❏ Supplies Home Vehicle Work Written instructions regarding your medical care ❏ Prescription drugs (two-week ❏ ❏ ❏ Water (1 gallon per person, per day) ❏ ❏ ❏ If applicable, a copy of the pre-admission letter from ❏ supply) and copies of prescriptions Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, ❏ ❏ ❏ your doctor stating that you are to be taken to a specific Dentures and cleaning solution ❏ ❏ ❏ vegetables and soups hospital or nursing home. Extra eyeglasses/contact lenses ❏ ❏ ❏ Canned or boxed juices or milk ❏ ❏ ❏ Bank and credit card account and routing numbers ❏ and cleaning solution ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ High-energy foods such as peanut Stocks and bonds Hearing aid and extra batteries ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ butter, nuts, jelly, low-sodium crackers, granola bars, fruit Emergency contact list (family and friends) with phone Medical support equipment bars, dried fruit and trail mix numbers and addresses (wheelchairs - extra battery if motorized, walkers, cane, Special foods for persons on special ❏ ❏ ❏ Map of the area and phone numbers of places you ❏ dressings, oxygen and tubes, feeding equipment, etc.). diets could go Label all equipment with your name. Snacks ❏ ❏ ❏ Driving instructions and contact information of where ❏ Sanitation and Hygiene Supplies Instant coffee ❏ ❏ ❏ you are going ❏ ❏ ❏ Item Item Cereals Pet Supplies ❏ ❏ Powdered milk ❏ ❏ ❏ Towelettes, body wipes, Heavy-duty plastic Extra food (store the food in sturdy containers) ❏ soap, hand sanitizer garbage bags and ties for Cleaning supplies ❏ personal sanitation use Clothes and Bedding Supplies Pet carrier (labeled) ❏ and toilet paper ❏ ❏ ❏ Complete change of clothes Medications and pet first aid supplies ❏ Washcloth and towel Medium-sized plastic ❏ Extra pair of shoes (sturdy shoes or boots) Pet’s medical/vaccine records and vet contact ❏ bucket with tight lid ❏ ❏ ❏ Rain gear information Tooth paste, Disinfectant and ❏ toothbrushes household chlorine bleach Hat Leashes, collars, harnesses and muzzles ❏ ❏ Shampoo, comb and ❏ Feminine supplies ❏ Jacket Two sets of pet ID tags (one on the pet and an extra) ❏ brush Extra socks ❏ Pet dishes, litter pan, litter and plastic bags ❏ Deodorants ❏ Toilet paper ❏ Extra underwear ❏ Toys and blankets ❏ Razor, shaving cream ❏ Diapers, disposable ❏ Sunglasses ❏ Proof of ownership (photos of owners with pets, ❏ incontinence supplies Blankets/sleeping bags and pillows ❏ registration papers, “chip” registration, etc.) Lip balm, insect repellent ❏ Mirror ❏ Folding cot or lawn chair ❏ “Lost Animal” posters (previously made) ❏ Source: http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/ Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 13

ou may need to survive on your a date on the outside of the container own after a disaster. This means ARE YOU PREPARED? so that you know when you filled it. Yhaving your own food, water, Store in a cool, dark place. Replace and other supplies in sufficient quan- Basic Disaster Kit Guidelines the water every six months if not tity to last for at least three days. using commercially bottled water. Local officials and relief workers will Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit be on the scene after a disaster, but FOOD they cannot reach everyone immedi- HOME WORK CAR The following are things to consid- ately. You could get help in hours, or er when putting together your food Your disaster supplies This kit should be in In case you are stranded, it might take days. supplies: kit should contain essential one container, and ready keep a kit of emergency • Avoid foods that will make you Basic services such as electricity, food, water and supplies to “grab and go” in case supplies in your car. gas, water, sewage treatment, and for at least three days. you are evacuated from thirsty. Choose salt-free crackers, telephones may be cut off for days, a your workplace. This kit should contain whole grain cereals, and canned Keep this kit in a desig- maps, food, water, manual week, or longer. Or, you may have to foods with high liquid content. nated place and have it Make sure you have can opener, first aid kit • Stock canned foods, dry mixes, evacuate at a moment’s notice and ready in case you have to food and water in the and manual, flares, booster and other staples that do not require take essentials with you. You probably leave your home quickly. kit. Also, be sure to have cables, flashlight and extra will not have the opportunity to shop Make sure all family mem- comfortable walking batteries, battery-powered refrigeration, cooking, water or spe- or search for the supplies you need. bers know where the kit shoes at your workplace radio and extra batteries, cial preparation. You may already have is kept and can lift and in case an evacuation fire extinguisher (5 lb.,A-B-C many of these on hand. (Note: Be A disaster supplies kit is a collec- carry the kit. requires walking long type), blanket, rain gear, sure to include a manual can opener.) tion of basic items that members of distances. and seasonal supplies. • Include special dietary needs. a household may need in the event Additionally, you may want to consider having of a disaster. supplies for sheltering for Maintaining Your Disaster KIT LOCATIONS up to two weeks. Supplies Kit Since you do not know where you Just as important as putting your will be when an emergency occurs, supplies together is maintaining them Observe the expiration or “use by” If Storing Water in Plastic Soda prepare supplies for home, work so they are safe to use when needed. date. and vehicles. Bottles, Follow These Steps — Here are some tips to keep your sup- plies ready and in good condition: WATER If You Are Preparing Your Thoroughly clean the bottles with Own Containers of Water — dishwashing soap and water, and • Keep canned foods in a dry place How Much Water Do I Need? rinse completely so there is no resid- where the temperature is cool. It is recommended you purchase You should store at least one gal- ual soap. Sanitize the bottles by • Store boxed food in tightly closed food-grade water storage containers lon of water per person per day. A adding a solution of 1 teaspoon of plastic or metal containers to protect from surplus or camping supplies normally active person needs at least non-scented liquid household chlo- from pests and to extend its shelf life. stores to use for water storage. Before one-half gallon of water daily just rine bleach to a quart of water. Swish • Throw out any canned good that filling with water, thoroughly clean for drinking. the sanitizing solution in the bottle becomes swollen, dented or corroded. the containers with dishwashing Additionally, in determining ade- so that it touches all surfaces. After • Use foods before they go bad, and soap and water, and rinse completely quate quantities, take the following sanitizing the bottle, thoroughly replace them with fresh supplies. so there is no residual soap. Follow into account: rinse out the sanitizing solution with • Place new items at the back of the directions below on filling the con- • Individual needs vary, depending clean water. storage area and older ones in the tainer with water. on age, physical condition, activity, front. If you choose to use your own Filling Water Containers — diet and climate. • Change stored food and water storage containers, choose two-liter • Children, nursing mothers and Fill the bottle to the top with regu- supplies every six months. Be sure to plastic soft drink bottles — not plastic ill people need more water. lar tap water. If the tap water has been write the date you store it on all con- jugs or cardboard containers that • Very hot temperatures can double commercially treated from a water tainers. have had milk or fruit juice in them. utility with chlorine, you do not need the amount of water needed. • Re-think your needs every year Milk protein and fruit sugars cannot to add anything else to the water • A medical emergency might and update your kit as your family’s be adequately removed from these to keep it clean. If the water you are require additional water. needs change. containers and provide an environ- using comes from a well or water • Keep items in airtight plastic bags How Should I Store Water? ment for bacterial growth when source that is not treated with chlo- and put your entire disaster supplies To prepare the safest and most reli- water is stored in them. Cardboard rine, add two drops of non-scented kit in one or two easy-to-carry con- able emergency supply of water, it is containers also leak easily and are not liquid household chlorine bleach to tainers, such as an unused trashcan, recommended you purchase com- designed for long-term storage of the water. Tightly close the container camping backpack, or duffel bag. mercially bottled water. Keep bottled liquids. Also, do not use glass con- using the original cap. Be careful not water in its original container and do tainers, because they can break and to contaminate the cap by touching Source: http://www.fema.gov/ not open it until you need to use it. are heavy. the inside of it with your finger. Place areyouready/ Elder Update 14 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue ARE YOU PREPARED? Family Emergency Information

Are You Prepared to Keep in Escape Routes: Determine primary and alternate Family Communications: Your family may not routes to take to get out of your house. be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you Touch With Your Family? Where to Meet: Establish a place to meet family will contact one another. Think about how you will Since your family cannot be together 24 hours a members in the event of an emergency and you are communicate in different situations. Create a contact day, you need to consider how you would find separated. Include in your plans a location that is card for each family member. Have family members each other in a disaster. Have a plan ready before near your home (e.g., a neighbor’s house or yard) keep these cards handy in a wallet, purse, or back- the emergency occurs, outlining for yourself, your and outside the immediate area (e.g., the parking pack. Pick a friend or relative who lives out-of-state friends, and your family where you will stay in lot of a specific grocery store). for household members to notify that they are safe. case a disaster strikes.

Family Contacts: Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, Where to go in an emergency: Record where your family spends the so plan how to contact one another and who can be notified that you are safe most time and where you will meet each other if an emergency occurs and and communicate your location to other family members. you can’t get home.

Out-of-State 1st Phone 2nd Phone Address: E-mail: Location: Address: Phone Where You Will Meet Contact Name: Number: Number: Number: in an Emergency: Home:

Work:

Work:

Other place you frequent:

Other place you frequent: In-State 1st Phone 2nd Phone Address: E-mail: Contact Name: Number: Number: Other place you frequent:

Other place you frequent:

Important Name: Address: Phone Policy Information: Number: Number: Doctor:

Family Information: Record the following information for each family Doctor: member and keep it current: Doctor: Name: Date of Social Security Important Medical Birth: Number: Information: Pharmacist:

Medical Insurance: Homeowners/ Rental Insurance: Veterinarian/Kennel: (for pets) Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 15 Are You Prepared to Care for Your Pets? here is one important rule to • Ask local animal shelters if they arranged location. This person should remember regarding pets and provide emergency shelter or foster be comfortable with your pets, know Tdisasters: If you are told to care for pets in a disaster. Animal where your animals are likely to be, evacuate, please do so — and take shelters may be overburdened caring know where your pet disaster sup- your pet(s) with you. It is not safe for the animals they already have, as plies kit is kept, and have a key to your to leave pets behind. Animals left well as those displaced by a disaster, home. If you use a pet sitting service, behind can be injured, lost or killed, so this should be your last resort. they may be available to help, but dis- and pets left inside your home • Before an emergency occurs, con- cuss the possibility well in advance. can escape through storm-damaged tact your county’s emergency man- Planning and preparation will areas, such as broken windows. agement office to find out if there are enable you to evacuate with your Animals turned loose to fend for pet friendly shelters in your area and pets quickly and safely. But bear in themselves are likely to become to learn the requirements for bringing mind that animals react differently victims of exposure, starvation, pred- your pet to the shelter. under stress. Outside your home and ators, contaminated food or water, in the car, keep dogs securely leashed. or accidents. Leaving dogs tied or For more information, visit Transport cats in carriers. Don’t leave chained outside in a disaster is a the following sites: animals unattended anywhere they death sentence for them. • www.floridapets.net can run off. The most trustworthy • www.hsus.org/hsus_field/hsus_ pets may panic, hide, try to escape, Plan for Your Pet’s Evacuation disaster_center/index.html Pet Evacuation Kits or even bite or scratch. And, when • Contact hotels and motels outside • www.petswelcome.com In addition to your human disaster you return home, give your pets time your immediate area to check policies • www.collierem.org kit, prepare a disaster kit for your pet. to settle back into their routines. on accepting pets and restrictions on You will find suggestions for items to • www.pets-allowed-hotels.com Consult your veterinarian if any number, size, and species. Ask if “no include in the pet disaster kit in this behavior problems persist. • www.ohs.state.ga.us pet” policies could be waived in an issue of the Disaster Preparedness emergency. Keep a list of “pet friend- Pet-Friendly Shelters Guide (page 12). Service Animals Service animals for the blind, hear- ly” places, including phone numbers, Many county emergency manage- Know What to Do As a ing impaired, handicapped or others with other disaster information and ment officials are considering the need Disaster Approaches with special needs will be allowed to supplies. If you have notice of an to provide shelters that will accom- stay in emergency shelters with their impending disaster, call ahead for modate pets and owners. Some coun- • Often, warnings are issued hours, owners. Check with your county’s reservations. ties already have pet-friendly shelters. even days, in advance. At the first hint emergency management office for • Ask friends, relatives, or others In some cases, the pets are kept sepa- of disaster, act to protect your pet. more information. outside the affected area whether rately from people, but the pet shelter • Call ahead to confirm emergency they could shelter your animals. If is often near the people shelter. (At the shelter arrangements for you and After you have more than one pet, they your pets. time of this article, there is proposed If after a disaster you have to leave may be more comfortable if kept Florida legislation to require the • Check to be sure your pet disaster town, take your pets with you. Pets together, but be prepared to house shelter component of the state com- supplies are ready to take at a are unlikely to survive on their own. them separately. prehensive emergency management moment’s notice. In the first few days after the disas- • Prepare a list of boarding facilities plan to contain strategies to ensure • Bring all pets into the house so ter, leash your pets when they go out- and veterinarians who could shelter the availability of shelter space that that you won’t have to search for side; always maintain close contact. animals in an emergency; include 24- is designated and equipped to accept them if you have to leave in a hurry. Familiar scents and landmarks may hour phone numbers. evacuees with pets.) • Make sure all dogs and cats are be altered and your pet may become wearing collars and securely fastened, confused and lost. Wild animals and up-to-date identification. Attach the downed power lines may be hazards phone number and address of your that have been introduced to the area For more information on temporary shelter, if you know it, or due to the disaster. of a friend or relative outside the The behavior of your pets may pet-friendly lodging, disaster area. You can buy temporary change after an emergency. Normally please visit on the Web at tags or put adhesive tape on the back quiet and friendly pets may become www.petfriendlyhotelsandtravel.com of your pet’s ID tag, adding infor- aggressive or defensive. Watch ani- or call (800) 582-1889. mation with an indelible pen. mals closely. Leash dogs and place them in a fenced yard with access You can also visit on the Web at You may not be home when the evacuation order comes. Find out if a to shelter and water. www.petswelcome.com. trusted neighbor would be willing to Sources: www.fema.gov and take your pets and meet you at a pre- www.tallytown.com/redcross/ds Elder Update 16 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue

fter almost every disaster, never leave anyone in a parked car search and rescue teams find SAFETY TIPS during periods of high summer heat. Avictims who might have survived if they had known whether for Motorists in Emergencies DEVELOPING EMERGENCY to stay with or leave their cars. The Listen to radio or television for may still be rising, and the car could Stay Informed following safety tips are for drivers the latest National Weather Service be swept away at any moment. In times of developing emergencies in various types of emergencies. In bulletins on severe weather for the such as toxic material spill, nuclear any situation, there is one important area in which you will drive. TORNADO plant accident or terrorist attack, keep rule: Don’t panic. Get Out of the Car a radio or television on and await FLOOD instructions. If evacuation is recom- A car is the least safe place to be HURRICANE Get Out of the Car mended, move quickly but calmly, during a tornado. When a warning is Evacuate Early Never attempt to drive through following local emergency manage- issued, do not try to leave the area by Flooding can begin well before a water on a road. Water can be deeper ment’s instructions about appropriate car. If you are in a car, leave it and hurricane nears land. Plan to evacuate than it appears, and can rise very routes, shelters and other directions. find shelter in a building. If a tornado early, and keep a full tank of gas dur- quickly. Most cars will float danger- approaches and there are no safe ing the hurricane season. Learn the ously for at least a short while. A car EMERGENCY SUPPLIES structures nearby, lie flat in a ditch or best evacuation route before a storm can be buoyed by floodwaters and Keep in the Car forms, and make arrangements with other ground depression with your then swept downstream during a Cars should be equipped with friends or relatives inland to stay with arms over your head. flood. Floodwaters also can erode supplies that could be useful in any them until the storm has passed. roadways, and a missing section of emergency. Check the list of items to Never attempt to drive during a hurri- road — even a missing bridge — will SUMMER HEAT be included in your car’s disaster kit cane or before the all-clear notification not be visible with water running Stay Out of a Parked Car in this issue of the Disaster Prepared- is given after the storm. Flash flooding over the area. Wade through flood- During hot weather, heat build-up ness Guide (page 12). can occur after a hurricane has passed. waters only if the water is not flowing in a closed or nearly closed vehicle can It is also very important to remem- Avoid driving on coastal and low- rapidly, and only in water no higher occur quickly and intensely. Children ber: Never carry gasoline inside a lying roads. Storm surge and hurri- than the knees. If a car stalls in flood- and pets can die from heat stroke in vehicle, in any container. cane-caused flooding is erratic and water, get out quickly and move a matter of minutes when left in a may occur with little or no warning. to higher ground. The floodwaters closed car. It is imperative that you Source: www.fema.gov/hazards

let you know before you go. Should you need to a custom profile online for trips you frequently Do You Know About 511? evacuate, call 511 before you leave home so you make for business or pleasure. Then, when you call ial 511 from your cell phone or landline before can plan ahead. 511 will give you information about 511, the system will recognize your phone number Dhitting the road. The service provides real-time road conditions, congestion, contraflow, suspended using simple caller ID technology. You’ll have the travel information on all interstate highways in tolls and weather-related road closings. opportunity to hear about traffic reports on an Florida, as well as Florida’s Turnpike. 511 lets you entire trip with just one voice prompt. know about accidents, road construction, severe 511 Connects You to Regional Travel weather conditions or other things that can slow Information 511 Tips you down. The traffic information is free; however, Florida’s Statewide 511 service gives you access • Speak as clearly as possible and minimize any standard cell phone minutes or roaming charges to detailed travel information in Central Florida, background noise, including radios and open may apply. You can access specific information for Southeast Florida, Southwest Florida, Northeast windows. highways by asking for them by name from the Florida and Tampa Bay. You can connect to those • Say, “other parts of the state” to transfer to speech-activated menu. You can also request infor- regional 511 services by saying “other parts of the Florida’s regional 511 services. mation about roadways in a specific county or city. state.” You’ll get real-time reports on regional road- • Say, “help” for instructions. Statewide Florida 511 Features ways as well as airports and public transportation. • Say, “next,” “previous,” “stop” or “repeat” to navigate more quickly through the phone • Travel information on Florida interstate high- www.FL511.com: Log on for Real-Time menus. ways and Florida’s Turnpike Travel Updates and Custom Trips • Say, “main menu” at any time to start over. • Information on accidents, lane closures and • Say, “feedback” to report congestion not already construction You can also point your Web browser to • Severe weather, evacuation and child abduction www.FL511.com to receive statewide and regional reported on 511. alerts travel updates. • If you already know your selection, interrupt 511 • 24-hour-a-day availability The Web site provides much of the same infor- at any time. • Toll-free calls with speech-activated menus mation as the phone call, plus additional features, including traffic cameras. Check out the site before 511 systems are available in other states. For • Cell phone or landline use information about the status of 511 nationwide, go • Access to regional 511 systems in Florida leaving home or while traveling throughout the state. It’s fast, easy and just a few clicks away. to: http://www.deploy511.org/deploystatus.htm. Severe Weather Evacuation Information A special feature of the Web site, My Florida 511, Source: Florida Department of When storms threaten Florida, a call to 511 will allows you to customize your 511experience. Create Transportation Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 17 Manufactured Homes & Hurricanes – The Facts anufactured homes have ing to the home’s damage or destruc- • Make sure your emergency con- been the choice of thou- tion. Flying debris from additions also tact information is updated with the sands of seniors in Florida damaged some homes. Homeowners community office. M should have the following items • If you are a winter Floridian, since the first ones were built right after World War II. In the 60 years checked, preferably by a licensed ensure that the community office since then, they have had their con- aluminum contracting company: knows when you are in Florida and struction and windstorm safety • The posts must be securely when you are not. requirements strengthened many attached to the ground. • The community should know the times. • If a home has a roof-over, or a one- • The posts must be securely addresses of your other residences, as In Florida, manufactured home piece membrane roof cover, check for attached to the roof. well as their phone numbers, to construction was first regulated by adequate fasteners. • The roof must be securely attached inform you about the condition of your home, and to assist in taking a state legislation in 1968. In 1976, Home Additions to the frame, with no loose panels. Congress mandated a preemptive • The addition must be properly and census of residents. national construction and safety stan- One of the most common causes of securely attached to the home. • When you leave Florida, all items home failures during the hurricanes in and around your home should be dard to be regulated by the Housing Community Living and Urban Development (HUD). was from the homes additions, car- secured against wind. Many manufactured-home owners This standard is referred to as the ports, garages, screen rooms and sheds. For more information on manufactured choose the friendly small town fun- HUD Code. A Florida Department of Highway home living in Florida, or home perform- filled atmosphere available in an After Hurricane Andrew in 1994, Safety and Motor Vehicles report ance during the 2004 hurricanes, go to affordable manufactured home com- HUD implemented sweeping noted that when these additions were www.fmha.org or www.builtstonger.com. changes that dramatically increased damaged or destroyed, they often dam- munity. When living in a community, Florida Manufactured wind safety. In 1999, state legislation aged the home itself, which allowed homeowners can prepare for disas- Source: Home Association made major improvements to the wind and rain to enter the home, lead- ters by following some simple steps: foundation and anchoring regula- tions, resulting in the strongest tie It is usually stated as a percentage of the policy limits. down and foundation system in the INSURANCE REVIEW Flood Insurance — Typically, homeowners’ policies country. he Department of Financial Services urges all exclude flood damage. Homeowners without flood Floridians to review their insurance policies and insurance may qualify through the National Flood Home Maintenance and Tconduct an annual check-up by asking themselves Insurance Program (NFIP). Preparation the following questions: Actual Cash Value — The depreciated value of prop- Things that should be checked at • Can you access all of your insurance policies right erty damaged in a storm. least annually, preferably by knowl- now? It is recommended that you keep your insurance Replacement Cost — The amount needed to replace edgeable professionals, include: policies, along with other important documents in a or repair your damaged property with materials of sim- ilar kind and quality, without deducting for depreciation. • The tie down and anchoring sys- waterproof container with one copy kept in another location, preferably a safety deposit box. Ordinance or Law Coverage — If a local building tem. This should include, especially ordinance or law increases the cost of repairing or in older homes (1) possible rusting of • Do you know what your homeowner’s insurance policy covers? Many policyholders have a tendency to replacing an insured dwelling, the insurance company anchors and their connections, (2) will not pay the additional amount, unless this coverage tightening of the tie down straps, and sign the policy every year without adjusting the cover- age to the current property value. The majority of is added to the policy. A homeowner’s agent MUST offer (3) possible upgrading of the system this coverage and some companies automatically by addition of anchors and straps Floridians do not have the money set aside to cover their out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a hurricane, include this in their coverage. wherever a home’s construction will Additional Living Expenses — Homeowner’s pack- allow. including their deductible. • Do you know what your homeowner’s association ages provide additional living expense coverage that will • Checking for possible wood rot or condo covers? Before a disaster occurs, check with pay some extra expenses if damage to your home requires and termite damage, especially the your homeowner’s association or with your condo to you to live somewhere else while it is being repaired. wall-to-floor connections, wall-to- make sure that you understand which repair expenses Policies may designate a limit of coverage for additional roof connections, perimeter joists and are covered by your association or condo and which will living expenses, but does not obligate the insurance trusses. In the most recent hurricanes, be your responsibility. company to pay this amount in advance or in full. The investigators found that in older Here is a brief review of key items every homeowner policyholder must keep receipts for expenses and sub- homes, this was a major reason for should check for in his or her insurance policy: mit them to the insurance company for reimbursement. failure at points of connection of Hurricane Deductible — This deductible is based on For more information, please call the Florida Department main members, which allowed the the value of the insured property, not the estimate of winds to penetrate the home’s air- of Financial Services’ toll-free helpline at (800) 342-2762, or damage, and applies to only hurricane claims (those visit on the Web at www.fldfs.com. tight envelope and led to failure of resulting from a hurricane declared by the National the entire structure. Sometimes, sim- Weather Service). This is the amount the homeowner Source: Jane Lyon, Regional Manager of the Consumer ply caulking and painting the home is responsible for out of the total damages to the home. Services, Florida Department of Financial Services. will help seal it. Elder Update 18 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue I can’t get through to FEMA; how Actual loan amounts and terms are can I apply for disaster help? Frequently Asked Questions by Seniors set by the SBA and are based on It is best to place your call to (800) When Applying for Individual Assistance each applicant’s financial condition. 621-FEMA [(800) 621-3362] either I am 70 years old, and my house early in the morning or late at night. has no mortgage. Why would I want Persons with hearing or speech impairment can call TTY (800) 462- a 30-year loan? 7585. In addition to having pen and It all depends upon an individual’s paper available to record important financial resources and personal pref- phone contacts when you register, erences. If the property has a poten- you will also need: tial value for you and your heirs, • Your Social Security number. you’ll probably want to repair your • Current and pre-disaster address valuable investment. If you do not and phone number. have the cash to repair your home to • Insurance information and type. pre-disaster condition, a low-interest, • Financial information from your long-term loan from the federal gov- bank (routing and account number) ernment may be your best solution. if you choose to have the funds The SBA does not discriminate on transferred directly to your financial the basis of age or income. institution. Can I have a ramp built for You can also apply for assistance a FEMA-provided travel trailer/ online at www.fema.gov. Many com- mobile home? munities have computer resources at benefit from such a deduction. If you other lodging. You then may receive their public libraries for those without think you may qualify, either call in the mail an application for a loan Requirements for ramps for travel Internet access. the Internal Revenue Service toll-free from the U.S. Small Business Admini- trailers or mobile homes are part of at (800) 829-1040 or for the hearing or stration (SBA). Be sure to fill it out the initial assessment. If you did not That looks complicated; can I get speech impaired (800) 829-4059, or go and return it in order to remain under receive a ramp but require one, call the someone to help do this? online at www.irs.gov. consideration for further assistance. FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-FEMA Yes. If you need help completing [(800) 621-3362]. A helpline represen- your application, and you have no I am having trouble understand- How does the SBA loan work? tative will ensure that someone will one to assist you, call FEMA’s ing all I need to do to get essentials If, upon review of your FEMA get back in contact with you. Helpline, the same number as the such as food and water. Can some- application, the SBA determines you application line. You will be directed one help me do what is necessary? are financially qualified and able to I have trees down all over my yard to a person who can tell you where Absolutely. Your local American repay a long-term, low-interest loan, and can’t handle strenuous work. Is the nearest disaster recovery center is Red Cross chapter and volunteer you will be offered a loan. If it is there any help for debris removal? located. Someone there will be able to agencies are among the first to decided you are unable to qualify for Many homeowners’ insurance help you. Be sure to have the neces- respond to such basic human needs a loan, you will be considered for policies cover debris removal. FEMA sary information with you. You may during a disaster. Your connection to another FEMA grant assistance pro- and the State of Florida may provide also apply for assistance at FEMA’s them will bring a quick response and gram. Loans must be repaid; grants funds for cleaning up debris on pri- Web site, www.fema.gov. some suggestions that may help you do not have to be. You cannot apply vate property or in gated communi- take additional action to speed your directly for a grant. If you are offered ties, if the debris prevents access or If I accept a grant, will this impact recovery. Remember, though, that an a loan, you are not required to accept is damaging the home. Your local my Social Security or Medicare pro- application to the American Red Cross it. If you qualify and reject the loan, officials can also tell you of a pickup grams? will not connect you with FEMA for however, you won’t be referred to the schedule for debris placed on public Acceptance of disaster assistance help. You need to call the FEMA reg- additional grant program. property in your area. The U.S. Small grants should not affect those pro- istration hotline in order to be consid- Business Administration may also grams. ered for a wide variety of assistance. Since we lived on a limited fixed provide a low-interest loan to assist income, can we afford to borrow Does disaster help have to be with debris removal. Some disaster repaid? I heard that I had to apply for money? volunteer groups also help prepare a loan or I wouldn’t get any help. State and federal grants do not The disaster loan program man- and remove debris for homeowners Is that true? have to be repaid. Loans from the U.S. aged by the U.S. Small Business who are physically unable to do. Small Business Administration must When you have damage to your Administration is tailored to help Contact your county emergency be repaid. home and apply for help with FEMA, people at all levels of income. Interest manager, or go online to learn their a FEMA inspector will verify the rates can be as low as 3.187 percent current debris removal information. Is disaster financial assistance damage. Based on his verification, for homeowners. If you obtained a reportable as income? you may then receive funds to repair $10,000 loan for 30 years at that inter- Source: FEMA and the United No. But you may be able to claim your house to make it safe, sanitary est rate, your monthly payment States Small Business casualty losses and receive an early and functional, or funds for renting would amount to about $44.00. Administration Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 19 The FEMA Application Process hat should an applicant programs may be based on the Disaster expect when calling the specific needs identified during the Department of Homeland interview. WSecurity’s Federal Emergency A copy of the application and a Recovery Management Agency (FEMA) toll- copy of “Help After a Disaster: free number to apply for disaster Applicant’s Guide to the Individuals assistance? & Households Program,” will be sent Centers Applicants will reach an automat- to the caller. They will also be sent ed recording and will be asked to letters explaining any assistance What is a disaster recovery center select English or Spanish. Once the being provided or why they were not selection is made, the actual applica- eligible for certain types of assistance. and what services do they provide? The applicant’s guide is also avail- tion process begins. Callers will be disaster recovery center (DRC) is a readily accessible facility or able on the Internet at http:// advised to have paper and pen avail- mobile office where applicants may go for information about www.fema.gov/assistance/process/ able for taking notes. They will then FEMA or other disaster assistance programs, or for questions be asked: guide.shtm. This is a very useful pub- A related to their case. If there is a DRC open in the area, the location will lication that explains how FEMA’s • What is the ZIP code where the be listed on the FEMA Web site. damage occurred? disaster assistance program works; describes additional kinds of help NOTE: Applicants generally cannot register for assistance at a DRC, they must Then, because the same call-in available from other federal, state first register by calling (800) 621-FEMA [(800) 621-3362], for hearing/speech number is used to follow-up on a and voluntary agencies; and gives impaired only, call TTY (800) 462-7585, or apply online at www.FEMA.gov. caller’s application status, they will many important tips on how to make Some of the services that a DRC may provide:• be given options. Option 1 will take the most of all these programs. FEMA Guidance regarding disaster recovery; callers to the registration process. urges all applicants to look in the They will be advised to have the applicant’s guide first for answers to • Clarification of any written correspondence received; following information available: any questions you may have about • Housing assistance and rental resource information; • The date the damage occurred; disaster assistance. • Answers to questions, resolution to problems and referrals to • The caller’s Social Security number; Based on applicants’ information, agencies that may provide further assistance; • The address of the damaged they may also be mailed a loan appli- • Status of applications being processed by FEMA; property; cation from the U.S. Small Business • Small Business Administration (SBA) program information if there Administration (SBA). Information • An address and telephone number is a SBA representative at the disaster recovery center site; and provided on the loan application where the applicant can be reached • Assistance by local, state and federal agencies. helps determine what type of addi- to receive FEMA information and/ tional assistance is available, includ- FEMA representatives at the disaster recovery center can answer ques- or to set up an appointment for an tions and provide the status of an application. Representatives of the U.S. ing grants. Often, applicants will inspection. (An inspector will call Small Business Administration will also be there. Check your local news be forwarded directly to an SBA within seven to 10 days to set up media for the location of a center near you, or log on to www.fema.gov, employee for more information an appointment.); click on “Recovery Information,” and then click on your state. about the low-interest loan program. • Estimated family income; The FEMA Web site http:// Source: www.fema.gov • Insurance information; and www.fema.gov provides a wealth of • County where the damage took information. Applicants may register Continued from page 1 place; online at the FEMA Web site by click- A Message From the Secretary Applicants will be given a seven- ing on “Apply for Assistance” located Florida’s State Emergency Response Once you have prepared your fam- digit registration number. This num- in the top bar on the homepage. Team suggests that every home have ily’s emergency plan and disaster pre- ber and the Social Security number FEMA’s toll-free teleregistration a portable NOAA (National Oceanic paredness kit, it is important that you become the means of identification number is (800) 621-FEMA [(800) 621- and Atmospheric Administration) check on others who might not be when calling in to report changes in 3362]. The TTY number is (800) 462- weather radio that is both electric and able to prepare. There are over four the caller’s information or to request 7585 for speech- or hearing-impaired. battery-operated. A NOAA weather million older adults living in Florida status on his or her case. The helpline is open from 6:00 a.m. radio broadcasts National Weather and approximately two million have Once the operator has received all to midnight, EDT. Because of the Service warnings, watches, forecasts a disability. It is critical that as good the above information, depending on large number of individuals with and other hazard information 24 neighbors, we assist those who might income, damages and insurance, the questions, FEMA recommends calling hours a day. If the electricity goes out not be able to prepare for a disaster. caller is given information about after 6:00 p.m., or on weekends when during a disaster, this radio can still In times of emergency, we must come FEMA programs and other possible fewer people are trying to call. function offering vital information together as Floridians to ensure that assistance available. Some of these Source: www.fema.gov and instruction. no person is left without help. Elder Update 20 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue Heat Stress and Older Adults ecause older adults are more like- To prevent heat stroke and • Making sure older adults have cool water from a garden hose, ly to have chronic medical con- heat exhaustion, you should — access to an electric fan whenever sponge the person with cool water or, Bditions that upset normal body • Drink cool, nonalcoholic, non-caf- possible. if the humidity is low, wrap the per- son in a cool, wet sheet and fan them responses to heat, and are more likely feinated beverages. If your doctor If you see any signs of severe heat vigorously. to take prescription medicines that generally limits the amount of fluid stress, you may be dealing with a • Monitor body temperature and impair the body’s ability to regulate you drink or has you on water pills, life-threatening emergency. Have its temperature, older adults are not ask him how much you should drink continue cooling efforts until the body someone call for immediate temperature drops to 101 degrees F. able to adjust as well as young people when the weather is hot. Also, avoid medical assistance while you • If emergency medical personnel to sudden changes in temperature. extremely cold liquids because they begin cooling the affected person. are delayed, call the hospital emer- Heat stroke is the most serious can cause cramps. Do the following: heat-related illness anyone can face. • Rest. gency room for further instructions. • Get the person to a shady area. It occurs when the body becomes • Take a cool shower, bath or • Do not give the person alcohol • Cool the person rapidly, using unable to control its temperature, and sponge bath. to drink. whatever methods you can. For is punctuated with the following • If possible, seek an air-conditioned • Get medical assistance as soon example, immerse the person in a tub symptoms: environment. If you don’t have air as possible. of cool water, place the person in a • Individual loses the ability to conditioning, consider visiting an air- cool shower, spray the person with Source: www.cdc.gov sweat and, therefore, is unable to cool conditioned shopping mall or public down; and library to cool off. • Body temperature rises to 106 • Wear lightweight clothing. Replacing Vital Documents degrees F or higher within 10 to 15 • If possible, remain indoors in the minutes. heat of the day. The U.S. government’s official Web portal is firstgov.gov. This Web site Warning signs for heat stroke • Do not engage in strenuous is an all-inclusive source of information related to our governments — be may include the following: activities. it federal, state, local or tribal. Included in the site is a page with a collection of links for help in replac- • An extremely high body temper- If you have older, at-risk relatives or neighbors, you can help them ing documents that have been lost or damaged: bank records; birth, mar- ature (above 103 degrees F) riage, and death certificates; damaged money; document restoration; • Red, hot and dry skin (no sweat- protect themselves from heat stroke and heat exhaustion by — drivers’ licenses and vehicle registration; federal civilian personnel ing) records; immigration documents; medical information forms; Medicare • Visiting them at least twice a day • Rapid, strong pulse card replacement; military records; passports; savings bonds; Social and watching them for signs of heat • Throbbing headache Security cards; and tax returns. The exact site for these links is: exhaustion or heat stroke. • Dizziness • Taking them to air-conditioned http://www.firstgov.gov/Citizen/Topics/PublicSafety/ • Nausea locations if they have transportation Hurricane_Katrina_Recovery/Vital_Docs.shtml Heat Exhaustion problems. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high Are You Prepared for Pandemic Influenza? Continued from page 10 temperatures and inadequate or un- influenza viruses. Bird flu viruses do that could lead to an influenza • Use a food thermometer to ensure balanced replacement of fluids. not usually infect humans, but since pandemic. poultry has been fully cooked. For 1997 there have been a number of example, cook a whole chicken to 180 Warning signs of heat exhaus- confirmed cases of human infection Is It Safe to Eat Poultry? degrees F in an oven set to a mini- tion may include the following: from bird flu viruses. Most of these Yes, it is safe to eat properly cooked mum of 325 degrees F. • Heavy sweating resulted from direct or close contact poultry. Cooking destroys germs, • Paleness with infected birds (e.g., domesticat- including the bird flu virus. The What Types of Birds Can • Muscle cramps ed chickens, ducks, and turkeys). The United States bans imports of poultry Carry Bird Flu Viruses? • Tiredness spread of bird flu viruses from an and poultry products from countries Wild birds can carry bird flu virus- • Weakness infected person to another person has where bird flu has been found. es, but usually do not get sick from • Dizziness been reported very rarely and has not Guidelines for the safe preparation of them. Domesticated birds (e.g., farm- • Headache been reported to continue beyond poultry include the following: raised chickens, ducks and turkeys) • Nausea or vomiting one person. A worldwide pandemic • Wash hands before and after han- can become sick with bird flu if they dling food. • Fainting could occur if a bird flu virus were come into contact with an infected to change so that it could easily • Keep raw poultry and its juices • Moist, cool skin wild bird. Domesticated birds usually be passed from person to person. away from other foods. die from the disease. • Fast, weak pulse Experts around the world are watch- • Keep hands, utensils, and surfaces, • Fast, shallow breaths ing for changes in bird flu viruses such as cutting boards, clean. Source: www.pandemicflu.gov Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 21 Special Needs Assistance – Tips Special Needs Registry telephone • If you require oxygen, check with Shelters are frequently local schools. provide advanced medical care. A numbers for all Florida counties your supplier about emergency Public shelters available under emer- caregiver must accompany Special are on page 24. plans. gency conditions will accept anyone Needs Shelter clients. Shelter medical • If you require respirators or other who is self-sufficient and needs no staff will be unfamiliar with your medi- egardless of one’s medical or electric dependent medical equip- outside professional assistance in cal condition and treatment. To learn physical condition, everyone ment, you should make prior medical performing activities of daily living more about the requirements for stay- Rshould pre-plan for evacuation, arrangements with your physician. (ADL). ing in a Special Needs Shelter, call should the need arise. The best and You should also register, in advance, your county’s Special Needs Registry. safest evacuation choices include with your local power company. Special Needs Shelters (see page 24). staying with relatives or friends out Most counties have Special Needs of the area, checking into a Public Shelters Shelters. Some are units within Hospital/Nursing Home hotel/motel, or pre-admission into a Because some people do not have American Red Cross public shelters; If your physician has decided that medical facility if medically neces- the option of independent evacuation some are shelters solely used for during an emergency you need to be sary. If you have medical issues, out of the area, the American Red those with special needs. Special cared for in a skilled nursing facility, where you can best be supported Cross operates public shelters. Public Needs Shelters are available for those such as a hospital or nursing home, during a hurricane should be a joint shelters are shelters of last resort, individuals who require ADL assis- he or she must arrange pre-admit- decision of your physician, home located outside of the storm surge tance. Basic medical assistance and tance prior to evacuation with a spe- health agency, caregiver, family and area, used for protecting residents monitoring will be available. Special cific facility. You must have a copy of yourself. To assist in making a deci- who reside in vulnerable areas and Needs Shelters are not equipped with the pre-admission letter from your sion concerning your care, the follow- structures. These facilities are not advanced medical equipment or doctor stating that you are to be taken ing information is provided: hospitals, nursing homes or hotels. medications, nor are they staffed to Continued from page 22 If you have special needs — • Find out about special assistance that may be available in your com- Emergency-Preparedness Prescription munity. Call the Special Needs Registry in your county and, if eligi- ble, complete the necessary forms to Medication Refills register. s a result of legislation passed and This law is in effect when the following conditions occur: • Create a network of neighbors, signed into law in 2006, it is now pos- relatives, friends and coworkers to 1. The person seeking the prescription medication refill must live in sible to obtain emergency-prepared- aid you in an emergency. Discuss A a county that: your needs and make sure everyone ness prescription medication refills if it looks as if a hurricane may strike your area. • Is under a hurricane warning issued by the knows how to operate necessary National Weather Service; equipment. Section 29 of Florida Chapter Law 06-71 • Discuss your needs with your (enrolled version of House Bill 7121) requires • Is declared to be under a state of emergency in employer. all health insurers, managed care organiza- an executive order issued by the Governor; or • If you are mobility impaired and tions, and other entities that are licensed by • Has activated its emergency operations center live or work in a high-rise building, the Office of Insurance Regulation and pro- and its emergency management plan. have an escape chair. vide prescription medication coverage as • If you live in an apartment build- part of a policy or contract to waive time 2. The prescription medication refill must be requested within 30 days ing, ask the management to mark restrictions on prescription medication • After any of the conditions listed above accessible exits clearly and to make refills. This requirement includes suspend- (in section 1) occur; or arrangements to help you leave the ing electronic “refill too soon” edits to phar- • Until these conditions are terminated by authority building. macies. The law enables those who are that issued the conditions; or • Keep specialized items ready, insured or are subscribers of prescription including extra wheelchair batteries, medication plans to refill prescriptions in • When these conditions no longer exist. oxygen, catheters, medication, food advance of a hurricane. To do this, there for service animals and any other 3. The time period for the waiver of prescription medication refills must be authorized refills remaining for the items you might need. may be extended in 15- or 30-day increments by emergency orders prescription medication. The law authorizes • Keep a list of the type and model issued by the Office of Insurance Regulation. numbers of the medical devices you payment to pharmacies for at least a thirty- require. day supply of any prescription medication. This law became effective July 1, 2006. To read the law in its entirety, • Be sure to make provisions for It does not matter when a pharmacist go to: medications that require refrigeration. most recently filled the prescription. http://election.dos.state.fl.us/laws/06laws/ch_2006-071.pdf Elder Update 22 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue ADDITIONAL TIPS Protect Yourself From Home • Ask friends and family for refer- • Never accept an offer to take you rals, and ask contractors for cus- to the bank to withdraw money Repair Fraud tomer references. for any reason. ne of the many things learned - Required permits and schedule of • Never pay cash for a job. Paying • Never agree to get your own from last year’s hurricane inspections; by check or money order provides permits. a written record. season is that the likelihood - If any complaints have been filed • An unlicensed “handyman” can- O • Get written estimates that include not legally perform any work val- of unscrupulous activity increases against the contractor; and during and after a crisis. Unfortu- a description of the job and item- ued at more thatn $1,000 for the - If any other requirements or legal ized costs. entire job. nately, last year numerous Floridians notices pertain to the job. fell victim to home repair fraud, • Always require a written contract, many of them older adults. 2006 Hurricane Season Continued from page 1 As we approach the coming hur- no matter how small the job. The con- El Niño produced increased wind These conditions are not anticipated ricane season, the best way for tract should include, at minimum, shear. These conditions minimized for the 2007 hurricane season. And Florida’s older adults to protect the following: - Contractor’s name; thunderstorm activity across the the truth is, if only one major hurri- themselves is to become informed western half of the main hurricane cane strikes the U.S., but it strikes and educated about what they can - Business name, address, phone formation regions. Therefore, tropical where you live, then the hurricane to do to avoid becoming victims of number and fax. storm and hurricane formation was season is a disaster. So be responsible. home repair fraud. The following - License number and type; suppressed. Additionally, a strong Have a plan for what you will do in are some helpful tips to consider - Insurance information; low-pressure system with enhanced the event of an emergency. Share your when consulting someone about - Payment and inspection schedule; westerly winds across the eastern plan with your family and friends. repairing damage to your home: - Job plans and specifications; U.S. kept the hurricanes that did form Have an emergency supply kit. Be well out to sea. Thus, no hurricanes prepared to survive on your own for • Before choosing a contractor, con- - Specific types and grades of made landfall within the United at least three days. Take responsibility tact your local building department materials; States during 2006. for your personal safety. to determine the following: - Itemized total costs; - Licensing requirements; - Warranties on materials and 2007-2010 ATLANTIC TROPICAL CYCLONE NAMES workmanship; - If the contractor has a current and In the event that more than 21 named tropical cyclones occur in the - Start and completion dates; and valid license, liability and worker’s Atlantic basin in a season, additional storms will take names from the compensation insurance, and is - Contractor’s commitment to get Greek alphabet. The World Meteorological Organization established bonded; all permits. this naming convention. www.nhc.noaa.gov 2007 2008 2009 2010 GREEK NAMES Special Needs Assistance – Tips Continued from page 21 ANDREA ARTHUR ANA ALEX ALPHA BARRY BERTHA BILL BONNIE BETA to a specific hospital or nursing home Your Responsibilities CHANTAL CRISTOBAL CLAUDETTE COLIN GAMMA DELTA and arrangements have been made Share your disaster plans with a DEAN DOLLY DANNY DANIELLE EPSILON with the facility for admittance. This relative or friend outside the area. ERIN EDOUARD ERIKA EARL letter must accompany you when ZETA Call them after a disaster and let FELIX FAY FRED FRANCES ETA you are evacuated. Medicare will them know that you are all right and GABRIELLE GUSTAV GRACE GASTON THETA only pay for hospitalization claims where you will be if your home is HUMBERTO HANNA HENRI HERMINE IOTA that are deemed medically necessary; damaged. When a hurricane or other KAPPA therefore, arrangements must be INGRID IKE IDA IGOR emergency is threatening, continually JERRY JOSEPHINE JOAQUIN JULIA LAMBDA made in advance. If any costs arise monitor radio and/or TV to deter- MU KAREN KYLE KATE KARL from your admittance, you are mine if you are included in the evac- NU responsible for those costs. uation area. If your area is ordered to LORENZO LAURA LARRY LISA XI Transportation evacuate, gather your belongings and MELISSA MARCO MINDY MATTHEW OMICRON NOEL NANA NICHOLAS NICOLE PI Residents who require transporta- proceed to your evacuation destina- tion. If you have registered for trans- OLGA OMAR ODETTE OTTO RHO tion assistance can indicate this need SIGMA with the Special Needs Registry and portation, units will be dispatched to PABLO PALOMA PETER PAULA your location. Bring your hurricane REBEKAH RENE ROSE RICHARD TAU will be taken to public shelters, spe- UPSILON disaster supplies (see page 12). SEBASTIEN SALLY SAM SHARY cial needs shelters or medical facili- PHI ties. Transportation is not provided to Sources: Pasco County Office of TANYA TEDDY TERESA TOMAS CHI private homes, hotels or locations Emergency Management and VAN VICKY VICTOR VIRGINIE PSI outside of the county. www.stpete.org/stormeld.htm WENDY WILFRED WANDA WALTER OMEGA Elder Update June 2007 Special Issue DISASTER PREPAREDNESS 23 Information and Referral FLORIDA ELDER HELPLINE DIRECTORY Alachua...... 800-262-2243 Martin: 1-800-96-ELDER (800-963-5337) Baker...... 888-242-4464 in-county...... 211 Access to information regarding elder services and activities Bay ...... 866-467-4624 out-of-county ...... 561-383-1112 is available through the Elder Helpline Information and Referral Bradford...... 800-262-2243 Miami-Dade...... 305-670-4357 service with each Florida county for the hearing or speech Brevard...... 321-631-2747 Monroe...... 305-670-4357 impaired, all Elder Helplines can be accessed through the Florida Broward...... 954-714-3464 Nassau...... 888-242-4464 Calhoun ...... 866-467-4624 Relay by simply dialing 711 from anywhere in the state. Okaloosa...... 866-531-8011 Charlotte...... 866-413-5337 Okeechobee: Citrus...... 800-262-2243 in-county...... 211 FLORIDA AREA AGENCIES ON AGING (Counties Served) Clay ...... 888-242-4464 out-of-county ...... 561-383-1112 The 11 area agencies on aging (AAAs) work closely with the Florida Depart- Collier ...... 866-413-5337 Orange: Columbia...... 800-262-2243 ment of Elder Affairs to develop effective and efficient projects benefiting a large in-county...... 211 DeSoto ...... 866-413-5337 out-of-county ...... 407-839-4357 number of Florida’s constituency of almost four million seniors. To learn of pro- Dixie ...... 800-262-2243 grams and services in your area, contact the AAA for your county. Osceola: Duval...... 888-242-4464 in-county...... 211 Northwest Florida Area West Central Florida Area Escambia ...... 866-531-8011 out-of-county ...... 407-839-4357 Agency on Aging Agency on Aging Flagler...... 888-242-4464 Palm Beach: 5090 Commerce Park Circle 5905 Breckenridge Parkway, Suite F Franklin...... 866-467-4624 in-county...... 211 Pensacola, FL 32505 Tampa, FL 33610-4239 Gadsden...... 866-467-4624 out-of-county ...... 561-383-1112 850-494-7101 • 1-866-531-8011 1-800-336-2226 • 813-740-3888 Gilchrist ...... 800-262-2243 Pasco: Glades ...... 866-413-5337 (Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and (Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, in-state ...... 800-861-8111 Gulf ...... 866-467-4624 Walton Counties) Manatee and Polk Counties) out-of-state...... 727-217-8111 http://www.nwflaaa.org http://www.wcfaaa.org Hamilton ...... 800-262-2243 Hardee ...... 800-336-2226 Pinellas...... 727-217-8111 Hendry ...... 866-413-5337 Polk ...... 800-336-2226 Area Agency on Aging Senior Resource Alliance Putnam ...... 800-262-2243 of North Florida, Inc. 988 Woodcock Road, Suite 200 Hernando ...... 800-262-2243 Highlands ...... 800-336-2226 Santa Rosa ...... 866-531-8011 2414 Mahan Drive Orlando, FL 32803 Sarasota ...... 866-413-5337 407-228-1800 Hillsborough...... 800-336-2226 Tallahassee, FL 32304 Seminole: 850-488-0055 • 1-866-467-4624 (Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Holmes ...... 866-467-4624 Counties) Indian River: in-county...... 211 (Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, out-of-county ...... 407-839-4357 http://www.seniorresourcealliance.org in-county...... 211 Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, St. Johns ...... 888-242-4464 Liberty, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla and out-of-county ...... 561-383-1112 Area Agency on Aging Jackson ...... 866-467-4624 St. Lucie: Washington Counties) in-county...... 211 http://www.aaanf.org of Southwest Florida Jefferson...... 866-467-4624 2285 First Street Lafayette ...... 800-262-2243 out-of-county ...... 561-383-1112 Sumter ...... 800-262-2243 Mid Florida Area Fort Myers, FL 33901 Lake...... 800-262-2243 Agency on Aging 239-332-4233 Lee ...... 866-413-5337 Suwannee ...... 800-262-2243 5700 S.W. 34th St., Suite 222 (Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Leon ...... 866-467-4624 Taylor ...... 866-467-4624 Gainesville, FL 32608 Lee and Sarasota Counties) Levy ...... 800-262-2243 Union ...... 800-262-2243 352-378-6649 • 1-800-262-2243 http://www.aaaswfl.org Liberty...... 866-467-4624 Volusia ...... 888-242-4464 Madison ...... 866-467-4624 Wakulla...... 866-467-4624 (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Area Agency on Aging of Palm Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Manatee ...... 800-336-2226 Walton ...... 866-531-8011 Beach/Treasure Coast, Inc. Marion...... 800-262-2243 Washington...... 866-467-4624 Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, 1764 N. Congress Avenue, Suite 201 Sumter, Suwannee and Union Counties) West Palm Beach, FL 33409 If you need information about, or referral to, a service provider outside the state http://www.mfaaa.org 561-684-5885 of Florida, call the national Eldercare Locator Service at (800) 677-1116. An infor- (Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, mation specialist will assist you Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-11 p.m. EST. Northeast Florida Area Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties) For people with Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf (TDD), all Elder Helplines, Agency on Aging http://www.areaagency.org 4160 Woodcock Drive, 2nd Floor, as well as the Eldercare Locator Service can be accessed through Florida Relay Service at (800) 955-8771. Jacksonville, FL 32207 Aging and Disability Resouce 904-391-6600 • 1-888-242-4464 Center of Broward County Elder Helpline Can Assist Non-English Speakers (Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, 5345 N.W. 35th Ave. St. Johns and Volusia Counties) Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 y calling the Elder Helpline, Florida’s elders can http://www.elderhelpline.org 954-714-3456 access information and referral services through (Broward County) B Area Agency on Aging http://www.adrcbroward.org the Language Line. Telephone interpreters provide of Pasco-Pinellas live, on-line assistance by translating from English 9887 Fourth Street North Alliance for Aging into as many as 148 different languages. Suite 100 9500 S. Dadeland Blvd., Suite 400 St. Petersburg, FL 33702 Miami, FL 33156 727-570-9696 305-670-6500 Are you worried that an elder relative or friend may be the victim (Pasco and Pinellas Counties) (Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties) of abuse? You can report known or suspected cases of abuses by http://www.agingcarefl.org http://www.allianceforaging.org calling Florida’s hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE (962-2873). Elder Update 24 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS June 2007 Special Issue Government and Voluntary Agencies Special Needs Registries Disaster Contact Information To learn about services, including Special Needs Shelters, provided by your county for those with special needs or to Family, friends and neighbors who wish to assist elderly sign up for the Special Needs Registry, call your county. or special-needs storm survivors may find the following list of telephone numbers helpful: Alachua (352) 264-6500 Leon (850) 488-5921 Baker (904) 259-6111 Levy (352) 486-5213 Florida Emergency Information Line 800-342-3557 Bay (850) 784-4000 Liberty (850) 643-2339 FEMA Registration (first step for disaster assistance) 800-621-3362 Bradford (904) 966-6336 Madison (850) 973-3698 or 800-621-FEMA Brevard (321) 637-6670 Manatee (941) 749-3022 FEMA (TTY for Hearing Impaired) 800-462-7585 Broward (954) 537-2888 Marion (352) 622-3205 American Red Cross (food, shelter, financial assistance) 866-438-4636 or TDD line- (954) 537-2882 Martin (772) 287-1652 (volunteer & donations) 866-435-7669 Calhoun (850) 674-8075 Miami-Dade (305) 513-7700 Salvation Army 800-725-2769 Charlotte (941) 505-4620 or 311 Citrus (352) 746-6555 Hunger Hotline 800-329-3663 Monroe (305) 292-4591 Clay (904) 284-7703 (Florida Association for Community Actions) Nassau (904) 548-4980 Collier (239) 774-8444 America’s Second Harvest (food) 800-771-2303 Okaloosa (850) 651-7560 Columbia (386) 758-1125 Okeechobee (863) 462-5776 Florida Volunteer and Donations Hotline 800-354-3571 Dade (See Miami-Dade) Orange (407) 650-4047 Elder Helpline (Information and referral) 800-963-5337 DeSoto (863) 993-4831 or (407) 836-3111 (Florida Department of Elder Affair) Dixie (352) 498-1240 Osceola (407) 343-7000 Project HOPE (Crisis Counseling) 866-518-1825 Duval (904) 630-2472 Palm Beach (561) 712-6400 (Florida Department of Children and Families) Escambia (850) 595-3311 Pasco (727) 847-8959 Disaster Food Stamp Hotline 800-342-9274 or (850) 471-6400 or (TDD) (352) 521-5137 (Florida Department of Children and Families) Flagler (386) 437-7381 Pinellas (727) 464-3800 or (386) 437-7382 Florida Department of Financial Services (claims problems) 800-227-8676 Polk (863) 534-5600 Franklin (850) 653-8977 or 800-22-STORM Putnam (386) 329-0379 Gadsden (850) 875-8642 Price Gouging Hotline (Florida State Attorney General) 800-646-0444 Santa Rosa (850) 983-5360 Gilchrist (352) 463-3134 Sarasota (941) 951-5283 Price Gouging Hotline 800-435-7352 Glades (863) 946-6020 (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) or (941) 861-5000 Gulf (850) 229-9111 Seminole (407) 665-5102 Florida Abuse Hotline 800-962-2873 Hamilton (386) 792-6647 St. Johns (904) 824-5550 or 1-800-96ABUSE Hardee (863) 773-6373 St. Lucie (772) 461-5201 Small Business Administration Helpline 800-359-2227 Hendry (863) 612-4700 or (772) 462-1770 (SBA Loans for applicants) Hernando (352) 754-4083 Sumter (352) 569-6000 Social Security Administration (information on programs) 800-772-1213 Highlands (863) 385-1112 Suwannee (386) 364-3405 IRS (tax information) 800-829-1040 Hillsborough (813) 307-8015 Taylor (850) 838-3575 ext. 6006 U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs 800-827-1000 Union (386) 496-4300 Holmes (850) 547-1112 (information and referral) Volusia Indian River (772) 567-2154 FEMA Fraud & Abuse Hotline 800-323-8603 Daytona Beach area (386) 258-4088 Jackson (850) 482-5028 West Volusia area (386) 736-5980 (Department of Homeland Security) Jefferson (850) 342-0211 Southeast Volusia area (386) 423-3395 Florida Child Care (resource and referral) 888-352-4453 Lafayette (386) 294-1950 Wakulla (850) 926-0861 Florida Power & Light (outages update) 800-468-8243 Lake (352) 343-9420 Walton (850) 892-8066 Unemployment Claims (Agency for Workforce Innovation) 800-204-2418 Lee (239) 477-3600 Washington (850) 638-6203