Disaster Preparedness Toolkit
Disasters can happen any time of the year — from hurricanes, floods, wildfires, snowstorms and more. For people living with lupus, preparing ahead is especially important. Whether it’s knowing how to get your medications, reaching your doctor, or finding a safe place to stay, having a plan in place can make a stressful situation more manageable.
We’re here to help you be ready no matter where you live across the United States. Below you’ll find free information, tools and resources to help you prepare for emergencies, protect your health, and stay connected to care.
NOTE: Always call 9-1-1 first if you or a loved one is experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Information on preparing for emergencies, building an emergency kit and tips for people with disabilities.
FEMA / Ready.gov
Guidance on planning ahead, staying safe and responding to the disasters most likely to affect your area.
American Red Cross
Steps for making a plan, preparing for evacuation and protecting people with chronic illnesses.
211
Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for help finding local housing, food, transportation and health services – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
HUD Disaster Recovery Resources
Assistance with housing and recovery after disasters.
Poison Control Hotline
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poisoning emergencies or questions or visit poison.org – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Rx Open
Search for open pharmacies in areas impacted by disasters.
Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP)
Provides free prescription drugs, vaccines, medical supplies, and equipment to uninsured people in federally declared disaster areas.
If you or someone you care for needs dialysis, visit the Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) website to find open dialysis centers and support during disasters.
Pets are part of many families and should be included in your emergency plan.
- County News Center offers tips to help keep your pets prepared for emergencies.
- 24Petconnect — Helps reunite lost pets with their families after disasters.
- Contact your local animal services for shelter and care options during evacuations.
Building Your Own Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
Building a lupus-specific toolkit now saves time and stress later. Having documentation medication lists and backup plans ready can be lifesaving during evacuations or prolonged service outages, for example. Your toolkit should be personalized to your needs and the types of disasters common in your area. Start with the basics:
Medical Essentials
- Current medication list, including dosages and prescriber contact information
- At least a 7-day supply of medication (if possible)
- First aid kit
- Copies of prescriptions and insurance cards
- Contact list for your health care providers and pharmacy
Important Documents
- Photo ID, insurance information, list of allergies and medical history summary
- Emergency contacts (names and phone numbers)
- Store both paper copies and digital backups (on a secure device or cloud storage)
Daily Living Supplies
- Water
- Non-perishable food and utensils
- Flashlights, extra batteries and a phone charger or power bank\
- Personal hygiene items
Lupus-Specific Needs
- Sun protection (broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats)
- Cooling packs
- Masks for respiratory protection during smoke or dust events
Other Considerations
- Mental health resources (contact information for your mental health provider, crisis hotlines)
- Pet supplies and records
- Local shelter information and evacuation routes
- Cash
Emergency Lupus Toolkits
A model for creating your own lupus-specific preparedness plan.
- Hurricane Disaster Plan From the LFA Southeast Region
- Wildfire Disaster Plan From the LFA SoCal Region
Remember: Update your kit regularly, especially before your area’s disaster season begins. Preparing now can reduce stress and help keep you healthy and safe during unexpected events.