Positive Aging: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

Understanding When and How to Call 911

One of the most important reminders from the summit was that calling 911 is always the right choice during an emergency. DelComm representatives explained what happens when a call is received and emphasized that answering questions from a dispatcher does not delay the response of first responders. In fact, those questions help emergency personnel arrive better prepared to provide assistance. 

• 📞When you call 911
  • Do not hang up
  • Follow instructions exactly
  • Use your speakerphone if you are administering aid
  • If you can’t call, text 911 — be sure to include your location

What to do when help is on the way

When waiting for first responders, think about your location – is there someone available to help the patient while another person unlocks doors, turns on lights, secures pets, and directs responders.  Think about what information will be needed, like the patient’s ID, insurance card, health history and current medications.  SourcePoint’s LifeCard is a simple tool that helps first responders quickly access important medical information during an emergency. Download a free LifeCard and keep it in an easily accessible location.  Printed full-sized and wallet-sized versions are also available.

Being Ready for Weather and Other Emergencies

Delaware County Emergency Management shared information about severe weather awareness, emergency notifications, and disaster preparedness. Their mission centers on helping residents prepare, respond, recover, and mitigate risks before emergencies occur.

A few key reminders included:

• Extreme heat remains the leading weather-related cause of death each year. Staying hydrated, limiting strenuous activity, and seeking air-conditioned spaces during heat events can help prevent illness.
• Sign up for emergency alerts through DelcoAlerts.org to receive timely information during severe weather or other emergencies.
• Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup to stay informed during power outages.
• Know the difference between a weather watch and a warning so you can respond appropriately when conditions change.

Emergency Management officials also encouraged every household to assemble an emergency preparedness kit with water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and other essential supplies.  Premade kits are available to purchase online,

Protecting Yourself from Scams and Identity Theft

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office shared information on a number of different community programs offered, including Project Lifesaver, which provides resources for families that have a loved one prone to wandering, and Medication disposal and Naloxone distribution. 

🎯  Naloxone is not just for treating an overdose from illicit drug use.  It can be used if someone inadvertently takes too much of a prescribed medication.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office offered practical strategies for preventing scams, identity theft, and financial fraud. Rather than focusing on fear, the presentation encouraged attendees to stay informed and trust their instincts. Many scams are designed to create a false sense of urgency and pressure people into making quick decisions.  Common scams continue to evolve, including phishing attempts, tech support scams, fake investment opportunities, romance scams, and cryptocurrency schemes. 

Some of the best defenses are also the simplest:

• Keep passwords and PINs private.
• Regularly review bank and online accounts.
• Be extremely cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages requesting money or personal information.
• Verify requests independently before acting.
• Contact law enforcement if something feels suspicious.

Once money has been sent—especially through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency—it is often very difficult to recover.

Fire Safety and Aging in Place

The City of Delaware Fire Department highlighted programs and services that help older adults remain safe and independent at home. In addition to responding to emergencies, the department works proactively through risk-reduction, home-safety education, and service-coordination programs.

Attendees learned several important fire safety practices:

• Install and regularly test smoke alarms.
• Develop and practice a home escape plan.
• Ensure doors and windows can be easily opened during an emergency.

The department also shared information about smoke- and carbon monoxide-detector assistance programs available to eligible City of Delaware residents.

Small Steps Make a Big Difference

One of the most encouraging themes throughout the day was that safety does not require dramatic changes. Often, the most effective actions are simple ones:

• Establish an evening routine that includes locking doors and vehicles.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
• Create an emergency plan with family members.
• Stay connected to trusted sources of information.

These small habits can provide peace of mind while helping older adults maintain their independence and confidence.

A Community Working Together

The Senior Safety Summit demonstrated the strength of collaboration across Delaware County’s public safety organizations. From emergency dispatchers and deputies to firefighters and emergency management professionals, each presenter shared a common goal: helping residents stay safe, informed, and prepared.

The event’s theme, “Be Prepared, Not Panicked,” perfectly captured the spirit of the day. Preparedness is not about expecting the worst—it’s about having the knowledge, resources, and confidence to handle challenges when they arise. Through education, awareness, and community partnerships, Delaware County continues to empower older adults to live safely and thrive.

This information aligns with goals from Delaware County’s Age-Friendly Action Plan.  Learn more at MySourcePoint.org/age-friendly.