CIS wants to ensure that all employees and patients remain safe during an emergency. Now that hurricane season has begun, it is important to develop plans and preparations for your family. The American Red Cross recommends the following safety tips to prepare for a hurricane:
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Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit
- Gather emergency supplies including: emergency medications, nonperishable foods, a non-electric can opener, bottled water (at least three gallons per day per person), a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, extra clothes, important documents, cash and credit cards, a first aid kit and other items for infants, elderly or disabled family members and pets.
- Store supplies in a waterproof, easy-to-carry container, such as a plastic tub with handles.
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Prepare a Personal Evacuation Plan
- Identify an evacuation route ahead of time; discuss with family members.
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- In case of evacuation to a shelter, be sure to bring the disaster supplies kit, medications, extra clothing, pillows and blankets and other hygiene and comfort supplies.
- Make advance preparations for pets so you can bring them with you when you leave, but remember, due to health department regulations, pets aren't allowed in public shelters.
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Prepare for High Winds
- Measure windows and obtain shutters or cut plywood to cover each one.
- Remove diseased and damaged tree limbs well before a storm strikes.
- Strengthen garage doors with vertical support beams made from 2x4's and "L" brackets.
- Get professional help if needed.
The following links also provide a wealth of resources to help you and your family stay prepared. Be on the lookout for more hurricane information in the weeks to come.
National Hurricane Center
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/disaster_prevention.shtml
CDC Emergency Preparedness
http://www.cdc.gov/features/hurricanepreparedness/
Louisiana Governor's Office- Emergency Preparedness
http://getagameplan.org
Red Cross Safety Check List
http://www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/checklists/Hurricane.pdf
