Valencia, Spain was ripped with a horrific flood this week, comparable to the effects of a tsunami. At least 205 are known dead and the count will surely climb. In the US, we recently had Hurricane Milton, one of the deadliest storms to hit Florida on record. Recently there were also floods in Nepal and the Sudan, and a hurricane in Mexico and again, Florida.
It’s a reminder to be prepared for disaster scenarios. These disasters are promoted on the news frequently, and may point to climate change as storms seem to be more intense and severe. Whatever the cause, there are many things you can do as a bleeding disorder patient and family to be prepared for catastrophe.
First, know the geography and weather patterns wherever you live. California has many geographical faults that cause earthquakes; wildfires are particularly bad. The midwest states of Texas, Nebraska and Kansas are dubbed “tornado alley” for their frequent and sometimes devastating tornadoes. The northeast has “nor-easters” every ten years or so. And Florida, as we’ve seen recently, is hit with hurricanes that often originate off the coast or in the Caribbean Sea.
On the east coast, we know that September and October are hurricane season moths. Normally we are lashed with the tail end of a Caribbean-originated hurricane. We once had “The Perfect Storm,” a 1991 hurricane that struck on October 28, and became a massive killer. Damage was most severe in Massachusetts; the story became a movie of the same name, starring George Clooney. We ensure we are stocked with wood for a fire, shovels, spare food—even snowshoes!
Second, always ensure you have enough factor and ancillaries. When storms hit, you often are not able to travel, and face power outages. Your factor supplier may not be able to bring you factor, and you may not be able to contact them. Keep at least 10-20 doses in your fridge at all times, and plenty of ancillaries.
Third, keep candles and flashlights ready, with fresh batteries. Keep your cell phone charged, and have a power bank charged and ready if your phone runs low on power.
Finally, know your local emergency numbers, in case you need to be evacuated due to your medical condition. Callers have overwhelmed 911 services, so you may not be able to always reach help when you need it.
As soon as you hear that a storm is developing, even if it is in Florida and you are in Massachusetts, be prepared for a worst-case scenario. Keep updated with popular apps like RadarOmega, Radarscope, and the FEMA App. Ask your local bleeding disorder organization what they suggest for being prepared and for help during a natural disaster.
Don’t wait till disaster strikes! Don’t be caught unprepared.
