July Community Spotlight: Helping residents prepare for emergencies

Am I my neighbor’s keeper?

Suppose you are among the group that calls one of 298 housing units in Lebanon County home. In that case, you are assured that you live independently in a safe, affordable place managed by a caring management team that prides itself on “having your back.”  Community Homes of Lebanon County is not a “Nursing Home” or an “assisted living home.” Still, we care enough about the well-being of our resident community to maintain a resident services staff that is available to advise them in various ways.

One example – we encourage all our residents to be prepared in an emergency. Our team is up to date on Disaster Preparedness education from the American Red Cross, and willingly share this advice with the residents and encourage them to take action and follow this knowledge with them. The Red Cross has created “The Three Steps to Preparedness” –

1. Get a Kit – Disaster can strike at any time. By planning ahead, you can avoid scrambling for critical supplies like food, water, and medicine. Be packed and ready with a kit containing a variety of items like medication lists, batteries, cell phone chargers, a whistle, a change of clothing, and much more (look up Disaster Preparedness for Seniors by Seniors).
2. Make a plan – Communicate with family members. Make planning a team effort. Keep family contact information in your wallet. Pack a “go bag” with essentials. Choose an out-of-town contact person. If the disaster is local, reaching a trusted out-of-town contact person may be easier. Map out escape routes in advance and agree on a meeting place. Get more tips from the Red Cross or online.
3. Be informed. What hazards could affect your area? Invest in self-education.

And learn the steps to “re-group” when the disaster is over.

When needed in times like this, we pride ourselves on being involved, getting our hands dirty, and helping as we can. It’s the way we do business at Community Homes.