This Sunday morning, March 10, at 2:00 am, daylight savings time begins. Don't forget to move your clocks forward an hour so that you're not late to events and work!
Most people know that the daylight savings time clock change period (occurs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall), is a great reminder for checking and replacing smoke alarm batteries. Did you know that it's also a great opportunity to check and re-stock your preparedness kits and emergency stockpile? The American Public Health Association's Get Ready campaign has a great list of resources for starting and maintaining a preparedness kit/emergency stockpile.
For individuals with chronic health conditions like arthritis, heart disease, asthma, and diabetes, taking the time to be prepared before an emergency is vital! Ensuring you have enough of your medications on hand, water, and diet friendly foods can make all the difference when you suffer a temporary setback. Having a preparedness kit in your car can also be helpful. Think about the things you normally do, and then consider what might need to change when specific events occur (such as the power going out, unsafe water/boil orders, tornado warnings). Maintaining an electronic list of medications you take, or giving a friend or family member an up-to-date copy can be helpful if you need to leave your home for an extended period of time. For more things to consider, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Personal Preparedness resources for older adults and their caregivers. The tools are useful to younger adults also! The Federal Emergency Mangement Agency (FEMA), also has an "Are You Ready?" guide for your personal use.
Check out some of the stockpile resources here and don't forget on Sunday to set your clocks and check your stocks!