Preparedness for Older Americans

Get Informed

• Know what disasters could affect your area, which could call for an evacuation and when to shelter in place.
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV, radio, and follow mobile alert and mobile warnings about severe weather in your area.
• Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.

Make a Plan

Determine any special assistance you may need and include in your emergency plan.

• Create a support network of family, friends and others who can assist you during an emergency and share your disaster plans with them. Practice your plan with them.
• Make sure they have an extra key to your home, know where you keep your emergency supplies and how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine.
• If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.
• If you have a communication-related disability, note the best way to communicate with you.
• Don’t forget your pets or service animals. Not all shelters accept pets so plan for alternatives.
  • Consider loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area.
  • Prepare an emergency kit for your pet.
• For related information visit our page on access and functional needs.

Get Your Benefits Electronically

A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is a simple, important way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks.