Emergencies strike when they are least expected but that doesn’t mean we should not anticipate it. It is always best to come prepared for the worst battle of all especially we, seniors, are usually less agile than our younger housemates plus, at times like these, we should be able to carry ourselves out of the danger zone independently.

I don’t care if they call me paranoid or something, at least I know what to do if the unfortunately time hits home. So here are some few basic safety tips for seniors in getting ready for emergencies. Just keep these things in mind and you will be fine.

YOUR HOUSE

1. Do you still remember the time when you need to childproof your house for the baby? Well, this one is pretty much the same. Seniors need to keep the house clutter-free at all times to avoid falling or tripping if you need to make a mad dash out of the door. This should be easy since your kids no longer live in your house but can get rough if your grandchild is. Sturdy study or dining table is great for earthquakes so might as well clear up the way beneath it in case you need to crawl under.
2. Make a list of all the numbers of your doctor and health care providers then post it somewhere close to the telephone. While you’re at it, include numbers of the police, fire station, your close relatives and just about anyone you might want to contact in case of emergency.
3. Install security lights in each room of your house in case of power outage.
4. Keep extra batteries for flashlights and other stuff requiring batteries. Replace them if needed.
5. Ask your trusted repairman to do a maintenance check on your house regularly and have him fix all those problems at once to avoid inconveniences.

YOUR THINGS

1. Keep all your medications in one place together with your prescriptions and doctor’s orders which should be kept in one folder or envelope for easy access. An extra pair of eyeglasses nearby is also a must.
2. If you use walking aids, it will be wise to buy an extra one and store it a room farthest from the main door.
3. Buy a whistle and carry it inside your pocket
4. Put together a mini-emergency kit and place it at your bedside.
5. Install key hangers and put all your keys in there. This way, you will not waste time looking for them when you need to go out.

WHEN GOING OUT:

1. Make a list of all the important things like your contact person if in case of emergency, your blood type, your allergies, names and numbers of your doctors and medications. Make sure this list stays at your pocket at all times.
2. Don’t leave your whistle at home. Make sure it’s inside your pocket to signal for help, if needed.
3. Always inform someone when going out and where you’re heading to. If possible, give them an estimated time of your trip out and ask them to check out on you once in a while.
4. If you doubt your own balance but you need to go out, then invite a friend to come with you. While you’re out with your friends, have a great time!
5. Stay on busy streets and never walk alone in dark corners and alleys. Better yet, plan your trips during daytime when the crowd is much friendlier than night owls.