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Survival Guide for Seniors
Earthquake and Fire Safety for Senior Citizens and the Disabled
- If you use life-support equipment, such as oxygen, have someone fasten the large tank securely to prevent it from falling over in a disaster.
- If you use a wheelchair, walker, crutches, canes or other types of mechanical walking aids, keep them near you at all times. If possible, have extra aids, such as canes, available in different location throughout your home.
- Place a security light in each room. These lights plug into any electrical wall outlet and light up automatically if there is a loss electricity. They will continue operating automatically for 4 to 6 hours and you can turn them on and off by hand in an emergency. (Available in many hardware stores.)
- Have a whistle available which can be used to call for help in an emergency.
- If you use battery-operated equipment, have extra batteries available and replace them twice a year.
- If your life-support equipment requires electricity, purchasing an emergency generator is recommended.
- If you use a hearing aid, keep an extra supply of batteries with your emergency supplies. Remember to check them regularly.
- Have a smoke detector and fire alarm system installed. If you have some difficulty hearing, install the system that has flashing strobe lights to get your attention. If you have a battery operated detector, replace batteries twice a year when your change your clocks, in the spring, and in the fall.
- If you wear glasses or contact lenses, have an extra pair with your emergency supplies. Also, have canes available at different locations in your home, which can aid help in getting around after a disaster.
- Have a plan with your neighbors, so you can let them know that you are all right or need help. Arrange to put up some type of signal, such as a white towel, which they know means that you are okay.
FOR A FREE COPY OF " EARTHQUAKES"-A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR SENIORS, CALL 596-3758
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