Living with diabetes demands constant vigilance and preparation, especially during emergencies.

Whether faced with a natural disaster, an unexpected power outage, or an extended time away from home, having an emergency diabetes kit can be crucial. This guide outlines the essential items to include in your kit to ensure you are always ready. Additionally, for those needing to buy or sell diabetic supplies such as diabetic test strips, blood glucose strips, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), Libre systems, Dexcom devices, and Omnipods, we provide helpful resources and links.

Essential Items for Your Emergency Diabetes Kit

Blood Glucose Monitoring Supplies

Consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential for managing diabetes.

Your kit should include:

Blood Glucose Meter: Ensure it is functional and has fresh batteries.
Diabetic Test Strips: Pack a sufficient supply of strips compatible with your meter.
Lancets and Lancet Device: Include extra lancets and a device for finger-pricking.
Alcohol Swabs: Useful for cleaning the skin before testing.

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

CGMs provide real-time glucose readings and are valuable in emergencies. Include:

CGM Sensors and Transmitters: Ensure you have spare sensors for your device.
Libre Systems: Freestyle Libre is an excellent CGM option.
Dexcom Devices: Dexcom CGMs are highly reliable.

Insulin Supplies

For those using insulin, having an adequate supply is critical:

Insulin Vials or Pens: Pack enough to last several days.
Syringes or Pen Needles: Include a sufficient supply of needles.
Insulin Pump Supplies: If you use an insulin pump, pack extra infusion sets, reservoirs, and batteries.

Omnipods

Omnipods are tubeless insulin delivery systems. Ensure you have:

Spare Pods: Pack extra Omnipods to last through the emergency.
PDM (Personal Diabetes Manager): Include spare batteries for your PDM.

Hypoglycemia Treatment

In case of low blood sugar, have fast-acting carbohydrates on hand:

Glucose Tablets or Gel: Quick and easy to consume.
Snacks: Pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars or juice boxes.

Medical Identification

In an emergency, it’s crucial that responders know you have diabetes:

Medical ID Bracelet or Necklace: Wear one at all times.
Emergency Contact Information: Include a list of contacts and your medical details.

Additional Supplies

Batteries and Chargers: For all your electronic devices.
First Aid Kit: Basic supplies for minor injuries.
Documentation: Keep copies of prescriptions and a log of your recent blood sugar levels.

Where to Buy & Sell Diabetic Supplies

To maintain your emergency kit, having a reliable source for diabetic supplies is essential. Here are some helpful resources:

Test Strip Search: A convenient platform to sell your extra diabetic test strips, CGMs, Libre systems, Dexcom products, and Omnipods. Visit Test Strip Search for more information.
Affodable Diabetic & Valley Rain Medical – They offer highly discounted diabetic test strips you could purchase, to make sure that you have an ample amount available for your kit. Visit Affordable Diabetic and Valley Rain Medical for more info.
American Diabetes Association: Offers resources and support for managing diabetes in emergencies. Visit diabetes.org for more details.
CDC Diabetes Page: Provides comprehensive information on diabetes management. Access it here.

Creating an emergency diabetes kit is a vital step in managing your condition effectively. By preparing in advance and keeping your kit stocked with essential supplies, you can ensure that you are ready for any situation. Remember to regularly check your kit and replenish any used or expired items.