Resources to contact before and during an emergency

There are many resources offering useful information that can help you prepare so you’ll know what to do and how to stay safe in an emergency. Here we have listed some of those resources and answered some commonly asked questions about how to prepare and seek care during an emergency.

Q: What can I do now to prepare for a possible emergency?

Having a plan for what to do in an emergency can help you stay calm, think clearly and do what’s needed to stay safe in a time of crisis. A detailed plan also prepares you for the unexpected events that may follow many natural disasters, such as power outages, transportation issues and problems with communication.

Your plan should include having enough non-perishable food, water, medications and other supplies on hand to last a few days should a disaster occur. And, you should know what to do if you are told to evacuate.

Q: What if I have to evacuate—is it safe to go to a shelter?

Yes. Public health officials have been taking a lot of new measures since the onset of COVID-19 to ensure safety for everyone. Contact your local emergency management agency to find out the safety precautions being taken at any shelter you are considering. To find the American Red Cross shelters that are open in your area, listen to your local media, check with your local American Red Cross chapter or visit their website at www.redcross.org.

Q: What should I take with me if I need to leave my home?

In an emergency, every minute counts, so save valuable time by knowing ahead what you will take with you if you have to leave your home because of a wildfire or other emergency. Make of a list of what you will take with you and keep it where you can easily find it in at a moment’s notice. Don’t forget your SCAN ID card!

Click here for a detailed list of what to take and do if you need to leave your home.

Q: What if I need care and I'm at a relative's house out of the area?

Many of your SCAN benefits are available when you’re out of the area, including urgent and emergency care.

If your care is being affected by a crisis, such as a major storm, heatwave, wildfire or earthquake, check our “State of Emergency” page  here.

Q: I have a scheduled appointment, but my doctor's office is closed due to a local emergency. What do I do?

If you had a routine appointment scheduled or are due for preventive care or a follow-up visit, definitely call your doctor. Many doctors are doing these types of visits “virtually,” using a smartphone, tablet or computer, or even by telephone.

SCAN members can call the Nurse Advice Line 24/7. And if you can't get to an urgent care center, call Doctor On Demand—also available 24/7. Doctor On Demand is available for virtual visits as well as telehealth calls. Both these benefits have a $0 copay.

If you are having trouble getting needed care from your regular doctor, please see these guidelines that apply during a State of Emergency.

Q: I live on my own but have trouble walking. What can I do to make sure I could get to safety in an emergency?

As part of your emergency preparedness plan, share your concerns with family and/or friends and arrange to have someone who will be responsible for checking on you in an emergency. Also, contact the local emergency management agency for programs and services available in your area, such as emergency alerts and emergency response teams.

For details and up-to-date information on emergencies and preparedness, please refer to these organizations:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Natural Disasters and Severe Weather website

SCAN also provides guidance that is updated regularly to help you stay healthy and get care during current states of emergency, wildfires, heatwaves and other community safety concerns. How to Get Care During a Declared State of Emergency
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