EMS: Stay safe and healthy when temperatures fall

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Sponsored by East Baton Rouge Emergency Medical Services

As winter sets in, the likelihood that you will experience a weather-related emergency, particularly a power outage, increases. Paramedics with East Baton Rouge Emergency Medical Services respond to many calls each winter from residents without electricity who are cold and hungry. Here are some tips from EMS to help protect you and your family before a storm hits.

Steps to prepare for weather-related emergencies, including power outages:

  • Stock food that does not need to be cooked or refrigerated and store water in clean containers.
  • Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged.
  • When planning travel, be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions.
  • Keep an up-to-date emergency kit. If a storm is likely to cause a lot of damage, it’s important to be prepared for a variety of situations. Your kit should include:
    • Battery-operated devices, such as a flashlight, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio and lamps.
    • Extra batteries.
    • First-aid kit and extra medicine.
    • Baby items
    • Cat litter or sand for icy walkways.
  • Protect your family from carbon monoxide (CO).
    • Keep grills, camp stoves and generators out of the house, basement and garage.
    • Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house.
    • Leave your home immediately if the CO detector sounds and call 911.
  • Be ready to check on family and neighbors who are especially at risk from cold weather hazards: young children, older adults, and the chronically ill.

More tips to help you stay healthy this winter:

  • Limit the spread of germs: cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you can’t wash your hands, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Stay hydrated: drinking enough water daily boosts your immune system and helps you fight viruses.
  • Up your vitamin D intake: low vitamin D levels can make you susceptible to illnesses and negatively affect your mental health.
  • Manage dry skin: cold air and low humidity can cause dry, itchy skin.
  • Stay rested: A lack of sleep can lower your immune system.
  • Get vaccinated: Immunizations are an important strategy to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and flu.
  • See a provider when you’re sick: If you have COVID-19 or flu symptoms, call your health care provider.

More information about EBR EMS can be found online at brla.gov/EMS.