Show #391 Airing Sunday 6/17/07
Not so long ago, we were shivering while digging our cars out from the winter's snow. Now, it's summer storms and heat that we need to worry about. That's Cleveland. To make sure we can weather whatever weather comes our way, we've invited Robert Kucera, a well-"seasoned" volunteer for the American Red Cross and chairman of the disaster committee.
Question: Living in northeast Ohio, we know to be prepared for the winter. But we need to prepare for summer emergencies, too, right?
Answer: The American Red Cross advises everyone to have emergency supplies that consist of a 3-day supply of non-perishable food, drinking water (3 gallons per person) and a 3-day supply of medications.
Flooding and other emergencies may require that people evacuate their homes. It would be wise to have an Emergency Kit, or "GO Kit," as we call it. The kit should include a flashlight, spare batteries, a portable [wind-up] AM-FM radio, a First Aid Kit, a mechanical can opener, hygiene supplies [e.g.-toothpaste], blankets, and extra clothing and some non-perishable [nutritious] food and water.
Question: Let's talk about some common summer emergencies and how we can be prepared for them. First, let's look at windstorms.
Answer: As soon as you are notified of a windstorm, you should get everyone-pets included-in the house or shelter. "Batten Down the Hatches"-secure yard furniture and loose items.
Stay away from windows. Go to the basement if you have one, or to an interior area without windows, such as an interior hallway.
When a windstorm is reported, those with mobility problems who live on the upper floors of an apartment building without an emergency generator may consider using the elevator to go to the first floor and wait out the storm. If their building should lose electricity, they will be accessible to receive care and assistance.
Question: What about thunderstorms?
Answer: Listen to the radio for current conditions. Telephones with cords and metal piping can conduct electricity, so avoid phones and electrical appliances during a storm. Don't shower or bathe or be in contact with running water. Having the lights on is okay. Turn off the air conditioner and computers that don't have surge protectors, and unplug appliances to protect against power surges.
If you are outside and can hear the thunder, you are close enough to get struck by lightening. Get to a safe shelter quickly.
If in the woods, find cover under shorter trees.
If boating or swimming, get to a land shelter.If shelter is not near, go to a low-lying, open space away from trees, poles, or metal objects. Watch for flooding.
If someone is struck by lightening, have someone call 911, stay with the victim if possible, and start CPR if required.
Question: Both windstorms and thunderstorms can cause power outages. What safety measures should follow an outage?
Answer: Power outages may mean that power lines are down. Avoid downed wires. They may not look to be energized, but don't ever take that chance. Notify local Safety Forces. If a power line comes down on your car, don't try to drive away or exit your vehicle. Wait for help to arrive. Power lines have to be de-energized or removed from the area to exit your vehicle.
Don't touch metal fences or buildings. They too may be energized. Warn people if possible.
When power goes out, you may want to use a cooler with plenty of ice to save your refrigerated perishables. So plan ahead, know where you can purchase dry ice, perhaps keep less in freezer over summer. If the refrigerator is without power for 2-4 hours or more, discard refrigerated perishables. If the freezer is down for 24 hours, toss out all food items. When in doubt, throw it out.
Use flashlights, not candles!!! Put in key rooms.
Question: Finally, what concerns should we have during a heat emergency?
Answer: Prolonged periods of high temperatures with high humidity can cause a Heat Wave. Young children, elderly people, or people with health problems are the most vulnerable. In these conditions, people should drink a minimum of 6 to 8 glasses of water per day and, if doing heavy work, 2-4 glasses per hour.
Limit outdoor activities. Plan activities during the coolest hours of the day.
Wear light, loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.
Avoid direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can be 15 degrees higher than a shaded area in the same location.
Use a sun block with an "SPF" (Sun Protection Factor) greater than 15.
Take it easy!! Go to an air-conditioned room or a cool room at a library, movie, or mall. If you can't get ton an air-conditioned area, go to your basement. Use a fan that keeps the air moving to help evaporate sweat and cool the body.
Take a cool bath. It will help to reduce body temperature.
Question: What about our health during heat emergencies? What are signs that we should watch out for?
Answer: Heat cramps are the first sign that the body is having trouble with the heat. Find a cool, shady place and rest in a comfortable position, lightly stretching your muscles. Replenish your body fluids. Drink water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Alcohol depletes body fluids.
Heat exhaustion is caused by the depletion of fluids in your body. Blood flows to your skin, which reduces flow to vital organs. Your body can go into a shock. Symptoms are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, and may include headache or vomiting.
Get to a cool area. Cool the body and drink ˝ glass of water every 15 minutes unless vomiting.
If untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, where the body temperature can reach 105 degrees. This may cause brain damage or death. Call 911 immediately. Cool the victim quickly. Soak him or her with cool water or wrap them in cool towels. Keep the victim lying down and stay with them until help arrives.
Stay safe this summer with Bob's tips. For more information, give the American Red Cross a call. My thanks to Bob Kucera.
