Emergency Preparedness with ALS New Mexico

When an emergency strikes, it’s important to have a plan to help you act quickly, especially for those living with ALS. Having an emergency plan as someone living with ALS is especially vital. When an unexpected emergency happens, being prepared helps to mitigate stress and helps you be ready for anything. With New Mexico’s unpredictable weather and dry climate, now is the best time to start planning for emergency preparedness—ALS New Mexico can help.

Emergency Preparedness for Individuals Living with ALS in New Mexico

What does emergency preparedness look like for individuals living with ALS? We provide a guideline and recommendations to help you better prepare for emergency situations.

Contacting Local Emergency Services

Reaching Out to First Responders: If you live with someone who has ALS, be sure to reach out to the local fire department and other emergency service providers to inform them that someone with ALS lives at home with you.
Provide Detailed Medical Needs: You can provide important information about specific medical conditions or requirements to local first responders. Examples of medical needs you might report include a tracheostomy, ventilator dependency, feeding tube, and mobility assistance.
Request “Disability Notice”: Another factor you can request is for a “disability notice” to be added to 911 operator dispatch systems. This way, in the event of an emergency, your address will appear with the notice and provide additional information for better awareness and assistance.

Preparing for New Mexico Power Outages

Backup Power Source for Emergencies: New Mexico often has thunderstorms in the spring and summer that can result in a potential power outage. In the event of a power outage, it’s important to have a backup power source for medical equipment like a ventilator or cough assist device.
Stocking Backup Batteries: In addition to having a backup power source, it’s important to also stock up on backup batteries. This way you may use them in a power outage and continue the operation of important equipment.
Safe Relocation Plan: Another great way to be prepared for a power outage is to have a plan for relocation in case the power outage is expected to continue for long periods of time. A safe relocation plan will help you relocate to somewhere with backup power to ensure the operation of electrical equipment for individuals living with ALS.

Notify Electrical Companies: Notifying your local electrical service provider about vital medical equipment is important. You can contact PNM for New Mexico electric services to register your household.
Gathering Necessary Documentation: When registering your household for important medical devices, it helps to gather documentation to submit for priority assistance during power outages. Be sure to register in advance for urgent support.

Learn More About Emergency Shelter Options in New Mexico

Prepare a Plan for Emergency Shelter: While an event that causes evacuation may be unlikely, it’s still important to plan ahead for a potential emergency situation that displaces you and any individuals living with ALS at home. Having an evacuation plan and researching potential emergency public shelters in New Mexico is a great first step.
Prepping Food for Dietary Needs: Something to consider is any special dietary foods that may need to be prepped in advance in the event of an emergency. While shelters provide food, many don’t have specialized foods for dietary needs. Take this into consideration when planning for emergency shelter.
Learn More About Medical Equipment Handling: Another consideration to make is if a shelter has electrical services or staffing to assist with specialty medical equipment. Not all places will have availability or accommodations, so be sure to check beforehand.

Emergency Management Resources

ALS New Mexico Can Help with Emergency Preparedness Plans

Having an emergency preparedness plan is vital for individuals living with ALS in New Mexico. If you have questions or require assistance in preparing an emergency plan for you and your family, reach out to ALS New Mexico. Our team can assist you in figuring out an emergency preparedness plan. Have an emergency preparedness plan ready for any emergency event, and have you and your loved ones ready for anything.