Part 2 of this series can be found here.
Everyone should have an emergency / disaster plan. However, most don’t include hearing loss or their hearing aids. Between blizzards, wildfires, terrorist attacks, earthquakes there is no place in the country safe from potentially devastating natural disasters.
Different disasters have different plans. Earthquakes, you might want to Velcro your hearing aids overnight case to the bedside table so you know where they are after a strong earthquake. That way they stay put, don’t get lost during the earthquake and you have them at your fingertips when you need them. Your emergency kit should be packed carefully, placed in a location that is quickly and easily accessible. It’s vital you have everything you need to make sure your hearing aids continue to function in an emergency so you can hear instructions.
Individual with hearing loss emergency kit should have: Extra hearing aid batteries (at least a 4-week supply), waterproof container for hearing aids, dry-kit, phone number of you haring healthcare professional, batteries or chargers for any additional assistive listening devices you might need, pen and paper. Along with all other supplies Red Cross recommends.
If you use a hearing service dog, make sure your kit contains necessary equipment, a supply of food and a copy of his service animal ID. Emergency shelters do not allow pets unless they are identified as service animals, so having a copy of the ID is crucial. A leash and collar to ensure he doesn’t accidentally become separated from you in the confusion.
For more information and a FREE hearing test call 907-644-6004 or find us on Facebook.