Ensure Your Health and Medical Needs are on Your Preparedness Checklist
June 1 is quickly approaching, marking the start of the 2025 hurricane season. After the past few years, many of us have made storm preparations part of our annual routine. Still, I want to take this opportunity to remind you of some important steps to prepare, especially when it comes to your health and medical needs.
One of the most critical preparations is determining if you or a loved one will need access to a special care shelter. Please note that Lee Health hospitals and facilities are not hurricane shelters. If anyone in your household requires assistance beyond what is provided at a general population shelter, you must preregister with Lee County Emergency Management. For more information and the Special Needs application, visit www.leegov.com/hurricane, then click on “Advanced Planning” and “Special Needs.”
If you rely on medical equipment, write down key details—such as the size, manufacturer, and your account and company information. Make sure you stock up on batteries, especially if your equipment requires specialty types that may take time to order. Also take inventory of other medical supplies you may need, like catheters, dressings or items related to dietary restrictions, to ensure you have enough on hand.
Ahead of a storm, refill your prescription medications and stock any essential medical items, such as oxygen. Florida law allows pharmacies to refill prescriptions early when a hurricane warning is in effect. If you take refrigerated medications like insulin, prepare a plan to keep them cold in case of a power outage—having enough ice or a backup power solution is key. If you're unsure about the safety of a medication after a power loss, you can contact poison control for guidance.
If using a generator, follow all safety guidelines. Unfortunately, improper generator use is one of the leading causes of injury and death after a storm. Always operate generators outdoors and away from windows.
Lee Health created an Emergency Management Hub on our website (www.leehealth.org/emergency-preparedness) to help keep you informed so you can prepare in the event of any disaster, including hurricanes. This webpage includes information and checklists on what to do before, during and after a natural disaster or public health emergency.
Preparation is essential, even as we hope Southwest Florida will be spared this season.