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Be prepared for hurricane season

  • Published
  • By Air Force Retiree News Service
FALLS CHURCH, Va. --  Hurricane season is under way, and being prepared is the best way to keep you and your family safe in the event of a natural disaster. Even if you are not one of the more than 35 million people who live in regions most affected by hurricanes, being informed of and prepared for what you should do in any emergency or disaster is a smart bet.

Be sure to have a complete emergency kit on hand. Keep it up to date and make sure everything works and your food and water has not expired. Along with food, water, a battery operated weather radio, flashlights and first-aid supplies, include any medical necessities you may need in your kit. Keep in mind that medical assistance may not be immediately available after a disaster.

Below is a list of health-related items to include in kits for each family member:

-- Copies of each family member's uniformed services identification card (or sponsor's name and Social Security number), Medicare card or other health insurance card, if applicable.

-- Copies of family members' names, addresses, phone numbers, etc.

-- Copies of medical records for each family member.

-- A list of primary care managers, other doctors' names and phone numbers.

-- Emergency contact names and phone numbers.

-- Tricare regional and pharmacy contractors and Medicare contacts.

-- A list of known prescription medications and doses.

-- A list of each family member's allergies.

-- A properly stored 30-day supply of prescription medications.

-- Non-prescription drugs such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, laxatives, itch control creams, etc.

-- Style, model and serial numbers for any medical devices.

-- Extra batteries for wheelchairs and hearing aids.

-- Any personal items such as eyeglasses and other special equipment.

For more information and more valuable tips on disaster preparedness visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's preparedness Web page at www.ready.gov/ or Tricare's disaster relief Web page at www.tricare.mil/disasterinfo . Some of the downloads on the page include a wallet card with critical contact information and a disaster preparation flier. (Courtesy of Tricare)