As we keep an eye on the upcoming hurricane, being prepared – and safe – is important.
Preparing for the arrival of severe weather as well as cleaning up after a storm can sometimes pose safety risks.
“The safety of the community is one of our utmost concerns during a severe weather event,” said Daniel Haight, MD, Lakeland Regional Health Vice President of Community Health. “We have seen carbon monoxide deaths, injuries and burns in our Medical Center as a result of accidents and misuse following past storms.”
Lakeland Regional Health offers the following safety tips that are useful during and after a severe storm:
- Generators: Never run a generator in an enclosed space or inside your home or garage. Although you may think an open garage door is safe, someone else may accidentally shut the door.
- Minimize Water Use: To prevent and reduce the risk of sewer system backups in your home, residents should minimize water use. This includes the use of dishwashers, sinks, washing machines, showers and toilets (e.g. only flush solid waste but reduce flushing of urine).
- Using Open Flames: Never leave an open flame or trash fire unattended or near any flammable materials. If you have small children or pets, exercise caution when using candles to light your home.
- Gas Lines: Report the smell of gas (i.e. “rotten egg”) by calling 9-1-1, open windows and safely evacuate the area
- Downed Power Lines: Look for downed power lines in your area, and remember they may be concealed by flood waters or fallen debris. Always use caution when leaving your home. Assume that any downed power line is live and potentially deadly.
- Standing Water: Keep out of standing water. It is impossible to know how deep the water is, or if dangerous debris is hidden beneath the surface. All standing water is considered dirty and contaminated with germs. Avoid contact with your mouth and skin, especially if you have any skin breaks. Wash with soap and clean water after exposure. Standing water may contain snakes and other wild animals in distress. Bites need immediate medical attention.
- Drinking Water: If your drinking water well is underwater, assume it may be contaminated until the water recedes and you complete the decontamination process. Until then, boil water for one minute to ensure safety
- Traffic Lights: If a traffic light is out or possible malfunctioning, treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Always drive with caution when leaving your home and only drive when absolutely necessary.
- Trees: Tree limbs are heavier and more dangerous than they appear when cutting down damaged trees. Chainsaws should only be used if in good working order and by those familiar with the potential dangers.
If there is an emergency situation, Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center operates 24/7 as usual.