Published: 18 November, 2025 Summer in Australia brings more bushfires, heatwaves, cyclones and storms. If you have diabetes, being ready for natural disasters is important. It helps you stay safe and healthy. Why planning ahead matters Natural disasters can change your daily life. They might cut power, block roads, or stop you from getting medicine and care. The physical and emotional stress that many people experience during emergencies can also make managing their blood glucose levels more challenging. Here’s how to prepare: Visit the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) webpage Diabetes and natural disasters or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 Download My diabetes plan for natural disasters – it’s easy to use and available in different languages Fill in your plan with your details, medications and health contacts Review your plan with your diabetes health professionals at least once a year or when your diabetes management changes Keep a copy in your emergency kit (see below), save it on your phone, and share it with family or friends. What to pack in your diabetes emergency kit Natural disasters can last for days or weeks. Pack supplies for at least two weeks in a waterproof container that is easy to carry. Your kit needs to meet your personal needs. Here are some important items: Your My diabetes emergency plan for natural disasters Your sick day plan and a letter from your GP A 14-day supply of your medicines Glucose monitoring supplies Diabetes equipment and spare parts Hypoglycaemia (low glucose) treatment such as glucose tablets, gel, jellybeans or canned soft drink. Bottled water Non-perishable carbohydrate food, like crackers, muesli bars and long-life milk Protective clothing Batteries, chargers and power banks. Only add insulin and any other medicines that need to stay cold just before you leave home. Set a reminder to regularly check your medication expiry dates and restock your emergency kit every three months. If you use an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor, ask your health professional about what to pack. Some of these items have product limits or short expiry dates. Staying safe during a natural disaster Emergencies can change your routine and daily life. You might: Eat at different times Have less food Be more or less active Sleep less Feel more stress. Here are some tips to help: Check your glucose levels more often Know how to adjust your insulin or medicines If you evacuate, tell people where you are and that you have diabetes Drink plenty of water, especially in heatwaves Store insulin safely and have a backup plan If you have type 1 diabetes, check for ketones and follow your sick day action plan levels are high Look after your mental health by staying connected with family, friends or your diabetes health professional. Keeping insulin cool If you can’t use a fridge to store insulin, try a cooler bag with four reusable cool packs or a cooling wallet. If you’re using ice packs or frozen peas, wrap it in a towel so your insulin doesn’t freeze. Don’t use insulin that has been frozen. Once opened, you can keep your insulin at room temperature (15–25 degrees) for up to 28 days. Keep it out of direct sunlight. If insulin gets too warm, do not use it and throw it away. After the disaster Getting back to normal can take time. You might sleep less, eat differently or feel low. These are normal reactions. Check in with your diabetes health professionals. Review your glucose levels, any problems, and how you’re feeling. Think about how your emergency plan worked. Update if needed. Restock your kit and add any items you missed. Be ready and stay calm Natural disasters are hard, but you don’t have to face them alone. By being prepared and asking for help, you can stay calm and safe and manage your diabetes – when things don’t go to plan.
