Bermuda Diabetes Association

Do you have a Diabetes Disaster Plan for Hurricane Season?

With August and September being statistically the most active months of hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean, we are reminded every year to prepare our homes and properties for the upcoming storm season.

But how many people living with a chronic condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension prepare themselves to manage their medical condition in the event of a hurricane? Probably not many.

Approximately 13 per cent of Bermudians are currently living with diabetes living with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and the management of this disease requires daily medications and blood sugar testing, which makes this group particularly vulnerable when there is a disruption of routine.

The aftermath of a strong hurricane, such as Hurricane Fabian in 2003, include damage to homes and widespread power outages, which interferes with daily routines, leading to erratic eating patterns and disrupted medication schedules. These disruptions along with the stress induced by a serious storm can both dramatically affect blood sugar levels, and have a negative impact on the health of people living with diabetes.

Taking the time in advance to prepare for managing your diabetes is a wise step as once a serious storm threatens, it can be too late or it becomes less of a priority as last-minute preparations to your home are being carried out.

Here are some useful tips to better prepare yourself or any family members with diabetes for the upcoming hurricane season

Diabetes Hurricane Preparedness Kit:

Prepare and properly store a two-week supply of medications for your diabetes and all other medical conditions.
As well as medications your Diabetes Preparedness Kit should contain a working blood sugar meter with extra batteries, blood sugar diary, Test strips for your meter (check expiry date), cotton balls and tissues, lancet device and lancets for pricking your finger, urine ketone testing strips, glucose tablets or juice boxes, Glucagon emergency kit (if on insulin), and an empty hard plastic detergent bottle with cap to dispose used lancets, syringes or needle tips.
The Preparedness Kit should also contain a hard copy of all medications, active prescription information and eligible refills, and a list of all medical conditions, recent surgeries, and past and present complications.

Ideally, these items should be stored in an easily transportable carrier such as a small suitcase or knapsack on wheels which can be taken with you should you or a family member need to leave your home.

Most of the challenges faced after a hurricane in Bermuda are caused by the loss of electricity, which has implications for food, beverage and medication storage. It is important to remember that insulin should not be exposed to excessive heat, light or cold. Insulin may however be stored at room temperature for 28 days. Discard unrefridgerated insulin after 28 days. Insulin pens already in use may also be stored at room temperature according to manufacturer's directions. Regular, Novorapid, Humalog and Lantus insulin should remain clear. Insulin that clumps or sticks to sides of the bottle should not be used

Preparing an Emergency Food Supply:

Loss of electricity may often cause food or water to become contaminated. With food being critical part of diabetes management, it is worth considering preparing a separate box of non-perishable food supplies in advance also. Here are some appropriate food items recommended;

1 gallon of water per person per day for at least one week
1 large box unopened saltine crackers
1 jar peanut butter
1 small box powdered milk or 3 tins lite evaporated milk
1 pkg dry unsweetened cereal
6 cans regular soda
6 cans diet soda
6 cans lite/ water packed fruit
1 can tuna, or salmon per person
6 cans Healthy Choice tinned soup
4 packages glucose tablets or small hard candies for low blood sugars
Disposable cups
1 spoon/fork/knife per person
Hand operated can opener

Sensible tips to Follow to Prevent Illness During and After a Hurricane:

Wear diabetes identification at all times
Always take your insulin or pills on time or as close to it as possible. Never omit your insulin or medication unless your doctor has told you otherwise.
Try to maintain your regular meal plan to the best of your ability. Your plan should remain as balanced as possible, including a variety of proteins, peanut butter, dried beans, eggs, canned tuna etc, fruits, vegetables, milk, milk products, cereals and grains. Avoid the temptation to eat readily available high sugar, high fat foods such as cookies, chips, pastries and candy bars.
Increase food and water during periods of increased exertion and physical activity. Be aware that sugars may suddenly drop unless having snack between meals or having enough food to cover at mealtimes.
Check your feet daily for infection, open sores or blisters. Debris can increase your risk for injury. Heat excessive dampness and inability to change footwear can lead to infection especially if blood sugars are high. NEVER GO WITHOUT SHOES.
Be aware that stress can cause a rise in your blood sugar. Try to monitor your blood sugars as often as possible, and record in a diary.

For stocking up on all your medications and diabetes supplies during the hurricane season, visit the Diabetes Resource Centre located in Beacon House. Tel:297 8427. Our pharmacist is available daily from 10-2pm.