Hospital Highlights - Nov. 5, 2009

Tips to Prepare for Emergencies

As we watch the news today, the possibility of public health emergencies rising in the U.S. is apparent.

It is concerning to many people in the wake of recent hurricanes, tsunamis, acts of terrorism and the threat of pandemic influenza. Though some people feel it is impossible to be prepared for unexpected events, the truth is that preparation helps people deal with disasters more effectively when they do occur.

Here are a few tips you can consider when preparing for unknown emergencies. Here are a few thoughts:

* Gather emergency supplies: By taking time now to prepare emergency water supplies, food supplies, and a disaster supplies kit, you can provide for your entire family.

* Develop a Family Disaster Plan: Families can cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team.

* Be informed: learn the “how to shelter in place “ section in the American Red Cross resource. Of particular interest is the “Understand quarantine and isolation.” Understand when quarantine and isolation may be called for, what they are, and how they work.

* Maintain a healthy state of mind

To research more on the above, go to http://www.bt.cdc.gov/preparedness and you can investigate these topics more in depth. Let’s all stay safe and healthy.

Jon Davis,

administrator

WHMC