Hurricane season is just around the corner. The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, 2017 and ends on November 30. During this time, residents of Brevard County are on the edge of their seats waiting and watching to see if tropical disturbances transition to tropical depressions and then onto tropical storms and then…hurricanes. As a resident of Florida, it is always wise to pay attention to the weather brewing in the Atlantic since it can spell a hurricane of massive proportion. This time of year can be frightening for almost anyone. This is especially true for seniors who are living at home alone. Champion Home Health Care serves the seniors in Melbourne, FL with specialized in-home health care. We also provide a wide range of medical services for those needing medical assistance but prefer to be at home. We take care of the health of the ones you love while providing them with the independence they desire. Seniors are our mission and we want them to be safe during this time of year.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an active hurricane season this year with somewhere between 11 and 17 named storms this year. Of these, NOAA believes 5 to 9 will become hurricanes. The probability of a hurricane making landfall in Brevard is high this year so it is important that everyone is prepared. When you are prepping your home for the season, be sure to include the seniors you love in this process. Here is a list of things you will need to make your way through this year’s hurricane season successfully.

The United States Coast Guard suggests that everyone have a survival kit for every individual in the family for at least 3 days. Disaster kits should include:

Food and Water:

  • Drinking Water – at least one gallon per person per day in a non-breakable container; additional water for pets and formula will be needed.
  • Water for Sanitation – a minimum of two quarts of water per person per day will be needed for sanitation purposes
  • Food – non-perishable items to last for 3-7 days, containers for storage, aluminum foil and plastic bags

Medicine:

  • Medications – all prescription drugs. You will need to have a full supply of all necessary medications. It is important that you do not wait to get prescriptions filled at the last minute.
  • Over the Counter – pain relievers, rubbing alcohol, activated charcoal, anti-diarrhea medications
  • First Aid – fully stocked first aid kit with items such as band aids, bandages, peroxide, anti-bacterial creams, etc.

Pets:

Pet supplies – supplies for all of your pets including food, water, and medications

This is by no means an exhaustive list but it will get you started. Remember to include 2 weeks worth of cash in the event power outages occur. There are other tools and supplies you will need as well. Most importantly, be sure to check on the seniors in your life. They are often neglected and are not prepared for severe weather occurrences. When you are preparing your immediate family be sure to include them as well.