At times of natural (or man-made disaster), we should have a little survival kit to grab and ready to go. Most especially, those people with special health conditions, like the diabetics.

A long term diabetes study at Tulane University has prepared a "Disaster Survival Guide" that can help diabetics stay healthy during disruptions caused by a hurricane or other emergency:

The kit described in the survival guide may be contained easily in a plastic tub with snap-on lid. The team purchased items for a sample kit, creating a display to educate patients who visit the clinic.

A key item in the kit is the medicine box, which will include the medications that diabetes patients would need to bridge the first several days of an evacuation. The guide suggests including first aid basics such as antiseptic ointment, bandages, aspirin, ibuprofen and antacids. Also on the list are single-serving cans or pouches of foods and ample water.

The guide lists useful items to include that may be difficult to find during an emergency. These include a blanket, simple tools, rope, a tarpaulin, garbage bags, duct tape, a freezer pack and chemical cooling packs (for insulin users).

It pays to be always ready.

Find more details from the full report.

[In Photo: A well-planned survival kit with correct food, water and medicines will help diabetics maintain good health in case of a hurricane evacuation or other emergency. (Photo by Cheryl Gerber)]