Optimal Care Emergency Planning: Essential Strategies for Safety

At Optimal Care, the safety and well-being of our Patients, Families, and Employees is always our top priority. Our agency maintains a comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan to ensure we can continue providing essential care during natural disasters, severe weather, power outages, or other emergencies.

While we make every effort to maintain home visits and support services, there may be times when conditions make travel unsafe for our staff. If this occurs, we will contact you as soon as possible to update you and coordinate your care needs by phone or through your care team.

Patient Priority Levels

Each Patient is assigned a priority level to help guide our response in the event of a disaster or community-wide emergency. These designations are reviewed and updated as needed.

  • Level I: Contact and/or visit within 2 hours
  • Level II: Contact and/or visit within 24 hours
  • Level III: Contact and/or visit within 72 hours

These classifications help us communicate efficiently and ensure that Patients with the most urgent medical needs receive timely assistance.

If an emergency affects your area, please follow local public safety announcements, stay tuned to official weather alerts, and follow the instructions of emergency personnel.
If you must relocate or evacuate, please notify our office as soon as possible with your temporary location or shelter information so we can continue coordinating your care.

Power Outages

If a power outage occurs and you are unable to reach our office due to phone disruptions:

  • In an emergency: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
  • If it is not an emergency: Contact a nearby friend, relative, or neighbor for immediate assistance.

Winter Weather

During severe winter conditions such as heavy snow, ice, or extreme cold, travel may be restricted or delayed. Please stay safe by:

  • Wearing layers of loose, warm clothing and waterproof outerwear.
  • Using hats and mittens to preserve body heat.
  • Keeping extra blankets, flashlights, and a charged phone available.

If you lose power or cannot reach us:

  • Emergency: Call 911.
  • Non-emergency: Contact a relative or neighbor for support.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

An emerging infectious disease is a contagious illness that is newly identified or increasing in frequency. Examples include COVID-19, measles, Ebola, and Zika virus.

To help prevent the spread of infection:

  • Stay current on vaccinations recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Wear a mask if you are ill or around others who are sick.
  • Follow good hygiene and infection-control practices, including frequent handwashing.

During an outbreak or public health emergency:

  • Follow updates and guidance from local health departments, emergency officials, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov.
  • Stay informed about symptoms, testing, and treatment availability in your area.
  • Seek medical attention immediately if you or a household member is in a high-risk group and develops symptoms consistent with the reported illness.

Preparing an Emergency Kit

It is important to be prepared before an emergency occurs. Keep a home emergency kit stocked with:

  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food
  • Medications and medical supplies
  • Warm blankets and extra clothing
  • Manual can opener, cups, and utensils
  • Rock salt or sand for icy walkways
  • Portable power bank for charging devices
  • Extra fuel or generator (if applicable)

Review and refresh your supplies regularly, especially before severe weather seasons.

Emergency Preparedness for Pets

Your pets are part of your Family — and their safety matters, too. If conditions are unsafe for you, they are unsafe for them.

Before an emergency:

  • Ensure your pet wears a collar with identification tags, including your mobile number.
  • Keep vaccinations and medical records up to date.
  • Prepare a pet emergency kit with at least five days’ worth of food, water, medications, leashes, and waste supplies.
  • Include a photo of you with your pet to assist in identification if separated.

During an evacuation:

  • Plan ahead for pet-friendly lodging or care options. Most public shelters do not accept animals (except service animals).
  • Identify nearby hotels, boarding facilities, veterinarians, or friends who can care for your pet if needed.
  • Prepare a pet emergency kit with at least five days’ worth of food, water, medications, leashes, and waste supplies.
  • Bring your pet’s food, carrier, and medical supplies with you.

Our Commitment

Optimal Care regularly reviews and updates its Emergency Preparedness Plan to align with state and federal safety standards. Our staff are trained to respond quickly and effectively to protect your health and safety in any situation.

Your peace of mind is important to us — if you have questions about our emergency procedures or would like to review your individual emergency care plan, please contact your local Optimal Care office.