Emergencies: Are You Prepared?

Should a natural or man-made disaster occur, a diabetic needs to have an emergency supply kit ready to grab and go. Immediate disaster response is uncertain. A stockpile of diabetic supplies and other medications for 7-10 days is prudent. You may need to talk to your physician and obtain a special prescription for this emergency supply.

An emergency supply kit, depending on how you manage your diabetes, might include:

• Oral medications
• Insulin and insulin delivery supplies
• Lancets
• Extra meter batteries
• Quick acting, but non-perishable supplies of glucose
• Emergency contacts and telephone numbers, including physician, health provider, and health history information
• If your child has diabetes, identify in advance which school staff members will assist your child in an emergency
• Wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies your diabetic condition
• Other medications taken for other conditions.

McLaren Visiting Nurse & Hospice is pleased to diabetics with America's most trusted medical alert service - Lifeline.

Source: ADA