In this Article

• Introduction to hurricane preparation
• What are hurricane aftermath health concerns?
• How can I store food safely?
• How can I make sure our water is safe?
• How do I perform first aid for injuries?
• How should I clean mold from my house?
• How can I prevent injuries after a hurricane?
• Wear protective gear
• Beware of electrical hazards
• Avoid carbon monoxide
• Prevent musculoskeletal injuries
• Beware of structural instability
• Avoid hazardous materials
• Be prepared for fires
• Prevent drowning
• Reduce the risk of thermal stress
• Prevent fatigue-related injuries
• What can I do to cope with stress after a hurricane?
• How do I deal with wild and domestic animals in a disaster?
• Hurricane Preparedness Glossary
• Hurricane Preparedness Index

Beware of electrical hazards

• If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits and electrical equipment, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician.
  
  
• Never enter flooded areas or touch electrical equipment if the ground is wet, unless you are certain that the power is off. NEVER handle a downed power line.
  
  
• When using gasoline and diesel generators to supply power to a building, switch the main breaker or fuse on the service panel to the "off" position prior to starting the generator.
  
  
• If clearing or other work must be performed near a downed power line, contact the utility company to discuss de-energizing and grounding or shielding of power lines. Extreme caution is necessary when moving ladders and other equipment near overhead power lines to avoid inadvertent contact.

Avoid carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is poisonous to breathe. During flood cleanup, operate all gasoline-powered devices such as pumps, generators, and pressure washers outdoors and never bring them indoors. This will help to ensure your safety from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevent musculoskeletal injuries

Special attention is needed to avoid back injuries associated with manual lifting and handling of debris and building materials.

To help prevent injury:

• Use teams of two or more to move bulky objects.
  
  
• Avoid lifting any material that weighs more than 50 pounds (per person)
  
  
• Use proper automated-assist lifting devices

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Anxiety - Read about anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder, GAD) causes, physical symptoms and signs, medications and treatment. Learn about symptoms (worry, fear) and other types of anxiety disorders.
• Stress - Read about stress symptoms, signs, causes and treatment. Get information on stress management tips, the effects on the body and stress types (teen, job, PTSD).
• Dehydration - Read about dehydration (definition: excessive water loss) in children, treatment, symptoms (thirst, dry mouth, dark urine) and causes (vomiting, diarrhea).

Read more Hurricane Preparedness related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Boomers Doomed to Disability?
• Gender Divorce Gap After Illness Strikes
• Cigarette Smoking's Decline Levels Off
• 22 Million Cases of Swine Flu in U.S.