Daily HealthBeat Tip

Before the storm comes

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

Hurricane season is upon us, and this may be a lesson for a lot of us. Because we know that hurricanes don't end all at once. After they devastate the coast, they often slosh into the heartland. Even their ebbing winds can blow down trees and power lines, and damage buildings. They can spawn tornadoes. And their heavy rains can cause flooding.

So hurricane season is reason for people to prepare. Surgeon General Richard Carmona:

"Learn about your community's emergency plans, warning signals, evacuation routes and emergency shelters. Stock your home and vehicle with emergency supplies. Secure or protect potential home hazards, such as utilities." (14 seconds)

You also can make plans to protect people with special needs, and pets. Stay tuned to your radio or television � and listen to local authorities.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: June 20, 2006

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