Extreme weather events: A practical guide for clinicians

What you need to know• Assess your patient's exposure to weather related hazards and risk factors that make them vulnerable • With your patient, create an emergency plan and kit, review essential drugs and devices, and adjust them as needed for anticipated hazards • During a disaster, try to maintain continuity of care while monitoring hazard specific warning systems, considering your own safety and that of your family and staff • As a priority, manage high acuity patients and ensure access to essential treatments such as insulin, dialysis, and oxygen • After a disaster, ensure the physical and psychological safety of yourself, staff, and the health infrastructure before returning to work.