Tips from the CPR and Safety Lady: Staying Safe After Hurricane Beryl in Houston

As we all work together to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, it’s more important than ever to prioritize our safety and well-being. With over a million of us still without power and the heat wave bearing down, remember we're in this together. Here are some crucial tips to help you stay safe and take care of each other during this challenging time.

1. Beat the Heat Safely

We know how brutal the Houston heat can be, especially when the power's out. Here’s how you can stay cool and hydrated:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. It’s easy to forget to drink enough, especially when you’re busy dealing with post-storm issues. Keep water handy and sip frequently. Steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks – they can dehydrate you more.

• Find Cool Spots: If your home is too hot, seek out the cooling centers set up around the city. Places like libraries, malls, and community centers can be lifesavers right now.

• Limit Outdoor Activities: Try to avoid strenuous activities, particularly during the peak heat of the day. If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

• Check on Neighbors: This is the time to look out for each other. Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and anyone with medical conditions. Make sure they’re staying cool and hydrated.

2. Recognize and Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

Extreme heat can lead to serious health issues like heat stroke and seizures. Here’s what to watch for:

• Heat Stroke Symptoms: Be on the lookout for a high body temperature (over 104°F), confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, and muscle weakness. If you see these signs, seek medical help immediately – heat stroke is a medical emergency.

• Seizures: High fever and extreme heat can trigger seizures, especially in people with epilepsy. Symptoms include confusion, twitching, and convulsions. It’s crucial to keep cool and hydrated.

• Take Preventive Measures: Stay inside during the hottest parts of the day, drink lots of water, and keep an eye on those who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

3. Safe Use of Generators

Generators can be a lifesaver during power outages, but they need to be used safely to prevent dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Prevent CO Poisoning: Only use generators outside, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and garages. Never use them indoors, not even in garages or other enclosed spaces.

• Ventilation is Key: Make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid toxic fumes building up.

• Fuel Safety: Store fuel safely and never refuel a generator while it’s running. Let it cool down first to prevent fire hazards.

4. Food Safety Tips

Power outages can make it tricky to know what’s safe to eat and what’s not. Here are some guidelines to help:

• Fridge Safety: According to the USDA, your fridge will keep food safe for up to four hours without power. Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

• What’s Safe to Keep: Hard cheeses, butter, uncut fresh fruits, fruit juices, canned fruits, dried fruits, peanut butter, jelly, and bread are generally safe.

• What to Toss: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers that have been above 40°F for more than two hours should be discarded. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

• When in Doubt, Throw It Out: If you’re not sure about something, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.

For more detailed information and additional safety tips, visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov. Stay safe, Houston. We’re strong, resilient, and we’ll get through this together. 

Take care of yourselves and your neighbors,

Gail Gould

CPR and Safety Lady