Every year, Texans brace themselves for hurricane season June 1 – November 30. Even if you don’t live in the Gulf Coast Region, the impact of hurricanes can be far-reaching. If it seems like many of the recent hurricanes (including Katrina, Rita, Ike, and Harvey) to impact the Gulf Coast Region and Texas have occurred in September, that’s because the climatological peak of activity occurs around September 10 each year.
Each September, the US government promotes a public awareness campaign during National Preparedness Month (NPM) to remind us that disasters DO happen – and we must all prepare ourselves before they occur. This year’s theme is, “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.” This blog will focus on things you can do to keep you and your family healthy during and after a disaster.
Personal health:
- Set aside a supply of non-perishable foods for several days for each member of your family at the beginning of hurricane season. Choose items that will not require refrigeration and can be eaten even if there is no access to a stove or oven.
- Set aside plenty of water for each family member as well.
- Create a place for medicines, drugs, and medical devices to be kept safe and dry. Set aside enough for a while in case replacements are not readily available. Include a first-aid kit in your stash of supplies. If drugs need to be reconstituted, include an adequate supply of purified or bottled water. Include an extra pair of glasses if you’re a glasses or contacts wearer. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of prescriptions.
Food and Water Safety: One of the biggest health concerns may occur after a hurricane or another disaster has passed and power outages continue for hours, days, or even weeks. Access to clean water may become compromised and sewage systems may allow contamination to occur. In addition, storms that produce large amounts of rainfall may leave behind warm, shallow pools of water which are excellent places for mosquitoes to breed and potentially spread disease.