Making an emergency info plan for the home

Think of it as one findable page, not a project

An emergency info plan is mostly about information being in one place that other people know about. It does not need to cover every possible situation.

The CareKeeper Emergency Info Card tool is one way to start. It makes a small printable card with factual contacts and care-team information. It runs in your browser, and CareKeeper does not save or receive what you type.

For urgent situations, follow the instructions your care team has given you. This page is only about organizing information.

Choose where things live, then tell people

A plan only helps if helpers know where to look. Pick a predictable spot for the card and the care binder, and make sure everyone who helps knows where it is, including people who only stop by now and then.

Some families keep a copy of the card in the binder, one on the refrigerator or by the phone, and a photo on the phone of each main helper.

• A place to write where the card and binder are kept
• A place to write who has a key or door code, and who to ask if they are not reachable
• A place to write where the key documents are kept, such as ID, insurance cards, and medical records
• A place to write where an advance directive or POLST/DNR is kept, if there is one

Gather the contacts and documents

NIA describes identification, health and dental insurance, medical records, property insurance policies, and family or other emergency contact information as important documents to protect. It suggests keeping them in a fireproof and waterproof container, with a digital copy saved as well.

NIA also suggests learning how to store emergency contact information in a cell phone, in addition to paper copies, and keeping the phone charged. The Administration for Community Living offers a Medical Information Card that captures information responders and medical personnel may need.

If the person is in hospice, NIA notes that someone from the hospice team is usually available by phone around the clock. Some families ask the hospice which number to use and put it on the card.

• Main care team, pharmacy, and a backup family contact
• Where the current medication list is kept
• Insurance card details or where the cards are stored
• Names and numbers of the helpers who know the routine

If the person has to leave home quickly

NIA suggests keeping an emergency kit that is updated, stocked, and easy to reach, and some people keep a smaller packed bag as well. NIA's kit list includes medications, eyeglasses, hearing aids and spare batteries, a phone with chargers and a backup battery, a change of clothes, and essential health information and important documents.

NIA also mentions comfort items, such as a favorite blanket or snacks, for someone who may need extra help staying calm.

A simple extra step is to write a short list on the card of what goes in the bag, so a helper who has never packed it can follow it.

Power outages and equipment

If someone at home uses equipment that needs electricity, NIA suggests including it in the plan. Its examples are hospital beds, oxygen machines, and electric wheelchairs. NIA says to talk to a doctor or medical supply provider about backup equipment options.

The Administration for Community Living says people who rely on battery- or electrically-powered medical devices may be at greater risk during a crisis without a contingency plan. It also points to resources on power outages and emergency power planning.

A place to write the equipment supplier's phone number, and who to ask about backup options, can sit right on the card.

For weather, NIA suggests finding out which kinds of events are most likely where you live, and writing down the nearest shelter locations. It also suggests naming specific people you trust who would be willing to help, and a backup way to stay in touch if power or internet is out.

Questions you may want to ask

These are good to ask the care team, the equipment supplier, or the helpers themselves.

• What number should be on the card for after-hours questions?
• Is there a medical supply or equipment company we should list, and what do they suggest if power is out?
• Does our local government keep a list of people who use medical equipment at home?
• Who else has a key, and can they be reached on a weekend?
• Can someone take a photo of the card and keep it on their phone?