Be safe when severe weather hits

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Michael Mavrakis
  • 66th Air Base Group Safety office
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  With the extreme weather that has hit the country in recent weeks, storm safety is a topic that warrants the Hanscom community's attention. In the chaos that ensues both during and after a severe storm, remembering some basic rules could save a person's life.

The 66th Air Base Group Safety office offers some tips and advice on staying safe when severe weather hits.

Recent storms in the mid-Atlantic region killed at least 13 people in a span of two days. Most of the deaths were attributed to people being struck by falling trees. There are some additional hazards to be on the lookout for during and after a severe storm.

Some of the hazards include: electrical hazards from downed power lines or objects such as fences that have been energized by downed lines; hazardous driving conditions due to dangerous road conditions; slips and falls due to wet walkways; falling objects, such as utility poles; and fires caused by lightning or equipment failure.

In addition, downed power lines, usually due to strong winds, pose an especially dangerous threat. There are some rules to follow for those that may come across downed power lines on foot or in a car.

First of all, stay away. Assume all downed or low hanging power lines are energized. Never drive over downed power lines. Even if the lines are not energized, they can become entangled in a vehicle, causing an accident.

If contact occurs with a power line while in a vehicle, remain in place. Stay calm and, if possible, call for help using a cell phone. Otherwise, honk the horn to gain attention, but caution any passersby to stay away from the vehicle.

To exit the vehicle, open the door and jump as far as possible, landing with your feet together. Do not touch the ground and the vehicle at the same time. Shuffle away from the vehicle slowly to minimize the path of electric current and avoid electrical shock.

A loss of electricity is common after a severe storm. Sometimes, the electricity can be out for days causing major health concerns, especially in severe heat. Some key points to remember if the electricity goes out in the home are as follows.

Remember food safety. If the power is out for less than two hours, refrigerated food should be safe. Longer than that, the food should be transferred to a cooler with ice. Food in the freezer will last about 24 to 48 hours depending on how full it is. Avoid opening the freezer door.

Beware of the heat. In soaring temperatures, lack of air-conditioning or fans can be deadly. Drink plenty of water, wear light clothing and minimize activity.

Alternative energy sources, such generators, can create a buildup of deadly carbon monoxide in a home. Never use generators, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, basement or garage.

Most of this information can be applied off the job. Should severe weather impact Hanscom, the Safety office will keep personnel informed of the proper actions to take to ensure employee safety.