Winter Emergency Services Every Senior Should Have on Speed Dial
Winter can be a magical time of year, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially for seniors. From slippery sidewalks to freezing temperatures and power outages, this season often requires access to the right support systems.
Knowing who to call in every emergency can go a long way in keeping them safe and prepared. That’s why we at Custodia bring you this guide to explore the essential emergency services every senior should have to ensure peace of mind this winter.
Non-emergency Local Medical Transportation
With winter comes health problems, whether they are seasonal infections or weather-related injuries. Access to non-emergency medical care can be life-saving. Keep the phone number of the nearest outpatient clinics or telehealth services handy. They can provide assistance even for cuts, grazes or health consultations that do not require an ambulance.
Many health regions also have nurse advice lines that allow quick consultation on symptoms or medication. In addition, some pharmacies dispense prescriptions or over-the-counter medications, which can be immensely helpful during heavy snowfalls.
Having these contacts on hand will help you ensure that seniors receive the medical care they may need without creating unnecessary panic.
Snow Removal Services
Snow-filled driveways and icy roads aren’t just a nuisance, they’re a hazard. Snow that isn’t removed poses a slip and fall hazard, which is why it’s important to rely on professional snow removal services like those from Custodia.
Turn to reliable snow removal services or community programs available to seniors. Some municipalities even offer snow removal services for seniors at a lower price. Save their contact information for days when an unexpected storm makes shoveling too dangerous.
If you can’t hire a service like Custodia, often members of neighborhood groups or volunteer networks can remove snow from your driveways and sidewalks. Having a trusted snow removal provider on speed dial keeps seniors mobile and reduces stress.
Heating And Furnace Repair Services
With Ontario’s cold winters, you need a heating system that works. When temperatures drop, a working furnace should be a top priority, so an unexpected furnace breakdown can quickly turn into an emergency.
Look for local heating repair or home management companies that are always available when you need them. Save their number, too, so you can count on help at the time of the breakdown. Don’t forget that regular fall maintenance can keep your furnace from breaking down, but having a backup plan ensures that your seniors stay warm in case of an unexpected problem.
Many furnace repair services offer temporary measures, such as loaner furnaces, until major, time-consuming repairs can be made. That’s because, if you prepare for heating emergencies, you’ll keep the cold at bay.
Power Companies And Hotlines
Winter storms can cause power outages or interruptions to water or heating systems. Power company phone numbers are critical for reporting downed wires, power outages or any other problems that may occur.
Water utilities often have hotlines with up-to-date information on outages and expected restoration times. Water utilities can offer tips on how to avoid frozen pipes or other winter water-related problems.
Sign up to receive automatic outage notifications via text message or email, if possible. Learning to anticipate a utility mishap can turn a tense situation into child’s play, especially if you have a well-equipped emergency kit.
Plumbing Services For Frozen Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes are a common but serious winter problem that can lead to flooding and costly damage. It is necessary to have the number of a reliable plumber for these types of emergencies.
Many plumbing companies or home maintenance companies such as Custodia offer emergency services for frozen or leaking pipes. These companies can offer guidance on preventative measures, such as insulating pipes and how to keep faucets from dripping during extreme cold snaps.
Even small plumbing problems, such as a clogged drain, can be exacerbated in winter, when cold temperatures complicate matters. A reliable plumbing service can ensure that a home is in good working order.
Transportation Services For Seniors
Winter can make road conditions difficult, even for drivers who feel capable of handling icy roads in general, and those who are elderly may not be as confident in their ability to drive safely on them. Reliable and accessible transportation options for seniors ensure that they arrive safely to appointments or errands.
Contact transportation programs geared toward seniors, most run by community organizations or municipalities. These services are often geared toward seniors and offer mobility assistance and door-to-door service.
And in the event of inclement weather, cab services and ridesharing apps like Uber are excellent alternatives. Having those numbers saved takes the pressure off of having to plan line-by-line at the last minute when the roads get rough.
In-home Assistance And Personal Support Services
Some days, winter can make it difficult to do things like cooking, cleaning or taking care of yourself. Just like having family and friends close by, knowing that home assistance like the one we can provide at Custodia is available not only encourages independence, but also helps seniors through difficult times.
Home care companies offer a wide range of services, from bathing and nursing to companionship. Several Ontario government programs cover or subsidize these types of services, which lowers the price.
Even for fairly independent seniors, short-term services can provide peace of mind in extreme times when it is not safe or practical to leave home.
Emergency Contacts For Neighbors or Local Volunteers
In winter emergencies, neighbors and local volunteers are often critical to lend a hand. Having a family member within the community to call is sometimes much quicker and more helpful than waiting for a service professional.
Develop a list of trusted neighbors, members of religious groups or others who have offered to help.
Community support networks also often fill in gaps, but they also provide a sense of connection and belonging. Having family and friends close by is as comforting as having a good professional service.
First Aid And Emergency Hotlines
No emergency contact list would be complete without the numbers of first responders, of course. Seniors should remember to save the numbers for local police, fire and ambulance services, in addition to 911.
Research other resources available in your area, such as non-emergency police hotlines. They are useful for less immediate things, such as suspicious activity or danger in your neighborhood.
They also need to download safety apps like “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) or the “Red Cross Emergencies” app so they have access to quick resources for a range of emergencies. Writing a plan ahead of time also ensures that seniors receive the right assistance at the right time.
Why Should You Choose Custodia to Help You With Home Maintenance?
At Custodia we provide maintenance, care and support services to seniors. Our goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment in which you can enjoy your home without worry. Some of the reasons why we should be your number 1 choice are:
- Professionalism and experience: our staff is made up of highly qualified professionals who understand the special needs of seniors. Each member of our team is committed to providing high quality services and meeting your needs.
- Wide range of services: We offer a wide variety of home care and maintenance services, ranging from repairs and general maintenance to accessibility adaptations and personal support. We make sure we meet all your requirements so you can live safely and comfortably in your home.
- Convenience and reliability: we manage all coordination and scheduling of maintenance activities, giving you peace of mind and eliminating the need to deal with multiple vendors. We also have a reliable staff that is always available to attend to your needs immediately.
- Safety: Your safety is our top priority. We conduct home security assessments and make recommendations to ensure your safety.
Our staff is also trained to handle emergency situations and to act and respond appropriately in the event of an incident. We are proud to offer our services, support and care to ensure that you live safely and comfortably in your home.