Public Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness Information
Being prepared to handle an emergency can be the difference between life and death. On airplanes, during the safety demonstration, it's usually said that everyone needs to put on their own oxygen mask first before trying to help others. Most emergencies are like that. The first step is to stay calm and manage any rising tide of panic. One way to manage panic is by having established plans for common types of emergencies.
Prevent Illness
The aftermath of a disaster can be a breeding ground for illness. Disruptions in water service or even a functioning sewage system can make it easy for bacteria and viruses to spread. Sometimes, the places people go to seek safety, like a storm shelter, can also become hot spots for shared illness. Storms can also cause the rapid spread of dangerous black mold. The most important thing to do in these situations is to wash your hands as often as possible. If that's not possible, use hand sanitizer. Keep living spaces clean and neat. When returning home, remember that it might need to be deep-cleaned and disinfected before it's safe to live in again. A lack of electricity often means that people turn to generators to power their homes or things like grills or camping stoves to keep at least one room warm. When improperly used, these items can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Another danger in the aftermath of a larger disaster is stray animals and wildlife. Bites can cause infections, and animals can also be carrying diseases caused by a lack of sanitation.
- Preventing Illness After a Disaster
- Preventing Illness After a Natural Disaster
- Returning Home After a Natural Disaster
- Disasters and Your Family: Be Prepared
Prevent Injury
Evacuation and dealing with the aftermath of natural disasters can be full of opportunities for someone to get seriously hurt. Never touch or go near downed power lines. If chemicals or dirty water get on the skin, rinse it off immediately. Make sure children, pets, and adults stay away from any fires. All tools should only be used by people who know how to safely operate them. In disasters involving lots of water, stay out of ditches and low-lying land: Flooding can happen in an instant. Also, stay out of buildings that could have been destabilized during the disaster.
- How to Prevent Injuries and Deaths Due to Natural Disasters
- Four Tips to Help You Stay Safe During a Natural Disaster
- Minimizing Postdisaster Fatalities
Wound Management
Wounds should be evaluated by a medical professional, but that's not always possible during a disaster. The first step is to examine the wound to get an idea about how deep and serious it is. Ask the wounded person about how much it hurts and if they have any other injuries. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding, and remove debris from around the wound. However, if something like a piece of wood, glass, or other object is embedded in the wound, don't remove it: Seek medical help immediately. Otherwise, disinfect the wound and cover it with a clean bandage. Keep water away from the wound if the water could be contaminated. The wound should be carefully watched for signs of infection.
- First Aid 101: How to Treat a Cut
- Nine Essential First Aid Tips for Wound Care
- How to Provide Effective First Aid to an Open Wound
- How to Apply a Dressing
Keep Food and Water Safe
Consuming contaminated food and water can cause serious illness. It's important to avoid using potentially unsafe water, even for activities like washing dishes or brushing teeth. If there's any question about how safe the tap water is, then the water should be boiled. However, if the water could have been exposed to chemicals, remember that boiling will not remove these chemicals. Many families keep stores of bottled water and shelf-stable food just for these situations. Food should be ready to eat with minimal if any, preparation. Keep a manual can opener with the canned goods. It's also a good idea to have disposable plates and silverware on hand.
- Food Safety in a Disaster or Emergency
- Food and Water in an Emergency
- Protect Food and Water During Hurricanes and Other Storms
- Emergency Food and Water Supplies
Extreme Heat
Extreme temperatures can cause major issues during disasters. Very hot temperatures can lead to heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses as well as cause dehydration and worsen other illnesses. The obese and people with underlying heart conditions also suffer more in the heat, as do heavily pregnant people. Staying hydrated is key to staying healthy. Also, stay out of the direct sun during the hottest parts of the day. It's also a good idea to wear loose-fitting clothing that allows the person's body to breathe and helps prevent overheating.
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