As parts of Florida anticipate the strengthening of Hurricane Isaias, the storm that has already caused major flooding and damage across the Caribbean, preparing for any potential disaster, especially in a state already in the grips of COVID-19, is paramount at this time . If you have not already done so, now is the time to make immediate preparations to secure your family and possessions and tighten up your emergency plans.
That is important, since proper preparation can lessen the inevitable stress that comes with disasters. The Department of Homeland Security’s website, www.ready.gov has valuable information on how to prepare for an impending hurricane such as Isaias. It states that if a hurricane is 36 hours from arriving, here are some things you should now be doing to prepare:
- Keep your TV and radio on for the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
- Restock your emergency preparedness kit to include enough water and food for three days, medications, flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
- Keep your car in good working condition and filled with gas; Stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and change of clothing.
- Review your evacuation zone, route, and shelter locations. Plan with your family. Plan in case you need to leave quickly.
According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), state-testing for COVID-19 will be closed in areas that may be impacted by the hurricane including Broward and Dade counties until Wednesday, August 4. The Sun Sentinel reports that, “Jared Moskowitz, director of Florida’s Division of Emergency Management, said Thursday afternoon that he has already sent counties thermometers, masks, sanitizers and gloves to conduct coronavirus screenings should they need to open emergency shelters. His office has also sent county managers 85 pages of guidance from federal agencies on how to open shelters safely during the pandemic. The guidance says no more than 50 people in one space and suggests using classrooms within schools rather than auditoriums to help with social distancing and possibly using hotels if needed.”
As part of your emergency planning, make sure you are up to date on your prescription refills and address any chronic health conditions that may be aggravated by the stress of a hurricane. To speak with a healthcare provider at Primary Medical Care Center & Urgent Care Clinic to assess any non-emergency health concerns, including suspected COVID-19 symptoms, please call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911. For coronavirus updates and resources, please visit our website at www.primarymed.com.
Source: https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes