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

Prevent drowning

When entering moving water, you are at risk for drowning, regardless of your ability to swim. Because those in vehicles are at greatest risk of drowning, it is important to comply with all hazard warnings on roadways and to avoid driving vehicles or heavy equipment into water of an unknown depth. NIOSH recommends that you avoid working alone and wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when working in or near flood waters.

Reduce risk of thermal stress

While cleaning up after the hurricane, you are at risk for developing health problems from working in hot or cold environments.

To reduce heat-related risks:

• Drink a glass of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes.
  
  
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  
  
• Work during the cooler hours of the day.

To reduce cold-related injuries when standing or working in water which is cooler than 75 F (24 C):

• Wear rubber boots.
  
  
• Ensure that clothing and boots have adequate insulation.
  
  
• Take frequent breaks out of the water.
  
  
• Change into dry clothing when possible.

Prevent fatigue-related injuries

Continued long hours of work, combined with exhaustion, can create a highly stressful situation during cleanup. People working on hurricane and flood cleanup can reduce their risks of injury and illness in several ways:

• Set priorities for cleanup tasks and pace the work. Avoid physical exhaustion.
  
  
• Resume a normal sleep schedule as quickly as possible.
  
  
• Be alert to emotional exhaustion or strain. Consult family members, friends or professionals for emotional support.

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).

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