More Important Tips In The Event Of a National Calamity

The city of Frederick in Maryland is a great place to live in. Ask its residents. It’s a peaceful place with a rich history and a vibrant culture. However, it’s had its share of calamities, with hail storms and flooding hitting the county recently.

Here are some tips for homeowners in the area, just in case they are confronted with natural disasters.

Bolting down

Bolting down the roofs, fortifying windows, and any points of entry can protect the home against hail. Installing secondary wooden covers for windows allows homeowners to cover glass windows and prevent them from shattering.

However, homeowners can go that extra mile and bolt down features inside the house, such as heavy pieces of furniture and refrigerators. That way, they can also be safe in case an earthquake hits. Just be sure that the bolts can easily be taken out if these fixtures need to be moved, in case of flooding.

 Speaking of flooding.

Switching off

For people living in low-lying places vulnerable to flooding, it’s important that homeowners have easy access to their circuit breakers if they need to shut it down. Almost always, in homes that get flooded, electricity is the first concern. Once the power is off, homeowners can take care of the rest of the things, such as moving appliances and furniture to the second floor.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., is an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and has rendered over 10 years of service in occupational safety and health. For more articles like this, check out this page.

Three Ways To Have Clean Water After a Natural Disaster

Natural disasters can usually lead to food and water shortage. Tap water sources can also be contaminated, especially after storms and flash floods. Here are some ways to get clean water when there's no available supply:

1. Boiling

Boiling is probably the easiest and most common method to have clean and safe water for consumption. Find a heating source and a suitable container for boiling. Wait for a few minutes until the water comes to a rolling boil. For good measure, the Red Cross and FEMA suggest boiling the water for one more minute to kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

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2. Iodine

This solution can be found in most first aid kits. A common disinfectant for wounds, this can also be used to treat contaminated water. For each quart of water, use five drops of iodine. However, use up to ten drops if the water is noticeably dark. After treating the water with iodine, wait up to an hour before consuming.

3. Unscented bleach

This is another common household cleaning solution that can be used to purify water during emergency situations. To treat contaminated water, use 5% unscented bleach and add 1/8 of a teaspoon for a gallon of water. Shake the container and wait for an hour before drinking. If the water is still dark after the treatment, use filters before drinking.

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Water is essential for a person's survival. Knowing these water purification methods can save lives especially in emergency situations.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders is an expert in biological safety, field medical operations, biosecurity, occupational safety and health, infectious disease epidemiology, environmental health services, and occupational health and wellness programs. Visit this page for more updates on his field of work and study.