Seniors, it’s important to be prepared!

In New Jersey alone, we’ve endured winter storms, floods, tornadoes, an earthquake, and hurricanes.

Seniors (whether living independently at home, or in an assisted living facility) should have an emergency plan and an emergency kit, according to the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services and the American Red Cross. The emergency plan and kit should both be reviewed at six monthly intervals. Family members should be aware of the plan, as well as the whereabouts of the kit.

It’s also important to sit down with family members to decide how you’ll get in contact with each other, and where you’ll go in the event of an emergency. If your loved one lives alone–and you’re far away–it’s crucial to have a backup relative or friend who will check on him/her should an emergency happen.

Emergency Checklists

These checklists cover all you need in emergencies.

• Basic Needs & Supplies Checklist
• Cold Weather Checklist
• Checklist for Your Vehicle

View these emergency checklists.

Where to Get Local Information
Listen for emergency information on local radio, TV and cable stations, and use your battery-powered radio to monitor Emergency Alert System (EAS) information on the EAS radio stations in your area.

Burlington County: WKDN 106.9 FM
Mercer County: WNJT 88.1 FM
TIP: FOR AUTHORITATIVE EMERGENCY INFORMATION IN YOUR AREA, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT OR VISIT www.njhomelandsecurity.gov.

Additional Resources
New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services — www.nj.gov/health/er — Phone: 609-588-7500
CDC: Emergency Preparedness & Response — www.cdc.gov/features/emergency.html
FEMA: Building an Emergency Kit — http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit
FEMA: Family Emergency Plan — www.ready.gov/make-a-plan

Download our Emergency Preparedness Community Resource Bulletin.