CIVIL EMERGENCIES IN AOTEAROA NZ ARE COORDINATED BY CIVIL DEFENCE.

REGULAR UPDATES ARE FOUND ON THEIR WEBSITE

As a cochlear implant user, it's important to take steps to prepare for civil emergencies, such as natural disasters or other crises. Here are a few tips:

• Make a plan: Develop a plan for what you will do in an emergency, including evacuation routes and safe places to go. Make sure that family and friends know your plan.
• Prepare a disaster supply kit: Make sure you have enough supplies to last for several days, including a battery-operated or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, first-aid supplies, and any medications you need.
• Keep important documents and equipment in a secure, easily accessible location: This could include your cochlear implant, charger, and backup batteries.
• Know how to use your cochlear implant in an emergency: Make sure you know how to adjust the volume and other settings on your cochlear implant in case of a power outage.
• Stay informed: Follow news and emergency broadcasts, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
• Plan for communication: Consider bringing a white cane, a communication card, or a device to help you communicate if you lose your cochlear implant or if your hearing is affected by an emergency.

In addition, these are also helpful things to have in a grab bag at the ready:

• A waterproof case or bag for the device to protect it in case of inclement weather.
• A spare coil or sound processor, in case your current device malfunctions.
• A list of emergency contact numbers, including your hearing healthcare provider and support services.
• A note from your doctor explaining your hearing device and the need for support in an emergency situation.
• Consider adding any necessary tools, such as a screwdriver, to help with maintenance and repairs.

Remember, it's important to regularly check and update your emergency kit to make sure it contains all the necessary items and that they are in good condition.

CARRY A MEDIC ALERT

A medical alert tag can also help in emergency situations where you may not be able to communicate effectively with rescuers or your implants have fallen off/been lost. Make sure to include your important information such as name, contact information, your hearing loss and cochlear implants and any additional medical conditions or allergies. This way, emergency services will have all the information they need to provide you with appropriate help and care.

INFORM OTHERS

Let people know where your emergency kit is and what they need to know in case something happens.

Having a portable charger for your phone is a great idea. It ensures that you can stay connected and communicate even if your sound processor battery dies. The health apps can also be a valuable tool for keeping important information about your cochlear implants and health status easily accessible.

Additionally, it's important to educate your friends, family, and coworkers about your cochlear implants, what they do, and how to help you in an emergency. Make sure they know where your emergency kit is located and what to do in case of an emergency. This way, you'll have peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for any unexpected situations.

It's always a good idea to plan ahead and stay informed in case of any emergency, and these tips can help cochlear implant users be better prepared.