Hurricane Prep: How to Safely Store Your Medication.
It’s important for anyone taking medications to have an emergency plan during a natural disaster, like a hurricane. Here are a few guidelines and precautions that can help you prepare in case of an emergency.
Preparation
- Take inventory of necessary medications; have ice and clean water available; and place medications in water-tight containers.
Drugs that Need Refrigeration
- If a drug that needs refrigeration goes without for a long period of time, it should be thrown away. If the drug is required for survival, continue to use it until you’re able to get a new supply.
Drugs that Need to Be Mixed with Water
- Drugs should only be mixed with purified or bottled water.
Storage
- Drugs should be stored in water-tight containers to prevent getting wet. Medication impacted by water contamination during a hurricane can lead to serious health effects.
- Drugs that come into contact with excessive heat should be thrown away.
If you’re concerned about the effectiveness or safety of a particular medication, contact your pharmacist, doctor, or the manufacturer’s customer service department.