Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th and brings with it the potential to trigger severe tropical weather, tornadoes and devastating floods. But, hurricanes aren’t the only weather threat that happens year round. From wildfires to hail storms to extreme temperatures, major weather events are happening more often — and in more locations.

Those storms can leave older adults vulnerable, particularly those with chronic conditions that require regular medication and care. Here are tips for older adults and their caregivers to stay safe before, during and after a storm.

Before the storm

When bad weather hits the forecast, make a game plan.

1. Determine your home’s risks

Know what’s coming and what it means for where you live. If you live in a flood-prone area, for example, heavy rain or a hurricane may pose a direct threat to your home. Understanding your local risk will help you decide whether to stay or go. If emergency officials recommend evacuating your area, take their advice.

2. Gather supplies

Ahead of a storm, stock up on at least three to five days of water and non-perishable food for everybody in your household. In case you need to quickly evacuate, have a go-bag ready with clothes, toiletries and food. Keep important documents — such as your ID, insurance policies, medical records, and legal documents — either in that same bag or nearby in a waterproof container.

3. Manage medical needs

Severe weather conditions can shut down roads and businesses, making it difficult to refill critical medications. ArchWell Health always recommends refilling medications one to two weeks before they run out. Some pharmacies will allow early refills if a State of Emergency is declared. Contact your ArchWell Health care team for guidance.

Many refrigerated medications can be stored at room temperature, but may need to be replaced if exposed to excessive heat or cold. Check with your pharmacist about how to care for any refrigerated medications. In case of a power outage, ensure powered medical devices are charged up and that you have extra batteries on hand.

4. Build a network

Check in with neighbors, family and friends to share your plans and ask about theirs. Identify ways you can support each other, such as sharing supplies or arranging transportation if evacuation is necessary. Agree on a check-in schedule — that way, someone knows you are safe, and you know the same about them.

During the storm

As the storm rages, stay indoors and stick to your normal routines.

Stick to routines

A serious storm can be stressful and disrupt our usual routines. But it’s important to stay healthy, and that includes eating meals, staying hydrated and taking your medication as scheduled. Make sure you have some easy-to-prepare foods and snacks on hand in case power is out or you can’t cook.

Ask for help

Check in with your neighbors and loved ones on the schedule you agreed to. Your ArchWell Health care team can also help you navigate any health concerns that come up during the storm. If disaster strikes and your home suffers damage — or you are injured — call 911.

After the storm

Just because the worst has passed doesn’t mean you can let down your guard.

Be careful

After a storm, you may be eager to clean up, but downed power lines, ice and hidden hazards in standing water pose significant dangers. If you’re dealing with physical limitations, don’t risk injury. Rely on neighbors and loved ones for support.

If you need to hire help for repairs or cleanup, be wary of scam artists. They include unsolicited contractors or individuals falsely claiming to represent the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Always ask for credentials and never pay in full upfront.

Tend to medical needs

Check with your pharmacist about refrigerated medications if they sat at room temperature. Charge up your medical devices if power was lost. And if you’ve been displaced, contact your mail-order pharmacy or ArchWell Health care team to ensure any needed refills get to you.

ArchWell Health is here

No matter the forecast, ArchWell Health’s expert care teams are ready to help you navigate health concerns, manage medications, and stay safe. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to your local ArchWell Health center anytime.