Each year, an average of eleven tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, with approximately six of these becoming hurricanes.
Though many of these storms remain over the ocean and never impact the United States coastline, in an average three-year period roughly five hurricanes strike the US Coast killing between 50 and 100 people.
Because hurricanes affect US Coastlines from Texas to Maine and hurricane season runs June 1st through November 30th, being prepared is extremely important. Hurricane preparedness minimizes the impact a storm can have on property and individuals during a storm.
The first step you can take to prepare for a hurricane is to create a Disaster Supply Kit for you and your family, which should be checked and updated at the beginning of each hurricane season. This kit should include: a gallon of water per person for 3-7 days, enough nonperishable food for 3-7 days,clothing and rain gear, toiletries, flashlights, a battery operated radio, cash and credit cards, a first aid kit including necessary prescription drugs, batteries,important documents in a waterproof container including, Social Security cards, bank account numbers, medical records and birth certificates and specialty items for babies, the elderly and pets.
Second, create a Family Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, where you will meet and what you will do in case of an emergency.
Third, be informed. Keep your eye on the news, weather and any National Weather Center warnings. When a Hurricane Watch is issued, this means there is a possibility of experiencing hurricane conditions within 36 hours where as a Hurricane Warning means sustained winds of at least 74 mph should be expected within 24 hours or less.
Before a hurricane strikes:
Know whether you live in a flood zone and whether your home is susceptible to storm surge, flooding and high wind.
Map out your closest evacuation route.
Keep your vehicle’s gas tank as full as possible at all times.
Prepare your home and business for storm conditions by bringing in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, covering windows with plywood, etc.
By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster. Marion Regional Healthcare System encourages you to stay prepared, safe and healthy throughout the 2009 Hurricane Season.
Vital Stats is a weekly health column provided by the doctors and staff of Marion Regional Healthcare System.
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