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Emmy award-winning reporter John Biffar, hosts the local medical series Health Matters which airs on NBC2 News Today weekday mornings between 5-5:30 a.m. and during NBC2 News at 4:00 p.m.
 
 
 

 

 

      

Hurricane Preparedness
Air Date:  June 1, 2006

In the event of a hurricane, the last thing you're likely to think about is your backup supply of medication or other important health issues.

Student Kyle Molzan says that "Until you go through a hurricane there's really no way of knowing exactly what you need, you know, it kind of just comes and then you go, oh, that's a necessary thing so you can plan for the future next time."

Pediatrician Emilio Del Valle says that next time is here already. You don't want to wait until the wind starts blowing to realize you've only got one pill left---or your batteries are low. "Have a refill of the medication on hand so that if the pharmacy is not open then you still have it. Have a generator or backup battery. Know how to get ahold of your doctor."

Dr. Del Valle also says that if there's another important lesson to learn from a previous tragedy --- have important paperwork in a safe place to bring with you. Medical and immunization records for all family members and another form for your children. "Let's say those children get separated from their parents for any reason, like what happened in New Orleans. If you have ahead of time, a document filled with the child's information, Power of Attorney so to speak. If you have that document and you keep it well sealed and you then you get separated from your children for any reason, then at least you have that."

Chief Nursing Officer Cindy Boily says that accidents can happen at anytime and although no one is too fond of a hurricane, at least we have plenty of time to prepare. "When you're preparing for hurricanes it's usually a time type of a thing. We approximate when it's going to happen, we prepare for it, and then eventually it does go away."

Considering your medical needs before a hurricane can help you avoid a tragedy of a different nature.

Always include our pets in your hurricane preparations. Pets should have a disaster supply kit, be current on their vaccinations and be included in your evacuation plans, knowing ahead of time where you're going to take them.