Advancing Preparedness for Life Support Users During Power Outages Toolkit.

ASTHO has created a preparedness toolkit for states and territories to use as a resource when planning for unexpected power outages. When energy grids are overloaded, or power is shut off due to unforeseen weather events, procedures aren’t always in place to protect those most dependent on electricity: life support users. 

​The new toolkit details ways to identify current plans and areas for improvement that jurisdictions can implement before power outages occur. This guidance is offered as a preparedness outline to safeguard patients using electricity-dependent medical equipment. With insights from Louisiana Department of Health, and best practices from City of New Orleans, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), HomeCare Association of Louisiana, and more, this toolkit will help communities identify strengths and offer opportunities for readiness improvements. 

ASTHO invites additional thoughts or questions, please send them to (mnilz@astho.org) or Annie Evans (aevans@astho.org).  
Toolkit