Article by Liza Sabine, Preparedness Coordinator at Fairfax County Health Department
(Posted 2024 March)
Preparing for emergencies looks different if you live with or care for someone with lung disease. Here are five key steps you can take to prevent worsening of symptoms, and prepare to manage lung disease during an emergency:
1. Be aware of environmental triggers in your region, such as extreme heat, pollen, and poor air quality. Take appropriate measures to protect your breathing:
- Avoid breathing smoke, fumes, high winds, mold, and cleaning products.
- If outside during these events, wear an N95 respirator mask that covers your nose and mouth.
- Limit outdoor physical activity and avoid over-exertion.
- Stock up on replacement HVAC filters and change them more frequently during periods of decreased air quality.
2. Fill out a COPD or Asthma Action Plan to track symptoms and recommended actions to help manage your condition.
- Templates are available on the American Lung Association’s website (lung.org).
- Keep an eye on your symptoms and know when to seek medical attention. The first symptoms can appear as late as 24-48 hours after exposure.
3. Know how to check air quality:
- Stay aware of the air quality where you live and where you may travel. Check the local news and weather reports for information. Check the Air Quality Index available at airnow.gov to see about current forecasts for unhealthy air.
- If you can remain in your home, use air purifiers, and keep doors and windows closed.
4. Put together an emergency kit to ensure you have all the medication and instructions you need in one easily accessible place when you leave home. Consider including:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications, a 30-day supply if possible
- Applicable medicine delivery devices (nebulizer, spacer, portable oxygen, mobility devices, etc.)
- Insurance card and an extra written prescription in case medication is lost or destroyed
- Contact information for your medical providers, oxygen/medical equipment providers, pharmacy, home health agency, utility companies, and support network
- A peak flow meter, if prescribed by your healthcare provider
- List of all medications you take, including names and dosages
- List of allergies
- N95 respirator masks
- A copy of your COPD Action Plan
5. Have a plan for power outages:
- Alert your power company and fire department about any medical equipment you have that needs power, such as oxygen concentrator, nebulizer, ventilator, CPAP, or BiPAP.
- If you receive oxygen therapy, make sure you have a backup tank and backup power source. Check the instructions or manufacturer to make sure the backup power source will work for your device. Ask your provider how to make sure you have enough equipment and supplies during and after a disaster or emergency. Do not reduce your oxygen flow rate to extend the life of your battery or oxygen supply without talking to your healthcare provider.
- Many newer nebulizer models can be battery powered or used with a car adaptor. Additionally, consider asking your healthcare provider if a similar medication can be used when your nebulizer does not work.
Additional Resources
- American Lung Association: lung.org/clean-air/emergencies-and-natural-disasters
- Air Quality Index: airnow.gov
- Lung HelpLine: 1-800-LUNG USA (1-800-586-4872 and press 2)
- COPD Disaster Preparedness Plan: bit.ly/ggCOPDdisasterplan
- My COPD Action Plan: bit.ly/ggCOPDPlan
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).