If you are a diabetic living in Florida, it is important to be PREPARED!
Make sure you create an emergency kit that you can use in your own home or take with you if you must evacuate. It is important for your family members/friends to know where you store this kit as a storm approaches. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to obtain supplies or medications as they may not be readily available!!!
This kit should be waterproof.
Important items to place in this kit:
- A first aid kit (Band-Aids, cotton balls, alcohol swabs, OTC antibiotic cream like Neosporin)
- A list of ALL your prescription and over the counter medications and their dosages
- A list of allergies/doctors’ names and phone numbers/emergency contacts
- A logbook and pens to track your glucose readings accurately
- Shelf stable carbohydrates to treat low blood sugar (glucose tabs or gels/ juice boxes/glucagon)
- 30 days’ worth of oral medications, insulin, and insulin-related supplies
- 30 days’ worth of glucose testing supplies and don’t forget extra batteries for the glucometer
- Hand sanitizer/sanitizer wipes
You should wear identification stating that you are a diabetic at all times
You should have a sharps container or if unable to get one, a hard plastic container with a lid (like an empty laundry detergent container) to properly dispose of your needles and lancets
The number 1 question I am asked is… How long is my insulin good for if we lose power???
Most insulin vials are stable at room temperature (59-86 degrees F) for up to 28 days. At the end of 28 days, they should be discarded. You can safely use frozen gel packs to keep insulin cool but NEVER use dry ice because it can freeze the insulin. Do not use any insulin that has been frozen.
Insulin pens and other non-insulin injectable medications vary as to how long they can stay at room temperature based on the manufacturers’ recommendations. Lantus and Novolog pens can remain at room temperature for 28 days but Tresiba pens can remain at room temperature for 8 weeks. Make sure to know the storage requirements for your specific type of injectable medication.
If you have any questions, contact our office to speak with your medical provider to make sure you are PREPARED!!!