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Dec 3, 2022 | General

By Quinshay Hall, Goldman Sachs 10K Fellow, Intern at The Option Group

Seasons come and go; we wake in the morning and prepare for nature’s wonder and beauty.

There is a pattern we have come to expect and weather the storms that come with each day.  The same can be said of holidays. No matter your tradition, you probably prepare in advance to curtail the anxiety that may tag along with your gathering.

Let’s take this idea of “preparation” one step further.  With the holiday and winter season fast approaching, this is a good time to prepare for a disaster or emergency.  Knowing you planned in advance for just such events may help reduce fear, anxiety, and losses. We suggest you use the following list of supplies as a guide to craft your own Do-It-Yourself  (DIY) kit.

With these items safely tucked away, you and your family will have an advantage should an emergency or disaster strike. 

  • Water (enough for at least three days)
  • Food (ready-to-eat canned food, granola bars, dried fruit, peanut butter)
  • Flashlight (with extra batteries)
  • All Essential Medications and Prescriptions
  • Medical Equipment for conditions (extra pair of eyeglasses, extra batteries for hearing aid, etc.)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Personal Care Supplies
  • Emergency Contact Information
  • Copies of important documents (Photo ID, Medical insurance cards, Medication Lists, Insurance Policies)
  • Records of Personal Property and Insurance Policies
  • Masks
  • Change of Clothing/Jacket/Gloves/Hat
  • Blanket(s)
  • Radio (Battery/Hand cranked)
  • Extra batteries (of all types)
  • Cash

Once your kit is assembled, store it in a safe, dry place – perhaps in a labeled plastic container.  While you are at it, think about assembling a second kit – it makes a nice holiday gift for the family, friend, or neighbor!

This time each year, be sure to replace expired items and reevaluate your needs. Doing so can provide peace of mind for all involved.  It’s always great to be prepared, whether for the season, holiday, or emergency. Don’t delay making your preparations today.

If you or someone you care about needs additional support to help cope, The Option Group is here to help. Please contact our professional care management team for assistance.

About The Option Group: Founded in 2010, The Option Group’s compassionate team of experienced Certified Life Care Managers serves families, their loved ones, medical professionals, and professional family advisors in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The firm understands the challenges of caring for an individual who needs assistance due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Their skilled providers possess over 100 years of combined experience navigating the healthcare maze and accessing hundreds of quality resources. The Option Group helps families spend quality time with their loved ones, providing clear choices that lead to better care. For more information, visit www.theoptiongroup.net or call 410-667-0266 (MD) or 717-287-9900 / 610-885-8899/ 215-896-6756 (PA) / or 302-858-6449 (DE).