Since food, water, and insulin are essential for people with type 1 diabetes, being prepared for emergencies is crucial. You never know when severe storms, floods, fires, hurricanes, tornados, power outages, national security events, or infectious disease outbreaks might occur which is why disasters always require a backup plan.
This might include having an emergency kit with extra insulin, syringes, blood sugar monitoring supplies, insulin pump supplies, food, water, and treatment for low blood sugar in an easily accessible location.
This blog post will delve into what to include in your type 1 diabetes emergency kit so that if disaster strikes, you will feel confident and prepared with all of the essentials you might need to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.
What Should I Include in My Type 1 Diabetes Emergency Kit?
Let's review the important items you will want to make sure to include in your diabetes emergency kit.
Blood Sugar Management Supplies
It is recommended to have enough blood sugar management supplies to last for 1-2 weeks in your kit. Make sure to include:
- Glucometer and extra test strips
- Insulin vials or insulin pens
- Insulin pump supplies
- Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) supplies
- Extra syringes or pen needles
- Alcohol swabs
- Ketone testing kit
- Insulin cooling case
Food and Drinks
Including plenty of food, drinks, and items to treat low blood sugar in your kit is important. Consider adding the following:
- Transcend Glucose Gels for raising low blood sugars quickly
- Non-perishable snacks with carbohydrates and protein such as:
- Peanut butter
- Nuts
- Trail mix
- Crackers
- Dried fruits such as raisins or freeze-dried berries
- Granola bars
- Protein bars
- Beef or turkey sticks or jerky
- Canned goods including vegetables, fruits, beans, tuna, and chicken (make sure to include a can opener)
- Juice boxes or small containers of juice
- Bottled water
- Zero-carb electrolyte drinks such as Gatorade Zero or electrolyte powders to add to water
Important Medical Information
Keep your medical information in a sealed, waterproof bag in your diabetes emergency kit. Include the following documentation:
- Doctor's contact information
- Medication list with dosages
- A list of insulin dosages at meal times and long-acting insulin doses
- Insulin pump users should include a list with basal rates, insulin-to-carb ratios, and correction factors
- Emergency contact information
- List of all medical conditions and allergies
- Copy of health insurance information
- Copy of photo ID
- Any other pertinent medical information
Other Important Supplies to Consider
Having some other practical, non-diabetes-related essentials in your kit is also a good idea. Consider including:
- All other medications and medical supplies (at least a 7-day supply)
- Power banks and device chargers for phones and medical devices that require charging
- First aid kit with gloves, bandages, first aid ointment, and gauze
- Hand sanitizer
- Extra change of clothes and shoes for each family member
- Napkins and paper towels or wipes
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Flashlight with extra batteries
Additional Considerations For Your Diabetes Emergency Kit
- Storing your kit: Choose a portable, waterproof container. Keep it cool and easily accessible, out of direct sunlight and away from where it could get damaged by water. The best place to store your kit is in your basement or an interior room or closet.
- Replacing supplies: Check the expiration dates once every 6 months and restock used or expired items as needed.
- Educating others: Inform family, friends, and caregivers about your kit so they know where to find it and what it contains.
- Back-up insulin: Make sure to keep at least a 1 month's supply of insulin on hand and easily accessible in your fridge at all times. If you are on an insulin pump, keep a backup supply of long-acting insulin with the proper syringes in case your pump happens to malfunction.
- Medical ID: a medical ID should be worn at all times. This lets medical professionals know that you have diabetes and any other health conditions so they can start the appropriate treatment as soon as possible. A medical ID can be in the form of jewelry such as a bracelet, or a card in your wallet. Some medical IDs have a QR code that can be scanned by medical professionals for more detailed information.
Conclusion
With a well-stocked diabetes emergency kit, you can face any situation with peace of mind. This will save you time and worry if and when a disaster strikes. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring you stay safe and your blood sugar stays on track, no matter what life throws your way.
Remember, this is just a guide. Make sure to personalize your kit based on your specific needs and treatment plan.
For more information on creating a personalized type 1 diabetes emergency kit, check out the resources from the American Diabetes Association and the Diabetes Disaster Response Coalition.
With knowledge and preparation, you can stay in control of your diabetes while living your life to the fullest!
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About Lindsey Cohen, RDN, LDN, CDCES, NBC-HWC
Lindsey is registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She currently runs ABC Nutrition Solutions, a virtual private practice and online business that offers a diabetes focused blog, nutrition counseling, and content creation services. This article was last reviewed on 7/18/2024.
*Disclaimer: All content and information in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only.