Susan Sorensen

I did have a topic selected but when the recent tsunami devastated Japan, my plans changed. This month the topic is how to prepare for a disaster. We tend to think we are safe in our own paradise on the Olympic Peninsula but we know that can change quickly. Let’s discuss what you can do to be better prepared for a disaster situation.

 

Whether you do or don’t have diabetes, there are six basic items the Red Cross suggests that you have ready for an emergency: water, food, first aid kits, clothing, tools and items for personal medical conditions.

 

For a complete list of items, look at the Red Cross web site at www.redcross.org. Let’s look at each of these topics so that you can start to plan what you would gather together.

 

For an adequate water supply, plan on storing one gallon of water per adult per day with a supply to last for at least 72 hours. We can survive without food but our body must have hydration! A recent newspaper article stated that gallon milk containers should not be used for water storage but instead to use two-liter soda containers. No reason for the container guidelines was given. (One gallon equals about two two-liter bottles.)

 

For food, choose items that have a long shelf life and do not require refrigeration. Good options are granola bars, canned food, dried fruit and my personal favorite, peanut butter. If canned fruit is in heavy syrup, draining the syrup and rinsing with water will remove most of the excess sugar. Along with canned food, remember to include a non-electric can opener!

 

A change of clothing with extra dry socks is helpful for your health and comfort. What starts as a minor foot irritation can progress to a serious infection if your feet remain wet. Waterproof outerwear will help to keep you warm and dry without adding weight. Include a flashlight, batteries and portable radio to provide light and information updates.

 

Proper storage of insulin and quantity of medications has been the most common issue raised. Try always to have at least two weeks’ supply of medication on hand, along with a complete list of your drugs, dosages and frequency. Be creative when thinking about storing insulin.

 

Check out your local pharmacy for items that have gel-pack inserts to provide cool storage or look online at www.medicool.com for useful medication storage ideas. Another option is to obtain a small Styrofoam container and chemical cold packs that can be activated as you need them.

 

Along with insulin, pack sufficient syringes; they don’t occupy much space and your insulin is useless without syringes. In conjunction with your medication, insulin and syringes, it is important to have your glucose monitor, lancets and strips organized and ready. Since strips are not interchangeable between different brands of monitors, it is important to have sufficient test strips that will work with your specific monitor.

 

Take a few minutes to think about what you would need to be self-sustaining for at least 72 hours and put those items in an easily transportable container. It can make a difference in your life.

 

Susan Sorensen is a registered nurse who does diabetes education in the community and can be reached at www.starladydiabetes.com.