HURRICANE GUIDE - MEDICAL SAFETY

Medications
Taking medications is an important routine for many, and that routine shouldn't stop during severe weather. Too often, it's easy to forget to prepare and pack your prescriptions if you're evacuating.

Health experts say when you're getting ready for a storm, stock-up your medication. Make sure you have at least two weeks worth. Remember to have many over-the-counter products too, like asprin, antiseptic and bandages.

Write down medications and dosages you normally take and keep it in your wallet or purse as a reminder for yourself and your family. Always keep your medications in the bottles they come in to avoid a potentially dangerous mix-up.

Remember to take all medications with you when you evacuate as pharmacies in outer states or areas may have a tough time filling prescriptions. They may not be able to verify your prescriptions when phone and computer connections are down.

Electrical Life Support Equipment
If you are dependent upon medical equipment due to a handicap or medical condition, make sure to get a letter from your doctor and file copies with both your telephone and electric services. This will enable them to prioritize the restoration of your services to you.