As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, it’s important to make sure you and your family are prepared. At Wellness First, we care about your safety and want to ensure that all of our members in Palm Beach County are equipped to handle this storm. Preparing early can make all the difference, so here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay safe and healthy.
1. Stock Up on Essential Medications
Make sure you have enough of your prescription medications to last through the storm and its aftermath. This includes any supplements you’re currently taking for your wellness plan. We recommend keeping at least a 7-day supply on hand, and don’t forget over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers, antihistamines, and digestive aids.
2. Secure Adequate Water Supply
Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. This will cover drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene needs. If possible, store more to be extra safe. Don’t forget to store water for your pets as well!
3. Focus on Single-Ingredient, Whole Foods
Try to stock up on non-perishable, single-ingredient foods. These are healthier and have longer shelf lives than processed options. Think about things like canned beans, vegetables, tuna, quinoa, and nuts. Avoid highly processed snacks and meals which may be tempting, but could disrupt your blood sugar and energy levels when you need them most.
4. Get a Supply of Healthy Snacks
Dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and granola are excellent options that will keep you energized and nourished. Choose items without added sugars or artificial ingredients to stay in line with your healthy lifestyle.
5. Fill Your Gas Tank
If you haven’t already, make sure to fill up your car with gas well before the storm hits. If there are evacuations or if you need to travel, you won’t want to risk running out of fuel or finding stations that are out of gas.
6. Prepare Your First Aid Kit
Check that your first aid kit is fully stocked. You’ll want essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, and any necessary medical equipment. Don’t forget to include extras of any functional wellness tools you rely on, such as essential oils or herbal remedies.
7. Keep Your Electronics Charged
Make sure all phones, tablets, and other devices are fully charged ahead of the storm. Portable power banks are also a great investment for emergencies. Staying connected will allow you to monitor updates and stay in contact with loved ones.
8. Gather Flashlights and Batteries
Power outages are common during hurricanes, so ensure that you have flashlights, candles, and extra batteries on hand. Battery-powered lanterns can provide safer, longer-lasting light than traditional candles.
9. Prepare for Pets
Make sure you have enough food, water, and any necessary medications for your pets. Don’t forget to prepare a safe space for them to stay during the storm.
10. Make an Evacuation Plan
If you’re in an area where evacuation is necessary, be sure to have a plan. Know your evacuation route, and have an emergency kit ready to go with important documents, medications, clothing, and non-perishable food.
11. Secure Your Home
If you haven’t already, check your storm shutters or board up windows. Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items that could become hazardous in high winds. Make sure all doors and windows are tightly closed and locked.
12. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Storms can be stressful, so it’s important to prioritize your mental health. Consider practicing mindfulness, meditation, or other stress-relief techniques to stay calm during this time. If you’re on any anxiety or sleep-support supplements, ensure you have enough to help manage the additional stress.
Emergency Protocols
While we are your dedicated concierge practice and will do our best to stay available for you during this time, please note that in case of a true emergency, if you are unable to reach the on-call physician due to power outages or communication delays, do not wait for a response. Please call 911 immediately if you are experiencing a medical emergency. It is crucial to prioritize your safety and seek immediate help in case of urgent health concerns during the storm.
Final Thoughts
At Wellness First, we believe in being proactive with your health and safety. As Hurricane Milton approaches, use this time to take steps that will ensure your well-being. You are not alone in this—our Wellness First team is here to support you. Should you have any concerns about your medications, health, or overall wellness plan during this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s get through this together!
Warm regards,
The Wellness First Team
Serving the communities of Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Wellington, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and Boca Raton.