Partnering with older Americans and engaging them in preparedness efforts can make a significant difference in communities before, during, and after disasters. On July 11-12, the Delaware State Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) hosted a two-day Disaster Preparedness class at the Barclay Farms Senior Community in Camden, DE. 40 staff members and residents received fire extinguisher training in preparation for a digital fire suppression exercise, and participated in several other activities.
Everyone has a role in disaster response. Here are a few ways you can engage older Americans in your community and empower them to prepare for disasters:
- Discuss what hazards might impact their community.
- Help them to sign up for Local Emergency Alerts.
- Help them to create a disaster support network.
- Make sure their Emergency Supply Kits are updated.
- Discuss evacuation and shelter-in-place plans.
- Be sure their critical documents and valuables are protected.
Remember preparedness is vital for everyone! For more information and resources on engaging older Americans in disaster preparedness, read Ready.gov’s Preparing Makes Sense for Older Americans or visit the Red Cross website.
No comments:
Post a Comment