Disaster Relief and Preparedness

The Network is working with the Diabetes Disaster Response Coalition (DDRC) to help those who have been impacted by natural disasters or other emergencies. Below are a list of resources, including information on what our partners are doing. If you or a loved one has been impacted by a natural disaster or emergency, please contact 765.314.DDRC (3372).

In addition, the Endocrine Society would like to hear from clinicians and researchers, if there is something we could do to help continue lifesaving work. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

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Managing Diabetes During a Natural Disaster or Emergency

People living with diabetes are at greater risk during a natural disaster or emergency. Stress, physical exertion, regular access to food or medicine can make managing blood sugar difficult. It is important to prepare a diabetes emergency kit in advance to minimize, worry, time, and complications once a disaster strikes.

Diabetes supplies to keep in your kit include:

• A week supply (or more) of all medication, including insulin and glucagon
• Supplies to check your blood sugar, such as testing strips and lancets
• Extra supplies for insulin pump or CGM (it is important to protect from water)
• Cooler and reusable cold packs
• Empty plastic bottle or sharp container to safely carry syringes, needles and lancets
• Items to treat high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) such as pump needles and lancets
• Items to treat low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) such as juice, soda, honey, hard candy, glucose tablets, and glucagon
• A document for others that identifies your emergency needs

Other Supplies to Pack:

• Non-perishable foods (canned or vacuum sealed)
• Bottled water
• Pen/Pencil and notepad to record blood sugar, other test results, and any new symptoms
• First aid supplies
• Extra clothing
• Cell phone and charger
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries

Download the Disaster Relief Pocket Guide

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Emergency Resources

The American Diabetes Association hotline is available Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM–8:00 PM EST at +1-800-DIABETES to support people with diabetes. Learn more 

Local Shelters

A live map of open shelters from the American Red Cross can be found here. You can also contact the American Red Cross directly at 1-800-733-2767.

Local Pharmacies

A list of open pharmacies in the area can be found here.

Locate a Loved One

A natural disaster or emergency may tear families apart. Contact the American Red Cross for assistance in reconnecting with a loved one.

Federal Resources

If you are in the continental U.S. or Puerto Rico, contact your local Health and Human Services at 211 for assistance or the HHS Disaster Distress Line: 1-800-985-5990.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) resources and tips.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Diabetes Education Program Disaster Preparedness Plan

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers information on Medical Devices and Hurricane Emergencies including:

• Tips about Medical Devices and Hurricane Disasters
• Medical Devices Requiring Refrigeration
• Medical Devices that Have Been Exposed to Heat and Humidity

How You Can Help

If you would like to donate diabetes supplies, visit Insulin for Life to learn how you can get involved.

Donating blood or platelets is also a great way to help. Visit the American Red Cross' website to learn more about the donation process and where you can donate.