CHRISTUS Health promotes preparedness with summer severe weather, high temperatures

With recent heavy rains, flooding and high temperatures, CHRISTUS Health is encouraging people to be prepared for any additional potential emergencies this summer season.

Mary Tarver, the safety and emergency preparedness director for CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, said that individuals and families should take time now to create an emergency plan and be ready for potential natural disasters. Being prepared should include assembling a disaster kit with essential items:

• Medication
• Weather radio
• Potable water
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• First aid kit

“We encourage people to have first aid kits available,” she said. “Having something that can help with those little scrapes and bruises can help buy time until more appropriate care can be delivered.”

Also, be aware of your surroundings when taking part in outdoor activities like sporting events or boating. In the event bad weather rolls in or an emergency happens, you know which direction to find shelter or seek help.

“You can be in Toledo Bend and be in Texas or Louisiana,” Tarver said. “Being aware of where you are is really important if an emergency happens, so you know where to go." She also stressed the importance of sunscreen, especially for parents of young children. Making sure kids apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.

The rising temperatures are another factor to focus on this summer. Tarver emphasized consistent hydration, not just once you feel thirsty. She said it can be helpful to have a cool, wet towel handy for breaks from the heat.

“You don’t realize how hot it can actually get and how quickly your body can change,” she said. “Anything from overheating to heat stroke, it can get dangerous if you’re not careful.”

Severe weather can pop up out of nowhere in the summer, so being prepared and staying informed can have a large impact on you and your loved ones’ safety.