Everyone needs to be prepared for natural disasters and other unexpected emergencies ─ but that’s especially true for anyone impacted by type 1 diabetes (T1D). If you or anyone in your family has T1D, it is important that you are well prepared in case there is an unforeseen event.

The Latest Resources & Information

• Stay Updated: Visit Diabetes Disaster Response and DDRC’s Facebook page with information on how to access medical support, storm status, shelters, and open pharmacies during time of disaster.
• Need Help: Call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383) If you need help navigating diabetes care during the storm, please call us. Representatives are regularly updated with information on how to access medical support, storm status, shelters, pharmacies and more for anyone affected by the storm. Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET.

Get Started

Below is a quick checklist to get you started. Download the Diabetes Preparedness Plan for more details and resources.

• Documentation. Write down the type of diabetes you have, other medical conditions, allergies and previous surgeries. Include current medications, doses and time you take them along with your pharmacy name, address and phone number.
• Prescriptions. Ask for an extra supply of all medications, including insulin and glucagon, if prescribed. Once a governor declares a state of emergency, you are eligible for an emergency override. Call your pharmacy for details. Warning: Insurance may not pay for the increased amounts.
• Insulin. If you lose power and you have unused insulin, don’t throw it out! In an emergency, it is okay to use expired or non-refrigerated insulin.
• Shelters. A live map of open shelters from the American Red Cross can be found here. You can also contact the American Red Cross directly at 1-800-RED-CROSS. If you find yourself in a shelter without proper diabetes care and supplies, call 1-800-DIABETES.
• Safely Storing Insulin. For the people with diabetes who use insulin it is important to store insulin as directed so that it remains usable by those who need it.
• Safely Discarding Sharps. Outside the home, make sure you have something to store your needles, syringes, lancets, and other sharps for safekeeping.
• Non-perishables e.g., juice boxes, peanut butter, canned foods, crackers, shelf-stable milk.

What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Natural disasters can result in long-term power outages, which make food and insulin storage a challenge. And once battery power runs down, communication with the outside world may be cut off. Here are some things to consider:

• A universal battery-operated charger can recharge your CGM as well as phones and other devices.
• Insulin pouches that cool when immersed in water can help keep your insulin intact in hot weather.
• Make sure you are always prepared for the possibility that your diabetes device like a pump or CGM could fail. Having an extra blood glucose meter is important, as are multiple daily injections (MDI) supplies in case of insulin pump failure.

Emergencies Often Equal to Stress

Stress and blood sugar fluctuations that can come with it are often to be expected in an emergency situation. Try to stay on top of your blood glucose testing and management, but don’t get down on yourself if your numbers are not ideal. The storm (both actually and metaphorically) will pass; right now you just have to stay healthy, safe and confident that you are prepared!

Above All, Stay Safe

Remember, even when life is in a crisis mode, diabetes care does not have to be. Stay safe, be prepared! We’re here for you.

Call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383) if you need help navigating diabetes care during the storm.