24/7 Emergency ServiceWinter Storm Damage...Cape Cod & The Islands Are We Ready for 2016?
10/19/2015 (Permalink)
Don’t get caught without an emergency response profile to help with winter storm damage.
Winter storm damage never happens at a convenient time. Storms can range from a blissful snowfall to an extreme storm and we learned that the hard way during the winter season of 2015.
Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. If a big storm is coming be prepared…fill your required prescriptions, gas tanks and your pockets with cash.
Seriously, baby its cold outside and that’s why it’s important for families to get ready now. Before we know it winter will be here and we should take the time to create an emergency plan that includes enough food, water and supplies to last at least three days.
The biggest concern is that the electricity can be out for days as experienced during the winter season of 2014. Many areas did not have power for up to five days. And lastly, communication. How will you learn about what is going on in your community, where you can go for help or shelter or to learn what the plan is for the local authorities to help the community to recover? If there is no power you won’t be able to listen to the television or radio and the battery in your cell phone will not be able to be charged! Having a plan in place puts you in the driver’s seat!
Before winter storm damage happens gather basic items that would be needed if you were house bound during a bad storm.
- One gallon of drinking water per person
- Non-perishable food (Canned, dried, nuts & protein bars)
- First aid kit
- Prescriptions and medications
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Feminine hygiene supplies
- Garbage bags
- Flashlights and batteries
- Hand Sanitizer in liquid form and towelette
- Blankets and Sleeping bags
- Matches
- Firewood
- Propane gas for grills
- Rock salt and Sand
- Shovels or snow Removal Equipment
- Candles
- Warm clothing
During the winter storm damage you should stay indoors. When you do venture outside be careful when walking on icy driveways and walkways. Avoiding overexertion when shoveling snow is key to staying safe. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. Make sure you take breaks to rest and when possible push the snow instead of lifting or lift lighter loads. You will want to keep dry and change your wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Did you know that wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly?
Important signs of severe health risks during a winter storm
What to Do: Cover exposed skin, but do not rub the affected area in an attempt to warm it up. Seek medical help immediately.
What to Do: If symptoms of hypothermia are detected take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°, seek medical attention immediately. Get the victim to a warm location. Remove wet clothing. Warm the center of the body first by wrapping the person in blankets or putting on dry clothing. Give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Seek medical help immediately.
After every winter storm restock your emergency supplies to be ready in case another storm hits.