Natural disasters like floods, storms, and fires can pose serious challenges for everyone, but for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or those who rely on oxygen therapy, the stakes are even higher. Disaster Preparedness is critical to ensure safety, maintain access to necessary medical equipment, and reduce health risks during emergencies. This guide provides essential tips for disaster preparedness for those using a portable oxygen concentrator or managing COPD or other respiratory illness.

How New Safety Protocols Affect Respiratory Patients

Hurricane and fire season seems to start earlier and last longer every year. The recent devastating fires raging in California have reinforced the need for emergency preparedness.

 Because many of the largest fires in recent years have started from high winds and downed power lines, many energy companies have enacted new safety protocols and started proactively shutting down power in sectors where high winds or other dangers are present. Of course, this presents a problem for those on oxygen concentrators or other life saving devices. Be sure to work with your power company to take advantage of safety programs and maybe even save yourself some money on your energy bills along the way.

Programs that May be Available from Your Power Company for those on Medical Devices

• Advanced notice via text or phone call for power shut-off
• Priority for getting power back on
• Immunity from surge pricing
• Rebates for generators
• Grants and stipends for alternative energy sources such as solar panels and battery storage

CLICK HERE to get your FREE Disaster Preparedness Handbook. It Includes:

• Evacuation and preparation checklist
• Links to many power companies’ medical necessity forms or info pages
• Helpful hints on how to stay safe in the aftermath of storms and fires
• Ideas on who to contact if your power company doesn’t have any emergency measures in place

Why Disaster Preparedness Matters for COPD Patients

COPD affects your lungs and respiratory system, making it harder to breathe under normal conditions. During a disaster, increased stress, exposure to pollutants, or lack of access to medical supplies can worsen symptoms.

Being prepared ensures you can maintain your oxygen therapy and minimize the risk of exacerbations. Here’s how to prepare for different types of disasters.

General Disaster Preparedness Tips for Oxygen Users or those with COPD

1. Create an Emergency Kit Assemble a well-stocked emergency kit specifically tailored to your needs. Include:
   • Medications (at least a two-week supply) and prescriptions.
   • Portable oxygen concentrator (POC) with extra batteries and chargers. Your D/C powercord is especially important since evacuation routes often have a huge backup. Keep your concentrator batteries charged. It will help them maintain their charge capacity and may save your life in an emergency.
   • Non-perishable snacks and water.
   • A first aid kit.
   • Important documents like medical records, insurance details, and emergency contact numbers.
2. Have a Communication Plan
   • Share your emergency plan with family, friends, or caregivers.
   • Keep a list of emergency numbers, including your healthcare provider and local emergency services.
   • Consider a medical alert system or app that notifies others in case of an emergency.
3. Stay Informed
   • Sign up for local weather alerts and emergency notifications.
   • Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. There are often “special needs shelters” that are set up for charging medical devices and accommodating those with medical needs. Be sure to learn where those are in your area in advance.
   • If you have friends or family out of the area, evacuate early if you can.
4. Prepare Your Home
   • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
   • Keep an emergency exit clear of obstacles.
   • Ensure your oxygen equipment is secure and protected from damage.
   • Invest in air cleaners and plastic sheeting so that you can cordon off an area if the air in your area is unhealthy but you are not being evacuated. 

Flood Preparedness

Floods can occur with little warning, making it crucial to act fast.

1. Relocate Your Oxygen Equipment
   • Store your POC and oxygen tanks in waterproof, high locations away from potential flooding.
   • Use waterproof bags to protect smaller medical devices.
   • Keep your concentrator, charging cords and batteries together in a go bag so you can grab it at a moment’s notice.
2. Have a Waterproof Emergency Kit
   • Pack your medications and other essentials in waterproof containers.
   • Include a battery-operated flashlight and radio.
3. Evacuate Early if Necessary
   • Do not wait for floodwaters to rise. If evacuation is advised, leave as early as possible.
   • Ensure your POC and extra batteries are charged and ready.
4. Avoid Contaminated Air
   • Floods often lead to mold and bacterial growth, which are both extremely dangerous for those with a respiratory condition.
   • Wear a mask or respirator if you need to clean or be near flood-damaged areas.
   • If possible remain, in another location until your home can be fully dried, and aired out with all mold and mildew cleaned up.

Storm Preparedness

Whether it’s snow, rain, or even just wind, severe storms can disrupt power supplies and create barriers to accessing medical care.

1. 1. Backup Power Options
      • Invest in a generator or portable power station to keep your oxygen concentrator functioning during outages.
      • Ensure you have extra batteries for your oxygen equipment.
   2. Stay Indoors
      • Avoid exposure to wind, rain, and lightning.
      • Stay in a safe area of your home away from windows and doors.
   3. Charge Your Devices
      • Keep your oxygen concentrator batteries, phone, and other essential devices fully charged when a storm is predicted.
   4. Monitor Air Quality
      • Storms can stir up pollutants and allergens. Use air purifiers and stay indoors as much as possible.
      • Download an app on your phone that monitors air quality.
      • You can also go to www.Airnow.gov to find out what the air quality is.

• Know Where Emergency Power Will Be Available

1. • Places like hospitals, fire stations and police buildings likely have emergency generators and will be able to assist those on life saving devices, such as oxygen concentrators that require power or charging.

Fire Preparedness

Wildfires or house fires can be particularly dangerous for people with COPD due to smoke inhalation and air pollution.

1. Minimize Smoke Exposure
   • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
   • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor pollutants.
   • Wear an N95 mask if you must go outside.
2. Evacuate Immediately if Necessary
   • Have a “go bag” ready with your emergency kit and oxygen equipment.
   • Keep your vehicle fueled and ready to leave quickly.
3. Plan for Oxygen Safety
   • Oxygen is flammable, so avoid open flames or smoking near your equipment.
   • Store oxygen tanks in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
4. Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI)
   • Use apps or websites to track Air Quality Index levels. Avoid outdoor activities when air quality is poor.

CLICK HERE to get our FREE Disaster Preparedness Handbook

What Do the Air Quality Index Numbers Mean

The U.S Environmental Protection Agency runs the Air Quality Index which reports the quality of outdoor air. The AQI measures the density of the five major pollutants in the air. The pollutants are ozone, particulates, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The scale goes from 0 – 300. Anything over 300 is considered hazardous and everyone without breathing protection should leave the area immediately. The scale is as follows:

• 0 – 50 Green or good which means there is little risk
• 51 – 100 Yellow or moderate which means that air quality is acceptable
• 101 – 150 is Orange meaning unhealthy for sensitive groups such as those with COPD or other respiratory conditions
• 151 – 200 is Red or poor which means those in sensitive groups are at risk of serious health effects and healthy groups are at risk as well
• 201 – 300 is Purple and a health alert is issued for everyone
• 301+ is Maroon and air quality is at emergency conditions and everyone should leave the area as soon as possible

Choosing an Air Cleaner

An air cleaner may be beneficial for respiratory patients even if there is no natural disaster going on. They clean dust, mold spores, pet dander, pollen, smoke, and other allergens out of the air decreasing chances of an allergy induced exacerbation. When shopping for an air cleaner keep in mind:

• They are each assigned a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating by the Home Appliance Manufacturers. Choose a machine rated for a larger space than the room you’re trying to clear. That way you don’t have to run it on the highest setting so it will be quieter and you can turn it up during a high pollution event.
• Make sure your furnace, vacuum and any air cleaners have HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Air) filters. This ensures the filter absorbs most particulate matter and allergens instead of reintroducing them into the air.
• Do not use an air cleaner with an electrostatic precipitators. Many people like these because unlike, HEPA filters, they can be cleaned and don’t have to be replaced but these filters are not ideal for respiratory patients because they release ozone, which is irritating to lung tissue.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators: A Lifesaver in Disasters

A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is one of the most critical tools for people with COPD during emergencies. Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, POCs are lightweight, rechargeable, and you don’t have to worry about running out of oxygen because it manufacturers medical grade oxygen from ambient air.

Benefits of a Portable Oxygen Concentrator in Emergencies:

• Portability: Easy to carry during evacuations.
• Rechargeable: Can be powered by batteries, cars, or generators.
• Flexibility: Allows mobility without reliance on stationary tanks.

Tips for Using a POC:

1. Keep your POC fully charged and test it regularly.
2. Store extra batteries and charging cables in your emergency kit.
3. Familiarize yourself with the device’s settings and maintenance requirements. Keep your manual in an easily accessible location.
4. Keep extra tubing and cannulas in case yours develops a leak.

Additional Tips for COPD Management During Disasters

1. Practice Breathing Techniques
   • Use pursed-lip breathing to control shortness of breath and reduce panic.
2. Stay Hydrated
   • Dehydration can thicken mucus, making it harder to breathe. Drink plenty of water.
3. Avoid Triggers
   • Stay away from irritants like dust, smoke, and strong odors.
4. Seek Medical Help if Needed
   • Know the signs of a COPD exacerbation, such as increased shortness of breath, wheezing, or changes in mucus color. Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms worsen.

After the Disaster

• Assess Your Health – Monitor your breathing and oxygen levels. Use a pulse oximeter if available.
• Restock Supplies – Replenish medications, oxygen supplies, and emergency kit items.
• Address Mental Health – Disasters can be emotionally taxing. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals if needed.
• Monitor the Air Quality Index – Do not return to the area until the AQI is at acceptable levels.
• Check for Mold – Mold and mildew are extremely dangerous for everyone, especially those with respiratory conditions. If possible send a friend or family member ahead to assess the situation before you return.
• Consider Weather – Keep in mind if power is still out that climate control of humidity or extreme temperatures is going to be impossible. High humidity especially can negatively affect breathing.

Apps for Disaster Preparedness for those with COPD or Portable Oxygen Concentrators

1. FEMA App
   • Real-time weather alerts, disaster resources, and recovery information (USA).
   • iOS | Android
2. American Red Cross Apps
   • Includes apps for emergency alerts, first aid, blood donations, and shelter locations.
   • Red Cross App Suite iOs | Android
3. Zello
   • Push-to-talk app for communication when cellular networks are unreliable.
   • iOS | Android
4. PulsePoint
   • Sends alerts for nearby cardiac emergencies and offers CPR guidance.
   • iOS | Android
5. Life360
   • Family location tracking, check-ins, and safety alerts.
   • iOS | Android
6. NOAA Weather Radar
   • Real-time weather alerts and forecasts.
   • iOS | Android
7. First Aid by American Red Cross
   • Step-by-step guidance for first-aid scenarios.
   • iOS | Android

Websites for Disaster Information and Resources

1. Ready.gov
   • Comprehensive disaster preparedness resources (USA).
   • Visit Ready.gov
2. National Weather Service (NWS)
   • Local weather alerts and warnings.
   • Visit Weather.gov
3. ReliefWeb
   • Global updates on disasters and humanitarian crises.
   • Visit ReliefWeb
4. CDC Emergency Preparedness
   • Guidance for health-related emergencies, including pandemics.
   • Visit CDC Emergency Preparedness
5. International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
   • Global disaster response and preparedness resources.
   • Visit IFRC
6. National Hurricane Center
   • Real-time updates on hurricanes and tropical storms.
   • Visit NHC

Organizations That Provide Disaster Support

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
   • Disaster relief and recovery assistance (USA).
   • FEMA Website
2. American Red Cross
   • Emergency shelters, blood donations, and disaster recovery aid.
   • Red Cross Website
3. Team Rubicon
   • Disaster response organization staffed by military veterans and first responders.
   • Visit Team Rubicon
4. Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services
   • Provides food, shelter, and financial aid during disasters.
   • Visit Salvation Army EDS
5. World Food Programme (WFP)
   • Global leader in emergency food assistance.
   • Visit WFP
6. Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières)
   • Medical assistance in global disaster zones.
   • Visit MSF
7. Local Emergency Management Agencies
   • Search for your city, county, or state emergency management website for localized support and alerts.

Additional Resources

• • 211 Services:
    Call or visit 211.org for local resources, including shelter, food, and healthcare.
  • Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS):
    Alerts on global disasters like earthquakes and floods.
    • Visit GDACS

Be Ready!

For individuals with COPD or those reliant on oxygen therapy, disaster preparedness is not optional—it’s essential. By creating an emergency plan, maintaining your portable oxygen concentrator, and staying informed, you can navigate floods, storms, and fires with greater confidence and safety.

Remember, preparation saves lives. Start planning today to protect your health and well-being during emergencies.

OxiMedical can Help

Call OxiMedical today at 1-888-643-4921 and our respiratory specialists can suggest external chargers, alternate carrying cases or other things that might be useful in emergencies. We specialize in finding solutions for respiratory patients. We have easy qualifying financing and if you’re on Medicare, we can ensure that you get all the benefits to which you are entitled.