Be ready for emergencies
No one can prevent a disaster or emergency. But you can prepare for them. Learn how to make a plan that can help protect you, your family and your home.
No one can prevent a disaster or emergency. But you can prepare for them. Learn how to make a plan that can help protect you, your family and your home.
Just call Member Services at 1-855-242-0802 (TTY: 711). We’re here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Make and practice a disaster plan for you and your family. This can help keep everyone safe, aware and together. Your plan should include an emergency supply kit as well as details on:
Some family members may need special care during an emergency. Make sure you have a plan for everyone, including:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, you’ll want to update your plan. You'll need to make sure you include steps to keep your family safe from COVID-19, too. Just check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more info.
Learn how to make a disaster plan
In the event of a disaster, make sure you have an emergency supply kit ready when you need it. Prepare your kit to include at least three days’ worth of food, water, clothing, updated list of medications and supplies. And add any other items based on your family’s needs.
Need to make a checklist? You can see these examples for ideas:
General emergency preparedness and evacuation checklist (PDF)
Special medical needs evacuation checklist (PDF)
Ready.gov emergency supply list (PDF)
It’s never too early to talk to kids about a disaster plan. Letting them know what to expect will help them prepare and have less fear. Even better, they’ll learn how to keep themselves safe if you’re not with them when an emergency happens.
Your disaster plan should include your pets, too. The best way to prepare is to pack a pet “go bag.” Make sure it includes food, medications, documents and other items your pets may need. If you have to leave your home, don’t leave your pets behind. Be sure to take them with you.
Here are some other steps you can take to keep your pets safe:
You’ll want to seek shelter before a disaster happens. If you have to leave your home, make sure you know a safe place to go. The more options, the better.
You may find shelter by staying at a:
Preparing your home before a storm or a disaster can help you lower the chance of damage.
Take these steps to help protect your home:
Know how to keep you and your family safe and healthy during an emergency. A little preparation now can make a big difference later.
Questions about your medications? You can call your local pharmacy for more info. If a disaster or emergency affects your area, you may be able to get an early refill.
During an emergency, you may not be able to see your doctor in person. Through secure video on your computer, you can meet with a licensed doctor for treatment of common health conditions. Cold or flu? Great reasons to use telehealth. You can also get help with allergies, sinus problems and more.
Need help finding a provider or pharmacy during or after an emergency? You can call us at 1-855-232-3596 (TTY: 711).
Check these links for more info on preparing for emergencies.
Louisiana Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs
Tips for being storm ready (PDF)