Health & Safety
Health Care Challenges
NAN wants everyone to remain healthy and safe during these unprecedented and trying times. Every day, we are bombarded with numerous health concerns that can potentially affect our families, neighborhoods and local businesses and often require immediate attention. A sampling of these concerns fall in the categories of preventative medicine, substance abuse and mental wellbeing.
Preventative medicine identifies and treats those potential health risks prior to the development of complications. Screenings, immunizations, and often lifestyle changes, for example, diet, exercise and stress management, may be necessary components to segue into a healthier life.
Childhood vaccines, yearly flu vaccines, shingles and pneumonia vaccines (for adults 50+) may be an important component of your doctor’s visit. The COVID-19 Vaccine Education Initiative and the COVID Collaborative educate the American public about the COVID-19 vaccines, the side effects, efficacy, and clinical trials. Be sure to stay Informed on the ever-changing research in this field and up-to-date reports.
Most importantly, consult your preferred doctor or medical professional, one that you trust and have confidence in.
http://dchealth.dc.gov/immunization
https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/
https://odr.dc.gov/book/Path/FreeMedical (Office of Disability Rights-free medical screenings)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Awareness
The Access HelpLine1(888)7WE-HELP or 1-888-793-4357
The DC Department of Behavioral Health provides certified health professionals on a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week help line for those adults and children who may need either immediate help or continuing care. The HelpLine is also capable of responding with a mobile crisis team for those who are in crisis and cannot or unwilling to reach the behavioral services.
The councilors at the Access HelpLine are also available for younger clients, as well, needing the services if experiencing issues pertaining to family, gangs, and substance abuse. “We can help you sort out and manage feelings of hopelessness, anger, grief, stress or whatever is troubling you.”
https://dbh.dc.gov/service/access-helpline
The National Council for Mental Health Wellbeing is an organization that has been in existence since 1969. With the motto of: Healthy Minds - Strong Communities, the organization’s vision is to bridge the gap between mental and substance use and the millions of people who need treatment, but are not receiving the care they need. The Council serves adults, as well as, children and families.
In addition to providing treatment for the people they serve, the council also provides a course entitled Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) which teaches others how to be able “to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.”
http://www.thenationalcouncil.org
Suicide Prevention
The stress of everyday life can leave many in need of emotional support; LIFELINE can help, providing free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.
Reach them at +1 (800) 273-8255
Disaster Preparedness
Be Prepared for Anything!
Fire, Hurricane, Tornado, Flood, or Terrorist Attack; they can and will happen; so be ready — Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count. Many of the things you do to prepare for the unexpected, such as making an emergency supply kit, a first aid kit, and a family communications plan, are important for both natural and man-made emergencies.
When preparing for a possible emergency situation, whether sheltering in place or leaving home, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air, and warmth. Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation; food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food; battery-powered or hand-crank radio and extra batteries, and a flashlight with extra batteries; a warm blanket; a can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) and a whistle can be used to signal for help. Remember contact lenses and extra eyeglasses. You may need infant formula and diapers, feminine supplies and personal hygiene items, pet food and extra water for your pet.
First Aid Kit Recommendations
A good first-aid kit is something that should always be in the home; however, in an emergency, it could prove to be a necessity. Your first-aid kit should contain a thermometer, bandages of various sizes (gauze, Ace, sling), splint, adhesive tape, tweezers, scissors, soap and peroxide (for cleaning wounds), latex gloves, alcohol swabs, petroleum jelly, anti-bacterial ointments and non-prescription medications (aspirin/non-aspirin pain reliever).
Most important: Don't forget extra prescription medications, insulin, heart, and high blood pressure medication.
Building "Bug Out" or "Go" Bags
A well-equipped, close at hand, bag that you can grab quickly before evacuating. One bag for every family member should be equipped and should include: a complete change of clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes. Important family documents, such as copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records, should be placed in a waterproof, portable container or plastic bag. Cash or traveler's checks and change are also quite important. Toss in a few energy/granola bars.
A backpack always works well as a "Go" bag.
Preparing to Shelter in Place
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional clothing and bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate. Household chlorine bleach with a medicine dropper can be used as a disinfectant, when diluted nine parts water to one part bleach. In an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. Try to have a fire extinguisher and matches in a waterproof container close at hand. Mess kits, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, paper towels, paper and pencils, books, games, puzzles or small toys keep spirits high and help children handle stress.
Balance your Shopping List
Adding a few extra cans of non-perishable food to your shopping list is a good way to stock a pantry of emergency supplies. Canned fruits, vegetables, juices, peanut butter, and dry cereal are good choices requiring no refrigeration or little preparation. Be sure to check expiration dates and rotate your stock.
Find Out about Plans in your Area
Most cities already have a disaster plan in place. Emergency instructions, evacuation routes, and locations of public shelters will be broadcast on the radio. Be sure to have a contact person who lives far away from you that all family members can coordinate with. Try to keep your car gas tank at least 3/4 full and keep supplies stocked in the car (water, warm clothing, energy bars/snacks) and your phone charged.
Further Information
Two websites, www.ready.gov and www.redcross.org, provide extensive information on all types of disasters, as well as lists and guides for creating emergency disaster plans.