Disaster-Specific Medical Planning

Power outages are the most common disaster type and the one with the most direct medical impact. Three specific concerns: power-dependent medical equipment, refrigerated medications, and restricted access to pharmacies and facilities.

• Document the power requirement for every medical device. Size backup power to match.
• Consult your pharmacist about the specific safe temperature range and storage duration for any refrigerated medications you use.
• Identify backup pharmacy options and telehealth access before an outage.

Extreme heat events create medical concerns for several groups. People with chronic conditions, older adults, and those taking certain medications may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

• Ask your physician and pharmacist whether any of your medications affect heat tolerance or increase heat-related risk.
• Know the location of cooling centers in your area. Your local health department publishes these during heat events.
• Check refrigerated medication storage requirements. Some medications degrade faster when ambient temperatures rise even if not directly in the heat.

Flood water is contaminated. This has direct implications for medications and medical supplies.

• Medications that have been in contact with flood water should be considered unsafe and replaced. FDA guidance on this is clear.^[1]
• Store a short-term medication supply in a waterproof container or bag as part of flood preparation.
• Keep a sealed copy of your medication list accessible so you can accurately request replacements at an emergency pharmacy.

Wildfire smoke creates air quality conditions that directly affect people with respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD, emphysema) and cardiovascular conditions.

• People with respiratory conditions should discuss a written action plan for poor air quality with their pulmonologist or primary care physician before wildfire season.
• Know your medication supply status. Poor air quality events can extend without warning and may restrict pharmacy access.
• N95 or KN95 respirators reduce smoke inhalation for brief outdoor exposure. They do not substitute for staying indoors during high AQI events.