Before a Disaster
Plan a safe evacuation route and identify a safe shelter space. If you’re evacuating, take these items with you in waterproof containers:
- Uniformed Services ID card
- Medicare card
- Other health insurance card (“Other health insurance” is health insurance you have in addition to TRICARE, such as Medicare or an employer-sponsored health insurance. TRICARE supplements don’t qualify as OHI.)
- Driver’s license
- Social Security card
- Checkbook, credit card, cash
- Prescription containers (preferred) or a list of medications with names, doses, and frequencies
- Important phone numbers
- Any important medical or military information and documents
- Immunization records
- First aid kit
Special Needs
If you have special needs, including chronic medical conditions, vision, hearing, or mobility impairment:
- Talk to your doctors about emergency medical plans.
- Know the location of more than one facility if you need dialysis or other life-sustaining treatment.
- Wear medical alert tags or bracelets.
- Arrange to get disaster warnings.
- Arrange for help getting to a shelter.
Prepare to bring the following items with you:
- Your doctor’s contact information
- A list of your specific illnesses, allergies and medications, including dosages
- At least one week’s supply of medication. Get any prescription refills that are due before you leave, and consider any medications that may need refrigeration
- A list of your medical devices, including type and model number
- Any needed medical devices or equipment. These include glucose monitors/diabetic supplies, breathing aids (nebulizers, oxygen tanks, tubing), spare eyeglasses and contacts, wheelchairs, batteries, and walkers.
- Special foods or supplements
- Food for service animals
More Information
Visit the Are You Ready Guide for lists and plans to prepare for a disaster.