July 12, 2018 | By: Family to Family Network
Categories: Family Support
Who could forget Hurricane Harvey? Despite warnings, most of us were not prepared for the flooding that occurred in the aftermath. Many families with children with disabilities or special health care needs were forced to relocate. Many arrived without their medications and medical supplies.
Are you prepared for an emergency?
The Texas Dept. of State Health Services has a lot of great information on their website: texasprepares.org.
Sit down with your family and decide how you will contact one another. Where will you go? What will you do in an emergency? This Emergency Plan Form is a great tool.
Have you thought about packing a Grab & Go bag? These bags are great if you need to run at a moment’s notice. Keep these tips in mind as you pack your bags:
If your child has special items that provide comfort (weighted blanket, headphones, etc.), be sure to have extras stored in the bag. Include extra diapers and wipes. Think about formula and special dietary items.
Place important paperwork in a waterproof bag or upload it to the cloud. Include copies of:
Make a copy of your child’s evaluations or upload to the cloud - IEP, IFSP, IPC or IPE. If you must relocate, this paperwork will make it easier to move to a new school, ECI program, local authority, or provider.
Bottled water is essential. Granola or energy bars are great. Take along any snacks that you and your child would like. You may need a little cash. Take small bills and rolls of quarters for vending machines.
Other items to include:
· A copy of the emergency plan form
· A list of medications with RX numbers and a minimum three-day supply. Remember to change these out occasionally
· Clothing for two to three days—including clothing you can layer and rain clothes
· Medical equipment, such as a portable oxygen tank
Being prepared can make the situation less stressful and ensure the safety of your entire family. Learn more about emergency preparedness and making a plan.
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