Guest Blog: ConnectiCare
Being ready for a winter storm is especially important for caregivers who are responsible for their loved ones. Here are some things that you can do to be prepared.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your relatives, neighbors, friends, medical team and spiritual family for help and be specific about what they can do. Make sure key financial documents, health care power of attorney and other advance directives are easy to access. Have copies in a secure online storage app and give copies to a trusted person, like an attorney or family member.
Keep lists of important contacts, both in a mobile device and on paper, in case cellphone service is disrupted.
Keep a basic supply kit on hand:
- Water: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
- Food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries
- Medications for you and your loved ones
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger
Be careful while shoveling the snow after the storm. Snow shoveling is a known trigger for heart attacks and there are ways you can stay safe.
To receive alerts on Connecticut snow storms, visit CT Alert.