Common home accidents how to avoid them Down But Not Out How to make it through a power outage unscathed Effects Of Pandemics Facts and figures ...
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Common home accidents
how to avoid them
Down But Not Out
How to make it through a
power outage unscathed
A Special Supplement to Effects Of Pandemics
Facts and figures about
pandemics
2 Saturday, January 30, 2021 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Portsmouth Daily Times
Understanding weather
emergencies
water can form and rip through anything Tornadoes
in their path, states the National Weather Tornadoes form a concentrated, highly vola-
Service. Flooding is dangerous while it is
W
tile and rapidly rotating column of air that is
eather emergencies can happen averages for a given area. High-pressure happening, but also afterwards, as live in contact with both the surface of the Earth
at any time of year and in any part systems trap air in one place as it warms, wires, waste and debris can pose their own and a cloud. National Geographic says their
of the world. Learning to recog- leading to a heat wave. While heat waves hazards. winds may top 250 miles per hour and affect
nize the most common weather hazards may not seem especially dangerous, the pathways up to a mile wide and 50 miles
can help people confront adverse weather NOAA says they kill more people than all Hurricanes
long. Tornadoes have been reported in vari-
situations more capably. other weather-related disasters combined. Hurricanes are destructive and danger-
ous countries, but are most often seen in the
ous storms that may be referred to as
United States.
High temperatures Floods “cyclones” and “typhoons” in other parts of
High temperatures are experienced during A flood is a major weather hazard that the world. These storms cause high winds, Additional weather hazards include earth-
the summer in many parts of the world. is caused by heavy rainfall over a given flooding, heavy rain, and tidal surges. Un- quakes, blizzards, wildfires, mudslides, and
Heat waves occur when high temperatures area in a short period of time. During like some other storms, hurricanes can be even run-of-the-mill thunderstorms. Under-
stick around for two or more days, advises a flood, water does not drain quickly tracked for days prior to making landfall. standing storms can help people recognize
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric enough. Flooding occurs rather suddenly That means people have ample time to the appropriate measures they can take to
Administration. To qualify as a heat wave, and has the potential to cause loss of life take the necessary steps to stay safe when stay safe should they find themselves in the
temperatures have to exceed the historical and property damage. Raging torrents of they’re in the path of a hurricane. line of an adverse weather event.
951 Vern Riffe Drive, Lucasville, OH 45648
OH-70220291
www.sciototech.org • 740.259.5526
Preparing Our Community For Emergencies
Firefighter Classes-From Volunteer to Instructor
CPR & First Aid
Public Safety Technologies -
Security Guard to Police Force
Portsmouth Daily Times EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Saturday, January 30, 2021 3
Tools that can keep which can reduce the risk of overheated
products and house fires.
people safe at home
Flood and leak detector
The financial information and wellness re-
source Canstar says leakages, burst pipes
and other water-related issues in a home
are one of the more common home emer-
gencies. Water damage can cost between
hundreds and thousands of dollars depend-
ing on how invasive the water problem is.
Catching a leak or flood in a home early on
is essential.
Water leak detectors are designed to detect
a potential flood or leak at an early stage so
homeowners can take action. Sensors may
sound an alarm or be connected to a WiFi
system to send an alert to a mobile device.
Carbon monoxide and
gas detection
It is vital that homeowners install carbon
monoxide detectors in their homes. Carbon
H
monoxide is odorless and colorless, and
omes should be sanctuaries for their can cause poisoning that slowly suffocates
inhabitants. Keeping homes safe and a person. It also is combustible.
sound requires both maintenance Carbon monoxide devices cannot detect a
and some caution designed to make homes gas leak, but gas detectors can. They are
less vulnerable to potentially costly issues. a wise addition for people who have a sig-
Promptly addressing maintenance issues nificant number of natural gas appliances,
around the house can reduce the risk of or those who have older, gas-powered ap-
accident or injury. In addition, various items pliances.
can alert homeowners to problems they
may not otherwise recognize before issues Sump pump alarm
jeopardize residents’ health or take a turn A sump pump can mean the difference be-
for the costly. tween a flooded basement and a dry floor.
Homeowners may not recognize a sump
Auto shut-off features pump malfunction during a power outage,
Who hasn’t left the house only to worry and clogs also may not be detectable until
an hour or so later about whether the cof- the basement floods. Sump pump alarms
fee pot was turned off or the straightening incorporated into the system alert home-
iron was unplugged? When shopping for owners that something is amiss.
personal care items or appliances, seek Homeowners can rely on devices and other
out models that have automatic shut-off tools to prevent their homes from being
features. This safety feature will power damaged and themselves and their
down the unit after a certain amount of time, families safe.
For as long as people show valor in their actions to
protect others, there will be hope for our society.
Thank you for your service.
Portsmouth Police Department
Debra Brewer - Police Chief
(740)353-4101 or
OH-70221230
call 911 in an emergency
4 Saturday, January 30, 2021 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Portsmouth Daily Times
Don’t miss a
beat during a
power outage
recent year for data, customers expe-
rienced an average of 1.3 interruptions
and went without power for around four
hours.
When a storm strikes or an accident
generator can be hard-wired to a home’s
knocks out electric power lines or other
electrical system and automatically en- During a power outage
infrastructure, it may take much longer for Report the power outage to the power
gage should a power outage occur.
power to be restored. During Superstorm company if it seems localized; otherwise,
Sandy in 2012, more than eight million wait for updates to see who is affected.
people lost power and outages lasted for Prepare in advance
In anticipation of a power outage, stock Try to remain cool or warm if the HVAC
days in some major cities. Outlying areas system is not functioning. Pool resources
were without power for weeks, according up on battery-powered devices like flash-
lights, lanterns and radios. Charge mo- by having everyone in the family gather in
to National Geographic. It’s important to
bile phones and other devices so they’re one room of the house. Older adults and
know how to handle a power outage to
at 100 percent power. children are especially vulnerable to ex-
keep everyone safe and comfortable until
Keep a cache of nonperishable food treme temperatures.
power can be restored.
S
available and plan to use any perishable Maintain food supplies that do not require
hort-term power outages can be a refrigeration, including two gallons of
Invest in a generator items that are in the refrigerator first. A
minor inconvenience. A long-term bottled water per individual. People who
power outage can cause a major If you live in an area that is affected by refrigerator can keep food cold for about
frequent power outages, a power genera- four hours after power has ceased, states take refrigerated medications should only
disruption to daily life. ingest drugs that have been at room tem-
tor may prove a worthwhile investment. Ready.gov, while a freezer can keep the
The U.S. Energy Information Administra- perature until a new supply is available,
Generators come in two basic types. temperature for about 48 hours if full.
tion’s Annual Electric Power Industry Re- Packing these appliances with ice or fro- advises the Centers for Disease Control
A portable generator can be rolled into
port says interruptions in electric service place and uses gasoline as fuel. Plug in a zen bottles of water can help. and Prevention.
vary by frequency and duration across set number of household items, depend- Purchase books, board games and Power outages routinely occur and require
the many electric distribution systems ing on the amount of power the appli- puzzles to have activities to pass the time planning and safety precautions until
that serve the country. In 2016, the most ance can accommodate. A whole-house until power resumes. power is restored.
FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONERS • REFRIGERATION
First Responders:
740.259.4512
LUCASVILLE, OH Heroes on the Homefront
When you need someone you To all the First Responders
OH #26659 WV #WV032096 KY #M03215
can count on. Since 1984 that selflessly give of
themselves day after day,
Thank You.
OH-70221216
OH-70221174
VILLAGE OF NEW BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
3982 RHODES AVENUE, NEW BOSTON, OH 45662 • (740) 456-4107 • CHRIS DAVIS, FIRE CHIEF
Portsmouth Daily Times EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Saturday, January 30, 2021 5
8 steps for a successful
evacuation plan
1
Learn which types of disasters are likely in
the area where you live or work. Investigate
community and local shelter plans for each
disaster.
2
Check with local officials to determine if
shelters are currently available. COVID-19
may have altered community or city ordi-
6
nances for shelter usage and other evacu- The Insurance Information Institute advises
ation plans. taking a home inventory in the event that
you need to apply for disaster aid or file an
insurance claim. Store this inventory with
3
Identify where everyone can go in the event other important paperwork, and make a
of an evacuation. Have a few alternative digital copy to store on a cloud service.
lodging plans in place, including the homes
of family and friends in another town or
city, a hotel, or a shelter. Store the phone
7
numbers for these locations in your phone Check in with an out-of-area fam-
or write them down in a readily accessible ily member or contact so that others
notebook with other important information. know your plan.
4
Designate a meeting spot outside of a home
or business that is a safe distance from the
8
Conduct a real time test to get out of the
building. Each family member or work asso- building. Aim for evacuating in just 10 min-
ciate should know to report to that meeting utes with family and belongings. Don’t for-
spot so everyone can reassess their options get to include pets in evacuation tests.
together. Evacuation plans may never be called into
action, but they are an important component
of disaster preparation.
5
Pack “go bags” that include key materials per-
tinent to you. In addition, pack a first aid kit,
bottled water, flashlights, cherished photos,
identification/travel documents, wills/deeds,
banking documents, and a laptop.
We Appreciate Our Police
N
o one wants to envision a catastrophic event suddenly wreak-
ing havoc on their home or business. While the thought may Every day, our nation’s police officers
be unpleasant, it is vital that homeowners and business own- put their lives on the line to protect our
ers develop evacuation plans to ensure everyone gets out safely neighborhoods and keep us safe. The
should disaster strike.
Ready.gov, an emergency preparedness site sponsored by the
positive impact of their service and
United States government, notes that there are many kinds of emer- dedication to our communities and our
gencies that can result in evacuation. Fires, storms and floods may country is invaluable, and we owe them the
require evacuation. Travelers Insurance notes it is essential to de- full measure of our respect and gratitude.
velop a plan to get out of a home or other structure on short notice, The Village of New Boston Police Department
and that such plans must be in place and noted before individuals Steve Goins, Police Chief • William D. Williams, Jr, Mayor
find themselves in emergency situations. 740-456-4109
OH-70221217
HERE TO PROTECT AND SERVE OUR COMMUNITY
6 Saturday, January 30, 2021 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Portsmouth Daily Times
Recovering from a
medical emergency
M
aintaining one’s health and well- feel ashamed.
being is a top priority for people Plan for rest. Rest is a large part of recov-
from all walks of life. Equally im- ery. You may need to take time off from
portant is knowing what to do in the case work or other responsibilities. If necessary,
of medical emergencies. ask someone to advocate on your behalf,
In the United States, the Centers for Dis- finding out if your position is secure and if
ease Control and Prevention indicates that you are eligible for temporary financial as-
42 percent of the public visit the emer- sistance.
gency room annually. While some visits
are for conditions that can be treated in Seek professional help. If you are feel-
less urgent settings, many visits take place ing mentally overwhelmed from the emer-
during legitimate medical emergencies. gency event, so much so that it interferes
Medical illnesses and emergencies can be with regular life, consult with a mental
high-stress, traumatic events. The chal- health expert, advises WebMD.
lenges of recovering from a serious injury Retrofit your home accordingly. Some
may leave some people feeling over- medical emergencies may require ad-
whelmed and helpless. The more informed ditional equipment be brought in to a
patients are about their recoveries, the home, especially when mobility has been
more prepared they are to confront them adversely affected. Don’t hesitate to make
head on. these changes, as they may facilitate a
Ask for a timeline. Speak with the doc- speedy recovery.
tors and nurses about what recovery will Exercise regularly. When it’s safe to do
entail and how long you may need to be so, getting out and moving can be help-
on rest or light duty. Knowing the timeline ful. Deep breathing, gentle stretching and
can provide insight into how long your walking can help your body gradually
recovery will take and how long you might reacclimate to being physically active. If
need some help from your support net- you are working with a physical therapist,
work. follow his or her guidelines for regaining
Put together a support team. Don’t hesi- strength.
tate to rely on family members or friends A medical emergency can sideline a
during the recovery process. Loved ones person for some time. Working through
will want to help, and accepting such help recovery step by step can make the entire
should not make anyone process more manageable.
Village of New Boston Services Department
3980 Rhodes Ave. New Boston 740-456-4103
Steve Hamilton, Village Administrator
Some accidents can’t be prevented. That’s why being prepared is
your best defense against a natural disaster.
What can you do to prepare for the unexpected?
Keep an emergency kit ready in your home. It should include
enough nonperishable food and water for at least three days, along
with a flashlight, battery-operated radio, batteries, medicines,
cash, and first-aid and sanitation supplies.
The Flood Defense System in New Boston is maintained and
operated by the New Boston Village Service department. It is From Sheriff David Throughman and the Scioto County Sheriff ’s Office
OH-70221228
being accredited by FEMA and the Army Corp of Engineers which Emergency: 911 / Business: (740)355-8277
maintains periodic inspections. OH-70221220
1025-16th St. Portsmouth Ohio 45562
Portsmouth Daily Times EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Saturday, January 30, 2021 7
Common home accidents
and how to avoid them Did you Know?
H
omeowners
but illicit drugs and alcohol use, as well rely heavily
as prescription drug overdoses, have on electricity
become major contributors to accidental to power their homes
poisonings. Keeping medicine and liquor
and their lives. Coal,
cabinets locked can prevent children and
nuclear power and
teens from accessing items that are off
limits. Disposing of unused or expired water energy help to
prescription medication can help remove generate this elec-
drugs from the home. Educating children tricity. Without elec-
about the dangers of drugs and alcohol tricity, lights wouldn’t
also may help. work, digital devices
Falls: Falls can happen at any age but wouldn’t charge and
they’re most common among the very cities would come
young or very old. Installing grab bars in grinding to a halt.
bathrooms, improving indoor lighting and This is experienced
removing tripping hazards like area rugs on a local level
or toys from high traffic areas can reduce when power outages
the likelihood of falls. Young children
occur. Homeown-
should be carefully supervised and de-
terred from climbing. ers may need to
diversify some of the
Choking/suffocation: U.S. News &
World Report says airway obstruction —
resources they have
which includes choking, suffocation and at home to be able
strangulation — claims about 1,000 lives to make it through
a year. Children often put objects in their an electrical power
mouths and swallow them, resulting in outage successfully.
choking. Eating too quickly and failing to Investing in solar
chew adequately at any age can cause power panels can be
food to become lodged in the throat. one way to generate electricity even when power has been disrupted. In addi-
Older adults may lose the ability to chew tion, pellet stoves or woodburning stoves can serve as alternative heat sources
or swallow adequately due to cognitive
as well as cooking surfaces if traditional forced air systems are rendered use-
disorders or other conditions. Suffoca-
less during an electrical outage. Homes equipped with a coal-fired smoker can
tion can occur when children are put in
unsafe sleeping environments. Too many complement gas-powered grills for outdoor cooking as well for those who have
blankets or toys can impede youngsters’ electric ranges and ovens. Solar-powered device chargers can provide power
S
ability to breathe. Keeping a home clean, to phones or tablets during electrical outages. Having a few different options
ome of the most common and dan-
monitoring children and seniors while eat- on hand can help people make it through power outages unscathed.
gerous emergency situations occur
at home. Precautionary measures ing and learning the Heimlich maneuver
can help prevent injuries.
can make homes as safe as possible, but
accidents can still happen. Drowning: A young child can drown in
The National Safety Council says that 25 just inches of water, but pools, bathtubs
million in-home injuries occurred in homes and other standing water can be of great- FURNACES • HEAT PUMPS • AIR CONDITIONERS • REFRIGERATION
in 2018. Accidental death is the third-lead- est concern. Install fencing with self-
ing cause of death in the United States,
latching gates and supervise children at 740.259.4512
all times when they are around water.
according to the Centers for Disease Con- LUCASVILLE, OH
trol and Prevention. In fact, the NSC says Burns/fires: Install plenty of working
the home injury death rate increased by smoke alarms and hold fire drills to re-
duce the risk of fire-related deaths and in-
When you need someone you
150 percent between 1999 and 2018.
The top five most fatal household inju-
juries. Turning down the temperature of a can count on. Since 1984
home water heater to avoid scalding and OH #26659 WV #WV032096 KY #M03215
ries in the United States are poisoning,
exercising caution in the kitchen, where
falls, choking or suffocation, drowning,
many fires originate, also is key. Never
and fires/burns. Recognizing the threat
OH-70221216
leave food unattended on
these accidents pose can compel people the stove.
to make every effort possible to prevent Home accidents can happen, but aware-
them from happening. ness of common incidents may compel
Poisoning: Poisoning can be attributed people to place a greater emphasis on
to exposure to household chemicals, prevention.
8 Saturday, January 30, 2021 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & RESPONSE Portsmouth Daily Times
Learn more about the
effects of pandemics
M
uch of the globe was introduced Spanish flu lasted two years and claimed
to an assortment of new terms 50 million lives, according to the United
throughout 2020. Phrases like “so- States National Archives. In the 14th cen-
cial distancing” or “flatten the curve” were tury, a bubonic plague pandemic referred
commonly used, but these were to as “The Black Death” caused the deaths
all preceded by the utterance of the of between 75 and 200 million people over
word “pandemic.” a period of five years. In comparison,
as of October 2020, more than 1.1
What is a pandemic? million people have died of the
The World Health Organization defines a COVID-19 disease worldwide, ac-
pandemic as a “worldwide spread of a new cording to NBC News and Johns
disease.” The word pandemic comes from Hopkins University Coronavirus
the Greek words “pan” (meaning “all”) and Resource Center. Prior to COVID-19,
“demos” (“people”). When a new disease the most recent pandemics occurred with
emerges, most people lack the natural im- the outbreak of the Hong Kong flu in 1968-
munity to fight off illness, so the disease 69, the H1N1 Swine flu of 2009-2010, and
can spread rapidly between communities — the Ebola outbreak of 2014-2016. The
and eventually around WHO says that most viral pandemics have
the world. been caused by influenza viruses.
A pandemic differs from an epidemic in that
an epidemic is the spread of disease in a Addressing pandemics
community or region over a specific amount The National Center for Biotechnology
of time. Epidemics often grow Information indicates that globalization pandemics. from the same household. Many diseases
into pandemics. increases the probability of a pandemic. Ur- Health experts say one of the most efficient spread among people who are in close
banization, travel, trade, and human-animal measures to help reduce the risk of pan- contact (within about six feet) for prolonged
Facts and figures interaction all lead to elevated pandemic demic infection is the simplest — the prac- periods.
about pandemics risk. However. thanks to the science of tice of social distancing. The Centers for Global pandemics are nothing new, but the
According to HealthCareers.com, the most epidemiology and the development of new Disease Control and Prevention says social public still needs to be vigilant and do their
lethal pandemics in history were the Span- medicines and therapies, professionals distancing means keeping a safe distance part to help reduce the spread of infectious
ish flu of 1918 and the Black Death. The have helped to reduce death rates due to between oneself and others who are not diseases.
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