How to stay healthy during severe weather

The Atlantic hurricane season is underway. That means the threat of severe weather is ever-present through Nov. 30. This threat includes high winds, torrential rains, flooding and tornadoes. Emergency medicine experts say now is the time to prepare to ensure you and your family remain safe during and after a storm.

“Preparation and planning are key,” says Dr. Michael Boniface, an emergency medicine physician at Mayo Clinic.

He offers these reminders to ensure your safety and well-being:

Prepare for several days

“The rule of thumb is to look at your household members, pets included, and know what you will need for at least 72 hours to keep everyone safe, nourished and hydrated. Have it ready at a moment’s notice,” says Boniface. “Evacuation may not always be necessary but being prepared will save you critical time when you need to load up and head out at short notice.”

Have a ready bag

Boniface suggests each family member, including four-legged family members, have a “ready bag” that includes supplies and necessities, such as batteries, flashlights, clothes, food and bottled water. Don’t forget health and first-aid items.

“When putting together your ready bag or hurricane box, everybody knows to bring adequate clothing, food and water, but what a lot of people don’t realize is that you need to bring all the medications that you take on a regular basis for yourself, your family members and your pets,” says Boniface.