As hurricane season approaches, Lee Health's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Iahn Gonsenhauser stresses the importance of including medications and medical supplies in your hurricane kit.
"Being prepared for emergencies of really any nature is so important, particularly if you have additional medical needs," Dr. Gonsenhauser said.'
"Things like insulin and blood thinners are of particular importance that you have already supply of that. Blood pressure medications. Antibiotic or immuno suppressant medication's that you may have," he said.
If your medicine needs to stay cold, Dr. Gonsenhauser recommends keeping them in a known spot in your refrigerator, ready to transfer to a cooler in your emergency kit.
"Having those medications in your refrigerator in a known spot ready to go that you can put them in a cooler in your bug out bag or emergency kit that's what you want to do. Keep them refrigerated as long as you can," he said.
He also suggests having a printed list of your medical records.
"Having a backup hard copy of all of the various diagnosis and emergency medical needs and medication's that you may require are just a fantastic thing to have in your kit," he said.
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Additionally, Dr. Gonsenhauser reminds people not to forget items like epinephrine pens for allergies, aspirin, feminine hygiene products, and basic first aid supplies.
"Triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin or a generic brand is great for miter cuts, scrapes, and can keep you from developing a superficial infection," he said.
"Any sort of anti-septic solution like iodine for bigger potential wounds," he added.
For more resources, visit leehealth.org/emergency-preparedness .