Golden Illumination has information on:
surviving hurricanes
information on hurricanes
hurricanes and emergency preparedness.

As Hurricane Irene dies out, the worst may be over for some of us – and for others, it may just be the beginning. A host of health issues follow the trail of natural disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons.

When cleaning up after flooded sections of the home, be sure to dry and disinfect sections and items to prevent growth of bacteria, viruses, mold and mildew. These can trigger illnesses in some people or worsen an existing condition in others. After a flood, tap water may become contaminated so it’s advisable to use only bottled water for drinking and cooking.

If you’ve lost power in your home and are using a generator, be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is dangerous because it is hard to detect – it’s both odorless and colorless and it can cause illness or death almost immediately. Don’t use power generators anywhere inside your home and keep it away from doors and windows when placing it outdoors. Your home should already have a CO alarm. If the detector goes off, leave immediately and call 911. See your doctor if you experience dizziness, nausea, or light-headedness while using a generator.

Floodwater may be contaminated with all kinds of waste material, including feces and other biological contaminants, toxic chemicals and other industrial wastes. If sewage water overflows into your property or vicinity, do not come into contact with it. Be sure to wear rubber boots and plastic gloves when cleaning up after water damage.

Mosquitoes thrive in moist conditions and they can carry communicable diseases like West Nile virus – so protect yourself and loved ones with a natural insect repellent or use citronella candles when staying outdoors in the yard or deck. Drain all excess water from containers, flowerpots and buckets outside your home – stagnant water creates a lounge area for mosquitoes and other insects.

If you’ve stayed in a shelter due to a natural disaster, you come in close contact with a large group of people. You’re more likely to catch a cold or other contagious illness from being in such close quarters with others. Some experience digestive upsets, as well as respiratory problems after being in a shelter.

The hurricane that pummels our towns also pounds on our immune system by taking its toll on our mental and emotional states. The stress of having to evacuate quickly, stay in a shelter with strangers, the possibility of losing a home, thoughts of repairing damage and the burdens of the costs in an already fragile financial situation – these can really weigh down on a person’s well-being. Worst of all, facing the loss of loved ones, and even injury to families and friends – certainly cause a great deal of anxiety. The residents of New Orleans still face long-term health effects after Hurricane Katrina. Certain health issues have been linked to the event – from an increase in staph infections and asthma, to environmental toxicity, including lead exposure, miscarriages, and high blood pressure. It’s common to go into panic mode during an emergency and this makes it more critical to train and prepare your household in case one strikes.

Hurricane Irene gave plenty of warning and days to prepare, however, some disasters happen suddenly, leaving no room to prepare. So, don’t wait for another emergency to happen: make a plan, have a bag of supplies already in hand, conduct drills and always be ready. On top of it all, keep your body healthy and strong and your mind alert and sound, and you’ll likely endure whatever storm may come your way.