Hurricane Preparedness for Louisiana Families: Your Health and Safety Guide

Living in Louisiana means preparing for hurricane season is part of taking care of your family. Every year, storms threaten our communities, but with the right preparation, you can keep your loved ones safe and healthy before, during, and after a hurricane. Here's your step-by-step guide to getting ready:

1. Stay Connected and Informed

  • Sign up for local emergency alerts on your phone (they're free!)

  • Follow your parish's emergency management social media pages

  • Download the FEMA app for real-time updates

  • Keep important healthcare contact information easily accessible

2. Create Your Family Emergency Plan

  • Choose a meeting place if your family gets separated

  • Make sure everyone knows important phone numbers by heart

  • Plan for family members with special medical needs

  • Identify friends or family outside Louisiana who can be your emergency contact

  • Talk to your healthcare provider ahead of hurricane season to discuss your family's medical emergency plan

3. Build Your Emergency Kit on Any Budget Essential Supplies:

  • Water: 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days

  • Non-perishable food for 3+ days (canned goods, peanut butter, crackers)

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • First aid kit

  • 7-day supply of all prescription medications (contact your doctor or pharmacy early to get refills)

  • Copies of important documents in waterproof container

  • For more information read our Essential Items for Your Hurricane Supply Kit & Generator Safety article

Money-saving tips:

  • Buy a few extra canned goods each grocery trip

  • Check dollar stores for batteries and basic supplies

  • Ask family and friends to contribute specific items

  • Use community resources - many churches and community centers distribute emergency supplies

4. Prepare Your Health Information

  • Keep a current list of all medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors

  • Store medical information and insurance cards in waterproof bags

  • Make sure your healthcare providers have your current contact information and know about any changes in your health status

  • Take photos of important medical documents with your phone

  • If you use medical equipment, know your backup power options

5. Get Your Home Hurricane-Ready

  • Clear your yard of anything that could become flying debris

  • Know how to turn off utilities if needed

  • Fill bathtubs with water for emergency use

  • Charge all electronic devices

  • If you can afford it, consider plywood for windows or check if neighbors can share materials

6. Plan Your Evacuation Route

  • Know your evacuation zone (check your parish's website)

  • Plan multiple routes out of your area

  • Keep your car's gas tank at least half full during hurricane season

  • If you don't have reliable transportation, register with your parish for evacuation assistance

  • Find out where pet-friendly shelters are located

7. During the Storm: Stay Safe and Connected

  • Stay indoors and away from windows

  • Listen to battery-powered radio for updates

  • Telehealth services may still be available - call your healthcare provider if you have urgent medical questions

  • Conserve phone battery for emergencies

  • Stay off the roads unless evacuating

8. After the Hurricane: Recovery and Health

  • Wait for official "all clear" before going outside

  • Watch for hazards like downed power lines, contaminated floodwater, and unstable structures

  • Contact your healthcare providers as soon as possible to resume regular care and address any health concerns

  • Be aware that stress, changes in routine, and limited access to medications can affect chronic conditions

  • Consider telehealth options if you can't get to in-person medical care

Special Considerations for Medicaid Families:

  • Emergency Medicaid coverage may be available for storm-related injuries

  • SNAP benefits may be replaced if food is lost due to power outages

  • Temporary housing assistance may be available through FEMA

  • Many pharmacies participate in emergency prescription programs during disasters

Your Healthcare During Emergencies:

  • Telehealth platforms can help you access care when transportation is difficult

  • Many providers can coordinate with local pharmacies for emergency medication refills

  • Don't hesitate to reach out to your care team - they understand the unique challenges Louisiana families face during hurricane season

  • Work with your healthcare provider to create a personalized medical emergency plan

Remember: Preparation is your best protection. Start planning now, before hurricane season begins. Having a plan gives you peace of mind and helps keep your family safe when storms threaten our communities.