Francis Mojica, BSW, BSOC, MHSA
Alerts for atmospheric events such as hurricanes or tropical storms are often cause for concern. However, the key to managing them effectively is to be well prepared. If you’re an older adult, you should be familiar with these strategies for getting organized and prepared for a hurricane.
How to prepare your home before a hurricane or any other severe weather event:
- Clear hallways and exit doors of any objects that could pose a hazard when passing through.
- If you have gas tanks, make sure they are properly secured and in well-ventilated areas.
- If you have a generator, check with an electrician on its proper use and place it in a well-ventilated, easily accessible area.
- Secure all doors and locate the emergency exit.
- Ask neighbors, friends, or family for help installing storm shutters and wooden panels.
- Make sure that the gutters (or drainage ditches) are free of grass or dirt that could trap water and cause flooding on the roadway in front of your home.
Tips for stocking up on food before a hurricane or any weather event:
- Stock up on canned foods such as beans, sausages, and canned chicken, among others, depending on your diet, but preferably low in salt.
- Keep a supply of bottled water, nutritional drinks, and powdered or shelf-stable milk.
- Build up a pantry stocked with grains like rice, corn, and vegetables.
- Include quick snacks for a boost of energy, such as packets of almonds, walnuts, granola and fruit bars, and tea bags.
During the weather event:
We recommend waiting out the storm in a safe place where you have access to essential items such as flashlights, clean clothes, soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, and deodorant. You should also make sure you have a battery-powered radio, mobile phone with a full charge, your medications, and important documents in a secure place, such as:
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Marriage Certificate
- Title deeds for your home and vehicle
- List of medications with times of administration
- Phone numbers of family members and friends
- Cash
- ID
If you use medications, they should be labeled with your name and time of use. For medications requiring refrigeration, you can use electric or conventional coolers with ice packs and keep them nearby so you can store your medications in case of a power outage.
Remember that being prepared for a weather event helps keep you safe. However, if you think your home is not suitable or is located in a flood zone, you can call the following phone numbers for guidance:
- Bureau for Emergency Management and Disaster Administration (Negociado para el Manejo de Emergencias y Administración de Desastres, NMEAD)
787-724-0124 - Template for Family Emergency Plan:
https://www.ready.gov/plan-form
If you or a family member’s life is at risk, call the following phone numbers:
- Emergency Response System
911
- American Red Cross
(787) 758-8150
- Bureau for Emergency Management and Disaster Administration (NMEAD)
(787) 724-0124
- P.R. Police
(787) 343-2020
- P.R. Firefighters Corps
(787) 725-3444
- P.R. National Guard
(787) 721-3131
- Department of Health
(787) 765-2929
- ASSMCA’s PAS Line
1-800-981-0023
Getting ready for a hurricane takes time and effort, but it’s essential to keep older adults safe. Don’t be caught off guard by a hurricane. Follow these tips and make sure you’re prepared for any situation. Remember that safety is the most important thing, and with the proper preparation, you will be able to face any challenge that comes your way.