Preparing yourself for catastrophes

MANILA, Philippines -  Natural calamities cannot be averted. So when an earthquake, typhoon, or massive flooding strikes, we need to be knowledgeable about what to do. Premier health institution Makati Medical Center gives tips on what we can do to possibly minimize damage and injury to person and property. 

“Disasters, by definition, come when we least expect them, so there’s really no better way to prevent damage by being prepared,” says Lawrence Harder, assistant vice president for facilities management and engineering. “Especially these days, when it’s actually become the norm to see a flooded metro even just after 30 minutes of rain shower,” he adds.

Harder lists down the musts that every household should do to keep their family safe in times of calamity. “Communication of information is very important. Keep constantly updated on the developments of the possible disaster such as incoming typhoons. The use of social media such as Twitter or Facebook, and even Viber can be of help to everyone.”

The next step is securing the house. Learning how to switch on and off the gas, water, and electricity is a must. “Look around and see what needs to be fixed, such as pipes or ceiling cracks. Also consider the arrangement of the things inside your house, from the furniture to appliances,” suggests Harder. For instance, if your house is flood-prone, keep your appliances upstairs.

Lastly, have the following items at hand: a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, flashlight, a battery-powered radio and lots of extra batteries, candles, and of course, ready-to-eat food. “Knowing that you’re armed and prepared makes you calmer and more focused on dealing with the situation at hand,” he points out.

“Remember to stay calm because that’s the only way you can think clearly and rationally. That’s only when you can decide what to do next. The very principle of first aid is immediate action,” Dr. Gabriel G. Gabriel admonishes. “Remain calm at all times. Assess for danger and think before you act,” the good doctor says, proceeding to discuss the most common first-aid measures: When a patient is severely bleeding, lay the person down and apply firm, direct pressure on the wound, using a clean pad. Elevate the injured area to a level above the heart. Firmly wrap a bandage around the pad to keep it in place. Loosen the patient’s clothing or anything else that may hinder blood flow.

For fractures, it’s important not to move the patient to avoid further injury. Support the affected area by using a soft padding. For sprains and strains, make the patient lie down and rest first. A cold compress may help alleviate the pain and reduce swelling. Elevate the affected part above the level of the heart.

“Remember that first-aid is only primary care given to the patient until professional medical help arrives,” points out Dr. Gabriel. “In a way, the first actions you take post-injury determines how little or how much the patient will then have to recover from it,” he warns.

After the disaster, Dr. Gabriel reminds us of the necessary precautions. “Even if you’re feeling fine, take time to check yourself for possible injuries, or minor cuts and bruises. If bandage is not available, a clean handkerchief or piece of cloth will do. This is to make sure that your current conditions don’t advance into something worse.”

Dr. Gabriel also advises against using the phone, appliances, and the like at once. It’s wise to stay away from damaged areas first.

“Drinking water is another thing to be wary of,” says Dr. Gabriel. “You can get a lot of complicated illnesses when you’ve taken in contaminated water, so to be sure, boil the water first before drinking.”

“The key is just keeping yourself informed, and that’s the most you can do to prepare,” Dr. Gabriel concludes.