Local Emergency Planning Guide for Older Persons
Summary
Ready for Living (Gore District Council, Local Government) alongside our local Emergency management agency ‘Emergency Management Southland’ developed a ‘Emergency Planning Guide – A guide to Local Emergency Preparedness, your Hazards and more for Older People’ booklet specifically for the Gore District. The idea came about due to the increase of extreme weather events, natural disasters and the increasing frequency of emergency situations. Many older people in the community have said they are not prepared for a disaster, with the requirements of the older population in an emergency slightly different from the general population. Our goal was to have more older people prepared for an emergency situation.
In our community many older people are staying in their homes longer with reliance on carers, cleaners and meals on wheels. In an emergency these services may not be able to reach their clients, so it’s really important for them to be prepared and know their neighbours.
The booklet covers preparation (e.g. food, water, pet supplies), local hazards, important contacts and focuses on issues often faced by older people in a disaster. Reminders about storing enough medication/ health supplies, and alternate option for heating and cooking if you rely solely on electrical, as there is the potential for prolonged power cuts.
The booklet was kept small but covered essentials, text was kept large, spaced out with bullet points to make it easier to follow and the booklet was printed to make it accessible to all. The booklet was distributed to groups and venues older people frequent including health and community services. Ready for Living have received great feedback with older people starting to prepare emergency supplies.
Key facts
Main target group: Older people in general
Sector(s): Education, Information and communication, Social protection
Desired outcome for older people:
Learn, grow and make decisions
- Disasters and emergencies