Positive Ageing - Prepare For A Major Earthquake

We have seen from the experience in Christchurch just how traumatic a major earthquake can be. It has also underlined the importance of being as well-prepared as possible.

In a big shake:

• If you are in a bed or out of a wheelchair, don’t try and move too far but cover your head
• If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it and go into a doorway. Put the brakes on and cover your head and neck with your hands
• Be prepared for aftershocks
• Listen to your transistor radio for any civil defence instructions.

 

Have some kind of personal support network with family or neighbours so that someone will check on you as soon as possible. Make sure your friend or family member:

• Has a spare key
• Knows where your emergency supplies are kept
• Is aware of your medication, special equipment or other life support needs.

 

Your emergency kit may need to include:

• Extra pair of glasses, hearing aid, batteries, mobility aids etc (in case yours are damaged)
• Extra blankets for warmth
• A list of who to contact in an emergency, including cellphone numbers and addresses (remember to put a date on the list)
• A list of your medications, allergies, special equipment, doctor's contact details
• If you have difficulty with communication, your kit might include written instructions about any special needs.

 

Dehydration is a health risk for older people so water is a vital part of your emergency kit:

• Keep a minimum of 12 litres of stored water - four litres per day for a three-day period. Store water in sealed unbreakable containers that are easy to handle (e.g. two-litre easy opening bottles)
• Replace stored water with fresh water every six months.

 

If mobility is an issue:

• Keep important equipment in a convenient place so you can find it quickly and easily
• Decide whether you should have extra mobility aids (e.g. canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchair) as a back-up.

 

Thinking ahead:

• If you have a care-giver, make sure you, or your family, know what arrangements they have in place for an emergency
• Have a plan to try and contact one friend or relative out of the district so that others know how they can check on you
• Establish where you would go to be reunited with family or friends after a major quake.