RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif.-- As Tropical Storm Hilary makes landfall and with the potential for power outages, residents are encouraged to reach out to medically-fragile, homebound neighbors and family members to ensure their health and safety.

More than 47,000 Riverside County residents depend on caregivers through In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) to live safely at home. The IHSS Public Authority manages a public registry that pairs clients with a trusted in-home caregiver.

“The safety and care of our recipients is critical,” says David Dai, executive director of the IHSS Public Authority. “Riverside County Department of Public Social Services, alongside our Emergency Management Department, are working to provide loved ones and caregivers with the necessary information to best prepare homebound individuals for the possible impact of Hurricane Hilary.”

Medical equipment that is dependent on electrical power is an example of the critical needs of IHSS recipients, many of whom are elderly and require special care, Dai noted.

Since regular caregivers may be unable to travel to recipients due to road closures, flooding, and road conditions, Dai urges homebound individuals' friends, families, and neighbors to do regular home checks throughout the storm.

Dai urges homebound individuals' friends, families, and neighbors todo regular home checks throughout the storm.

If you suspectelder or dependent adult abuse or neglect, please call theAdult Protective Service’s24-hour hotlineat(800) 491-7123. For emergencies, please contact 911.

# # #