Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Read a Book
Evacuation Guidelines
From FEMA'S "Are You Ready--An In-Depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness"
Evacuations are more common than people realize. People living in coastal areas and in the Gulf states are old pro's at evacuation, but here in SW Washington we don't have the constant threat of tsunami or hurricane issues. However, that's no reason to get complacent.
We have our fair share of potential hazards that might require evacuation: flood (remember 96 and 08?), wildfire (residents in the Ostrander area had to evacuate during the Ball Park Fire in 98), landslide (Aldercrest), major chemical release (hello large industrial area, how are you today?), pipeline hazards, etc.
Here are some helpful tips for evacuation preparation:
* Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. (most of our events are fairly fast moving, so I'd say don't let your tank get below a 1/4. I'm guilty of running on fumes, but I'm resolving to stop doing that right now! Gas stations may be closed during emergencies or unable to pump gas during an electrical outage.
* Make transportation arrangements with friends or neighbors if you do not own a car.
* Listen to a radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
* Gather your family and go if you are instructed to evacuate immediately.
* Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
* Be alert for washed out roads and bridges. Do NOT drive in flooded areas.
* Stay away from downed power lines.
* If there is a risk of flooding or power outage, unplug electrical equipment and small appliances.
* Let others know where you are going.
Evacuations are more common than people realize. People living in coastal areas and in the Gulf states are old pro's at evacuation, but here in SW Washington we don't have the constant threat of tsunami or hurricane issues. However, that's no reason to get complacent.
We have our fair share of potential hazards that might require evacuation: flood (remember 96 and 08?), wildfire (residents in the Ostrander area had to evacuate during the Ball Park Fire in 98), landslide (Aldercrest), major chemical release (hello large industrial area, how are you today?), pipeline hazards, etc.
Here are some helpful tips for evacuation preparation:
* Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. (most of our events are fairly fast moving, so I'd say don't let your tank get below a 1/4. I'm guilty of running on fumes, but I'm resolving to stop doing that right now! Gas stations may be closed during emergencies or unable to pump gas during an electrical outage.
* Make transportation arrangements with friends or neighbors if you do not own a car.
* Listen to a radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
* Gather your family and go if you are instructed to evacuate immediately.
* Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
* Be alert for washed out roads and bridges. Do NOT drive in flooded areas.
* Stay away from downed power lines.
* If there is a risk of flooding or power outage, unplug electrical equipment and small appliances.
* Let others know where you are going.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Disaster Preparedness Tips from the Alzheimer's Association
From www.alz.org
Advance preparations
• If your loved one lives in a residential facility, find out about its disaster and evacuation plans. Ask if you will be responsible for evacuating your loved one.
• Whether your loved one lives with you, or you are a long-distance caregiver, make sure evacuation plans include his or her specific needs. Check your local Alzheimer’s Association and other organizations that provide services for the elderly to see if help is available.
• Prepare an emergency kit (see below for suggestions).
• Enroll in MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®, a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia that wander or who have a medical emergency. Call toll-free at 1.888.572.8566 or visit www.alz.org. • If you are already enrolled in MedicAlert + Safe Return, make sure your information is up to date.
If you know a pending disaster is about to occur:
• Get yourself and the person with Alzheimer’s to a safe place.
• If the need to evacuate is likely, do not delay. Try to leave as early as possible to minimize long delays in heavy traffic.
• Alert others (family, friends, medical personnel) that you are changing locations, and give them your contact information. Contact them regularly as you move.
• Be sure there are people other than the primary caregiver who have copies of the person with dementia’s medical history, medications, physician information and family contacts.
• Purchase extra medications.
• If your loved one uses oxygen, be sure to obtain portable tanks.
Emergency kit
Consider preparing an emergency kit in advance. Keep it in a watertight container and store it in an easily accessible location. Your emergency kit might include:
• Easy on/off clothes (a couple of sets).
• Supplies of medication (or minimally, a list of medications with dosages).
• Velcro shoes/sneakers.
• A spare pair of eyeglasses.
• Incontinence products.
• Extra identification items for the person, such as an ID bracelet and clothing tags.
• Copies of legal documents, such as a power of attorney.
• Copies of medical documents that indicate the individual’s condition and current medications.
• Copies of insurance and Social Security cards.
• Use waterproof bags to hold medications and documents.
• Physician’s name, address and phone numbers (including cell phone).
• Recent picture of the person with dementia.
• Hand lotion or other items to promote comfort.
• Bottled water.
• Favorite items or foods. Liquid meals.
• Pillow, toy or something else to hug.
• Alzheimer’s Association and MedicAlert + Safe Return phone numbers.
During an evacuation people with dementia are especially vulnerable to chaos and emotional trauma. They have a limited ability to understand what is happening, and they may forget what they have been told about the disaster. Be alert to potential reactions that may result from changes in routine, traveling or new environments.
• When appropriate, inform others (hotel or shelter staff, family members, airline attendants) that your loved one has dementia and may not understand what is happening.
• Do not leave the person alone. It only takes a few minutes to wander away and get lost.
• Changes in routine, traveling and new environments can cause: o Agitation o Wandering o Increase in behavioral symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions and sleep disturbance.
• Do your best to remain calm. The person with dementia will respond to the emotional tone you set. Tips for preventing agitation Reassure the person. Hold hands or put your arm on his or her shoulder. Say things are going to be fine.
• Find outlets for anxious energy. Take a walk together or engage the person in simple tasks. • Redirect the person’s attention if he or she becomes upset.
• Move the person to a safer or quieter place, if possible. Limit stimulation.
• Make sure the person takes medications as scheduled.
• Try to schedule regular meals and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Avoid elaborate or detailed explanations. Provide information using concrete terms. Follow brief explanations with reassurance.
• Be prepared to provide additional assistance with all activities of daily living.
• Pay attention to cues that the person may be overwhelmed (fidgeting, pacing).
• Remind the person that he or she is in the right place. Helpful hints during an episode of agitation
• Approach the person from the front and use his or her name.
• Use calm, positive statements and a patient, low-pitched voice. Reassure.
• Respond to the emotions being expressed rather than the content of the words. For example, say, “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
• Don’t argue with the person or try to correct. Instead, affirm his or her experience, reassure and try to divert attention. For example, “The noise in this shelter is frightening. Let’s see if we can find a quieter spot. Let’s look at your photo book together.”
• Take care of yourself by finding a good listener to hear your thoughts and feelings about the event.
Advance preparations
• If your loved one lives in a residential facility, find out about its disaster and evacuation plans. Ask if you will be responsible for evacuating your loved one.
• Whether your loved one lives with you, or you are a long-distance caregiver, make sure evacuation plans include his or her specific needs. Check your local Alzheimer’s Association and other organizations that provide services for the elderly to see if help is available.
• Prepare an emergency kit (see below for suggestions).
• Enroll in MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®, a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia that wander or who have a medical emergency. Call toll-free at 1.888.572.8566 or visit www.alz.org. • If you are already enrolled in MedicAlert + Safe Return, make sure your information is up to date.
If you know a pending disaster is about to occur:
• Get yourself and the person with Alzheimer’s to a safe place.
• If the need to evacuate is likely, do not delay. Try to leave as early as possible to minimize long delays in heavy traffic.
• Alert others (family, friends, medical personnel) that you are changing locations, and give them your contact information. Contact them regularly as you move.
• Be sure there are people other than the primary caregiver who have copies of the person with dementia’s medical history, medications, physician information and family contacts.
• Purchase extra medications.
• If your loved one uses oxygen, be sure to obtain portable tanks.
Emergency kit
Consider preparing an emergency kit in advance. Keep it in a watertight container and store it in an easily accessible location. Your emergency kit might include:
• Easy on/off clothes (a couple of sets).
• Supplies of medication (or minimally, a list of medications with dosages).
• Velcro shoes/sneakers.
• A spare pair of eyeglasses.
• Incontinence products.
• Extra identification items for the person, such as an ID bracelet and clothing tags.
• Copies of legal documents, such as a power of attorney.
• Copies of medical documents that indicate the individual’s condition and current medications.
• Copies of insurance and Social Security cards.
• Use waterproof bags to hold medications and documents.
• Physician’s name, address and phone numbers (including cell phone).
• Recent picture of the person with dementia.
• Hand lotion or other items to promote comfort.
• Bottled water.
• Favorite items or foods. Liquid meals.
• Pillow, toy or something else to hug.
• Alzheimer’s Association and MedicAlert + Safe Return phone numbers.
During an evacuation people with dementia are especially vulnerable to chaos and emotional trauma. They have a limited ability to understand what is happening, and they may forget what they have been told about the disaster. Be alert to potential reactions that may result from changes in routine, traveling or new environments.
• When appropriate, inform others (hotel or shelter staff, family members, airline attendants) that your loved one has dementia and may not understand what is happening.
• Do not leave the person alone. It only takes a few minutes to wander away and get lost.
• Changes in routine, traveling and new environments can cause: o Agitation o Wandering o Increase in behavioral symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions and sleep disturbance.
• Do your best to remain calm. The person with dementia will respond to the emotional tone you set. Tips for preventing agitation Reassure the person. Hold hands or put your arm on his or her shoulder. Say things are going to be fine.
• Find outlets for anxious energy. Take a walk together or engage the person in simple tasks. • Redirect the person’s attention if he or she becomes upset.
• Move the person to a safer or quieter place, if possible. Limit stimulation.
• Make sure the person takes medications as scheduled.
• Try to schedule regular meals and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Avoid elaborate or detailed explanations. Provide information using concrete terms. Follow brief explanations with reassurance.
• Be prepared to provide additional assistance with all activities of daily living.
• Pay attention to cues that the person may be overwhelmed (fidgeting, pacing).
• Remind the person that he or she is in the right place. Helpful hints during an episode of agitation
• Approach the person from the front and use his or her name.
• Use calm, positive statements and a patient, low-pitched voice. Reassure.
• Respond to the emotions being expressed rather than the content of the words. For example, say, “You’re frightened and want to go home. It’s ok. I’m right here with you.”
• Don’t argue with the person or try to correct. Instead, affirm his or her experience, reassure and try to divert attention. For example, “The noise in this shelter is frightening. Let’s see if we can find a quieter spot. Let’s look at your photo book together.”
• Take care of yourself by finding a good listener to hear your thoughts and feelings about the event.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Preparedness for Dialysis Patients
It is critical that people receiving dialysis treatment are prepared for severe weather and disaster. The following link is a great resource for disaster preparedness information specifically for people on dialysis: https://www.kidney.org/help/
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Building a Rain Barrel
On November 14 at 6:00 pm, Cowlitz County Master Gardener Jon Griffin will discuss the benefits using rain barrels. Participants will take home a rain barrel from the class. Jon will discuss how to get started, what to look for when buying a suitable barrel and how to construct a system that will make economic and environmental sense. Cost of the class is $50.00 per barrel. Additional rain barrels can be purchased at $40.00. You must pre-register by November 11. The class will be held for in the Agricultural Building located on the Cowlitz County fairgrounds in Longview. The workshop is sponsored by Washington State University Extension Master Gardeners. For more information, contact Gary Fredricks at 577-3014 Ext 3 or garyf@wsu.edu. Learn how you can water off the meter which conserves of one of our most precious resources and leaves more cash in your pocket.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Power Outage Tips
These tips are courtesy of State of Hawaii Department of Health:
* If you anticipate the electricity going out, set your refrigerator to the coldest temperature possible beforehand, so foods will last longer after the power outage.
* Food that is in the refrigerator, such as milk, sour cream and yogurt should be eaten first since it will spoil most quickly.
* Food that is in the freezer, such as frozen meats that can be grilled, should be eaten next. Food in a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer will stay frozen for approximately 12 hours, while food in a top or bottom mount freezer may remain frozen for up to 24 hours. Items in a separate freezer may remain frozen for 48-72 hours.
* A grill may be used to cook food, but should never be used inside the home.
* Canned good and dried foods are non-perishables but should be stored in a cool, dry place, with a note about the purchase date of the product. These foods should be eaten last, after the perishable foods are gone or have spoiled. Canned goods should be eaten within 2 hours of opening.
* Low-sodium food is a good investment, as salt will make you thirsty. If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, rinse all canned foods thoroughly before eating. Salt, however, is important in the daily diet.
* Most fruits and vegetables hold their quality at room temperature for several days.
* Water is extremely important and can be used not only for drinking, but also for rehydrating dried foods, cooking, brushing teeth, and for sanitation. At least a gallon of water per person per day (plus extra for pets) is necessary.
* If you have special dietary needs, consult with your doctor to make sure you have the recommended supplies in case of an emergency.
* Paper plates, cups, napkins, and plastic utensils are useful in an emergency, as they can simply be discarded rather than needing to be washed.
* Experts recommend at least 5-7 days of food be kept on hand if you are sheltering in place.
* If you anticipate the electricity going out, set your refrigerator to the coldest temperature possible beforehand, so foods will last longer after the power outage.
* Food that is in the refrigerator, such as milk, sour cream and yogurt should be eaten first since it will spoil most quickly.
* Food that is in the freezer, such as frozen meats that can be grilled, should be eaten next. Food in a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer will stay frozen for approximately 12 hours, while food in a top or bottom mount freezer may remain frozen for up to 24 hours. Items in a separate freezer may remain frozen for 48-72 hours.
* A grill may be used to cook food, but should never be used inside the home.
* Canned good and dried foods are non-perishables but should be stored in a cool, dry place, with a note about the purchase date of the product. These foods should be eaten last, after the perishable foods are gone or have spoiled. Canned goods should be eaten within 2 hours of opening.
* Low-sodium food is a good investment, as salt will make you thirsty. If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, rinse all canned foods thoroughly before eating. Salt, however, is important in the daily diet.
* Most fruits and vegetables hold their quality at room temperature for several days.
* Water is extremely important and can be used not only for drinking, but also for rehydrating dried foods, cooking, brushing teeth, and for sanitation. At least a gallon of water per person per day (plus extra for pets) is necessary.
* If you have special dietary needs, consult with your doctor to make sure you have the recommended supplies in case of an emergency.
* Paper plates, cups, napkins, and plastic utensils are useful in an emergency, as they can simply be discarded rather than needing to be washed.
* Experts recommend at least 5-7 days of food be kept on hand if you are sheltering in place.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Carbon Monoxide Safety
When power outages occur after severe weather such, using alternative sources of power can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in your home and poison your family. CO is a colorless, odorless gas created by burning fuel when using portable generators, gas ranges, burning wood or by running your car.
While hundreds of people die in the U.S. each year from accidental CO poisoning, this tragedy can be prevented. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector in your home, install one as soon as possible and check it every six months.
You should also follow these safety tips: • Do not run your car inside a garage that is attached to your home, even if the garage door is open to the outside; • Have your heating system, water heater and other gas, oil or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician each year; and • Never heat your house with a gas oven. Since you can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, it is important to recognize the most common symptoms of CO poisoning. If you think you are experiencing CO poisoning, you should get fresh air and seek medical attention immediately!
While hundreds of people die in the U.S. each year from accidental CO poisoning, this tragedy can be prevented. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO detector in your home, install one as soon as possible and check it every six months.
You should also follow these safety tips: • Do not run your car inside a garage that is attached to your home, even if the garage door is open to the outside; • Have your heating system, water heater and other gas, oil or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician each year; and • Never heat your house with a gas oven. Since you can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, it is important to recognize the most common symptoms of CO poisoning. If you think you are experiencing CO poisoning, you should get fresh air and seek medical attention immediately!
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