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Stay Healthy Before, During & After A Hurricane

(CBS4.com) FIRST AID KIT:
A basic first aid kit for hurricanes should include the following:
  1. Sterile gauze
  2. Bandages of various sizes
  3. Antiseptic Spray
  4. Burn Spray
  5. Mosquito Repellant
  6. Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) 25mg Tablets for allergic reactions
  7. Antibiotic Ointment: For cuts and scrapes
  8. Over the counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen, Aspirin, and Tylenol
  9. Bandage Tape
  10. Alcohol swabs/Alcohol wipes
  11. Lip Baum
  12. SPK Sunscreen
  13. Scissors, tweezers
  14. Thermometer
  15. Ice pack
  16. Clean or purified water
Please remember many injuries occur while preparing for a storm, or cleaning up the aftermath of a storm. Use power tools, generators and other devices with caution. Always use thick work gloves to put up hurricane shutters and take them down.

SPECIAL NEEDS:
If you are elderly, frail, disabled or have a special medical need and are concerned about your sheltering plan, or if you want the latest information on shelter modifications for individuals with disabilities or special needs, contact Broward County Elderly and Veterans Services Division at 954-537-2888 or TTY 954-537-2882.

Broward County Transit's Paratransit Services coordinates transportation for residents with disabilities. Call 954-537-2888 or TTY 954-537-2882

Broward County Special Needs Shelters Information
Miami-Dade County Special Needs Shelters Information
          Or call 305-468-5400

CDC HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST:

Before the storm:

  • If evacuating, pack an emergency supply kit with food, bottled water, prescription medicines, and important documents.
  • If you plan to drive, fill your gas tank as soon as possible.
  • Turn off gas, electricity, and water, and disconnect appliances before leaving.
  • Take steps to ensure your pets' safety during the storm.
  • Follow designated evacuation routes for your area, and expect heavy traffic.

If you stay home during the storm:

  • Pack an emergency supply kit with necessities such as food, bottled water, and prescription medicines to last from three to five days.
  • Determine the best escape routes from your home, and make sure that everyone in your house is able to follow the escape plan.
  • Look for escape routes from upper levels of the house, in case of flooding.
  • Do not go outside, even if the weather seems calm. Wait for local authorities to tell you it is safe to go outside.
  • If your home is flooded or damaged, move to a neighbor's or a local shelter.

After the storm:

  • Do not drive through flooded roads, as cars can be swept away or lose power.
  • Never touch a downed power line or anything in contact with one.
  • Turn off electrical power when there are hazards around your home such as standing water, fallen power lines, or gas leaks.
  • Listen to announcements in local media (radio, television or newspaper) to find out if it's safe to use tap water, and follow instructions regarding water.
  • If you are not sure if water is safe to use, boil water before you use it for anything, including brushing teeth, cooking, drinking, or bathing.
  • Throw away any food that may have been touched by floodwater.
  • Use battery-powered lanterns and flashlights, instead of candles, to prevent fires.
  • Stoves, generators, lanterns, and gas ranges release dangerous carbon monoxide gas and should always be used outdoors, far away from windows, doors and vents.

For more information, click here or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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