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Planning for your health during a hurricane

Posted at 9:35 AM, Jun 20, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-20 13:32:42-04

Four is in your corner this hurricane season and we want to make sure you know how to plan for your health, during a storm.

Doctor Karen Calkins, with Lee Health Convenient Care, shared some steps for getting hurricane-ready from a medical perspective:

  • Make sure you have sufficient supply of prescription medications  
  • If possible, get a refill of these medications ahead of time
  • If your medications require refrigeration, make sure you stock up on plenty of ice to keep them cool
  • If you require specialty care, including breathing treatments, be sure to register with Lee County Emergency Management services for special needs shelters.  

If you need to see your doctor, but their office is closed because of the storm, you're urged to go to a Lee Convenient Care, or another walk-in clinic. In case of an emergency, call 911.

You can visit Lee Convenient Care centers to treat non-life threatening injuries:

  • Sprains
  • Cuts
  • Rashes,
  • Illnesses.
  • Broken bones, as long as the bone has not gone through the skin.

Once the storm has passed, you should be mindful of heat stroke, since often times the power will be out. Young children, the elderly and people with medical conditions are the most susceptible to the heat.

If you are working outside after a hurricane:  

  • Hydrate often
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a hat 
  • Take time to acclimate to your surroundings 
  • Always wear sunscreen when in the sun 

If you think someone is overheating watch for signs of: 

  • Confusion
  • A headache
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle or abdominal cramps
  • Fainting 

If you start to experience these symptoms, get out of the heat immediately and seek shade if air conditioning isn't available.  You can also take a cool shower, bath or apply cold towels.