Seniors and emergencies

Prepare now, learn how…

An emergency situation or an evacuation can be a frightening and confusing time. It is important to be educated about the steps you can take to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

Senior citizens being evacuated during emergencies should take with them any other equipment or devices they may need immediately. As a senior, basic items you should keep in an easy-to-reach place may include:

• assistive devices such as such as canes, walkers, hearing aids, breathing apparatus, etc.
• prescription eyewear and footwear
• extra medications and vitamin supplements
• copies of prescriptions
• extra dentures (if required) and cleaner
• personal papers, identification; and
• list of names and telephone numbers (such as family members, doctor, case worker, seniors group contact person, etc.).

Seniors in high-rise buildings
High-rise buildings present different challenges in an emergency. Residents should make themselves aware of:

• All escape routes and location of emergency doors/exits on each floor
• Location of emergency buttons
• The building’s evacuation plan
• The building superintendent’s phone number
• Who sits on the Building Safety Committee
• Who are the floor monitors in the event of an emergency
• The names and phone numbers of onsite doctors and social workers

For more information, visit www.emergencymanagementontario.ca.