Tamara Crane | Feb 23 2026 17:00
Severe weather is part of life in Bossier Parish, from strong storms and tornadoes to flooding and power outages. While these events affect everyone, they can be especially challenging for older adults and caregivers. The good news is that preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated. A few thoughtful steps taken ahead of time can help you feel safer and more confident when severe weather threatens.
Some individuals benefit from extra planning. You may want additional support if you live alone, have limited transportation, manage chronic conditions, use mobility or vision or hearing aids, rely on power-dependent medical equipment, or take medications that must stay refrigerated. If two or more of these apply, it’s a good idea to build a plan with a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor and keep a written copy somewhere visible, such as on the refrigerator.
Start With a Simple Home Plan
Knowing where to go during a severe storm or tornado warning is one of the most important steps. In most homes, the safest place is:
- A lowest-level, interior room
- Away from windows
- Often a bathroom or closet
Identifying this space ahead of time and practicing going there once can reduce stress if a warning is issued.
Stay Connected
Communication planning helps you avoid confusion during emergencies. Write down contact information for:
- One local contact
- One out-of-area contact
- One nearby neighbor
Decide when you’ll check in, such as during a watch, when a storm begins, and after it passes. Keep this list on your fridge, in your emergency kit, and on your phone so it’s accessible even if the power is out.
Be Ready to Leave If Needed
Some situations may require leaving home. Thinking ahead can make this much easier. Decide where you would go, who could drive you, and who your backup option would be. If you may need assistance, make arrangements early before severe weather is in the forecast.
Stay Informed
Using more than one source of information helps ensure you don’t miss important updates. Phone alerts are helpful, but they work best alongside local notifications, weather radios or apps, and TV or newspaper coverage. Remember the difference: a watch means conditions are possible and you should stay alert, while a warning means the storm is happening or imminent and action is needed right away.
Prepare Essential Supplies
Many older adults find it helpful to prepare two emergency kits: a portable Go Kit and a Power Outage Kit for staying home.
A Go Kit typically includes identification and insurance copies, emergency contacts, water, snacks, a flashlight with batteries, glasses or hearing aid supplies, cash, and phone charging options. For medications, keep a printed list with names, doses, and pharmacy information, along with a three- to seven-day supply if possible after speaking with your doctor or pharmacist.
A Power Outage Kit focuses on comfort and safety at home and may include flashlights (no candles), extra batteries, bottled water, shelf-stable food, blankets, cooler space for medications, and backup charging options.
Plan for Medical Needs
Keep medical information simple and easy to access. If you use medical devices, write down the model and supplier, plan for backup power or an alternate safe location, and keep instructions handy for caregivers. If you use a generator, never operate it indoors, in garages, or on enclosed porches, and keep it far from doors and windows. Carbon monoxide detectors provide an important added layer of protection.
During and After the Storm
During outages, conserve phone batteries, stay hydrated, and limit opening the refrigerator or freezer. Avoid driving through floodwater or using grills or charcoal indoors. After the storm, check for injuries and hazards, avoid downed power lines, send an “I’m safe” message, and document damage when it’s safe to do so. Continue monitoring for heat or cold stress if power remains out.
How Bossier Council on Aging Can Help
Based on eligibility and availability, Bossier Council on Aging may assist with meals when shopping or cooking is disrupted, transportation for essential errands and non-emergency medical needs, and home-based support and check-ins. Calling early when storms are forecast is encouraged.
