What Goes in an Emergency Plan

Start your plan with the signs. These are changes that tell you blood sugar may be too low or too high.

A low often brings shakiness, sweating, hunger or confusion. A high often brings thirst, tiredness or needing the bathroom more than usual.

Signs are not the same for everyone. Write down the ones you notice most, so others can spot them too.

Next comes one question. Can the person swallow safely?

If not, give no food or drink. This includes someone who has passed out or is having a seizure.

Call 911, or your local emergency number, right away. If you have glucagon, give it. Ask your care team what else your plan should say.

Your plan also says where your supplies and medical information are kept. Choose one place that is easy to get to.

Good spots might be a kitchen shelf or a bag by the door. A bedside drawer could work too.

Let others at home know where that spot is.

Key takeaways

• Your plan lists signs of a low and a high.
• First steps depend on whether the person can swallow safely.
• Supplies and medical information belong in one known place.

Try it

Today, write down the phone number you would call first, and the spot where your supplies are kept.