Mexico's Ministry of Health has issued the following recommendations to the general population affected by hurricanes:
- Drink bottled, disinfected*, or boiled water.
- Eat canned goods and other products inside tight-sealed containers. Make sure cans aren't swollen or bulging.
- Wash your hands with water and soap before cooking and after using the bathroom.
- If you have symptoms such as eye itchiness, nausea, vomit, diarrhea, cough, headaches, please seek immediate medical assistance and do not self-medicate.
For its part, the Ministry of the Navy has issued the following recommendations to the people in coastal areas affected by hurricanes:
- Do not swim in the sea.
- If you own a ship, dock it in a safe place.
- Place personal documents inside a plastic bag.
- Keep yourself updated on the status and trajectory of the storm or hurricane.
- Identify shelters, evacuation routes, and evacuation transports near you.
- Make sure to store fish hooks, harpoon, and similar items in a safe place.
In case of a storm:
- Keep calm.
- Unplug all electrical appliances.
- Close all water and gas valves.
- Keep away from doors and windows.
- If there is a power outage, do not light candles. Use a battery-powered lamp.
- Do not remain outdoors.
- Follow the instructions of authorities.
After a storm
- Wear closed shoes.
- Do not eat raw food.
- Cooperate with your neighbors to repair any possible damages left by the storm.
- Prevent water stagnation to avoid mosquitos.
- Contact emergency services in case of wounds or injuries.
*To disinfect water, add two drops of chlorine per liter and let it settle for 30 minutes. Then boil water for five minutes.
With information by Perla Miranda
am