Sandy is being called a “once in a generation” storm that’s unfortunately living up to its title.
Millions are without power, and may be for some time to come. Others have evacuated, or will, escaping the torrential rains and winds that have gusted up to 90 miles per hour.
For those in the storm areas, and those watching and waiting from afar, here are some important safety tips…
* How do I contact someone in the storm area? Try to call or text first from your cell since landlines will be down. If that doesn’t work and you’re trying to contact someone in the area who may be housebound or evacuated, contact FEMA (800-621-FEMA) or the American Red Cross (800-RED-CROSS). Both have Internet locators where people in the storm areas can register their names to let their loved one(s) know where they are, and if they are safe.
* Once the power is out, how long will refrigerated foods last? Refrigerated foods, once the power is off, will stay cold for about four to six hours. To increase the time, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. If Freezer is full and closed it can keep cold up to 48 hours. If its half full then 24 hours.
* What foods should be eaten first, after power is off? Start by eating leftovers, meat, poultry, and any foods with milk, cream, soft cheese, or sour cream. Fruits that were frozen can be eaten if they still taste and smell good. Vegetables that are completely thawed shouldn’t be eaten, since bacteria multiply quickly.If meat or poultry has thawed and has been warmer than 40 degrees F for two hours discard it.
* What about water? If we run out, what supplies can we tap? Use ice, soft drinks, and fruit juices as water substitutes. Remember older adults, nursing mothers, and children need more water than others.Check hidden sources of water: the hot water tank, water in the plumbing, the reservoir toilet tank (not the bowl). These water supplies need to be disinfected, however by boiling and cooling.
* What precautions do I need to take for medications that need refrigeration, such as insulin or reconstituted drugs? If power has been out for a lengthy period, thrown them out. However, if you have no way to obtain new supplies and the medicine is crucial, such as insulin, continue to take it until you can get fresh supplies.
* What about the risk of hypothermia, the dangerous drop in body temperature? If you are without heat and the temperature drops, first close off rooms you don’t need.
If you have a fireplace, or wood stove, be sure it is adequately vented to the outdoors. Don’t use propane in the house to stay warm.
Dress in layers. Use blankets. Wear a hat to keep body heat up. Look out for elderly family members and infants follow these measures. They are more vulnerable to hypothermia.
* If water gets into my house, how do I avoid electrocution? If flooding is likely, turn off natural gas and electricity.
* Is it OK to use a portable generator? Generators should only be operated outdoors, as carbon monoxide can build up and cause lethal poisoning if used indoors
* When evacuating, how can I best stay safe in a car? Be on the lookout for live wires in the roads and do not drive over them. Bypass streets submerged in water. Your car could be carried away, even with what looks like low water levels. Drive SLOW and don’t forget if your car becomes trapped in the water, abandon it if possible.
For more info log on to http://www.webmd.com/news/riding-out-the-storm-safely?
