Emergency Preparedness For Your Unique Medical Needs

What's the first thing you do when the power goes out? You might grab a candle or flashlight, call a neighbor to make sure they're okay or snuggle with your cat to keep warm. But if you rely on a life support device that uses electricity, your first move should be to make sure you have extra batteries and a backup plan.

If you use an electricity-powered medical device, here are some community resources and tips to make sure your emergency preparedness kit and household emergency plan meet your unique needs.

Resources + Tips

Puget Sound Energy (PSE)

• Sign up for Life Support Status on your PSE account
  • All customers who use life support equipment can complete the Life Support Request Form with their medical provider. When approved, a seal is placed on their electric meter, alerting technicians that critical medical equipment is in use in the residence. Community members in this program will also receive advanced notice in the event of a Public Safety Power Shutoff.
• Apply to the PSE Free Portable Battery Grant Program
  • PSE maintains a program where customers may apply to receive free portable batteries to help power their critical medical devices during a power outage. For more information and to learn if you or a loved one qualify for the program, call (206) 209-2782 or email portablebatteries@pse.com.

Other tips for managing medical needs without power:

• Keep several backup power sources charged and accessible at all times. Most small devices like portable oxygen concentrators and CPAP machines can run on battery packs and power banks.
• If you use supplemental oxygen, discuss your needs with your healthcare provider and supply company and look into keeping stand-alone oxygen tanks on hand that don't require electricity.
• Have a plan for how to keep medications at their required temperature.
• Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on you when the power goes out. In case your phone stops working, it's important for someone to know you're okay or need assistance.
• For more information on emergency power planning for breathing machines, power wheelchairs, home dialysis equipment and more, review this checklist from the ADA National Network.

Power outages can be dark, cold, scary and dangerous. But you can take a few important steps to keep them from becoming lift-threatening. By adding your unique needs to your preparedness plans, you'll stay healthy, safe and warm all winter long. Spring is coming, we promise!