Could You Survive Stranded In A Snow Storm?

After hearing about a couple getting stranded in a mountain pass off-roading and the driver dying while seeking help, I thought I should talk about key elements around surviving out in the cold.  People are often overcome by the cold simply due to lack of pre-planning, proper equipment and an adequate plan for survival until rescue help arrives.  If you’ve ever wondered what you would do if you were lost, stranded or overcome by the winter elements, be sure to watch this episode of RoyOnRescue.
In the meantime, remember at least these important points:

1.   Let people know where you are going and what route you’ll be taking…then stick to it!
2.   Dress with layers of clothing or have extra clothing available
3.   Bring warming agents like hand and pocket warmers along with extra blankets
4.   Bring extra food that can handle getting cold or even freezing like granola, nuts etc.
5.   Eat snow for hydration
6.   Bring GPS
7.   Bring Flare Gun
8.   Never drive with low gas tank
9.   If the roads are dangerous, maybe stay home or extend your vacation
10. Repeat steps 1 thru 9

Peace,

Roy, RoyOnRescue.com

Hurricane Sandy Is In Full Force and Now I Need An Ambulance!

Okay Rescuers,

When natural or unnatural disasters strike, the chance of getting emergency help to your doorstep fast while the EMS services are exhausted is very slim.  I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about a situation that doesn’t get discussed much.  What effect does a hurricane or natural disaster have on the rest of the community?  We sometimes forget the fact that though the rest of the world is distracted by a storm or other disaster related buzz, people still get sick, heart attacks still happen, car accidents still happen but we don’t often think about from where the next ambulance, fire truck or police car is going to be responding.  This episode of RoyOnRescue addresses this issue and urges people who may be in high risk of needing an ambulance or other EMS service to think proactively and make arrangements before the emergency happens.  Think about moving loved ones with fragile health to temporary locations that may not be effected by the hurricane.  Can the person stay with a relative until the community has recovered?  What is the back up plan if one can be found?  I hope this RoyOnRescue episode get’s everyone thinking and will hopefully help prevent a needless death due to not having the appropriate plans in place.  Stay safe, our prayers are with everyone who has been and is effected by hurricane Sandy and other storms.

 

Danger When Lightning Strikes!

In this episode Roy takes a look at the dangers of thunderstorms and lightning).  And where there’s thunder, there’s lightning. There was a report of a lightning striking a tree next to a home in Park Township destroyed electrical equipment and appliances in the home and caused minor injuries to a child who suffered mouth burns from her braces.  Twenty-four head of cattle were struck and killed by lightning while standing under a tree. Lightning in West plains also caused power outages and one minor fire to a roof.  A person talking on a cordless telephone in the living room of her house was slightly injured by a lightning strike.  A 29-year old man and a 14-year old child were struck by lightning at a rodeo in Lawrence Township and hospitalized. Two horses were also struck and killed by lightning.  A 34-year old little league coach was killed by a lightning strike while on the field. If you’ve ever wondered what the potential danger is regarding lightning strikes you wont want to miss this episode of RoyOnRescue and become more familiar with the dangers of lightning and how to protect yourself and survive.

Heat Wave!

Hello Everyone!

In this RoyOnRescue Video blog, Roy takes a look at the record breaking heat that most of the Country has been experiencing and gives a few tips on recognition and treatment of heat related emergencies like; heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, electrolyte problems etc.  So learn what to do, and how to survive the severe summer heat.  Don’t miss this episode of RoyOnRescue!

P.S.  Below, I’ve included some really clear signs and symptoms of heat related injuries, compliments of WebMD.  Click on the WebMD link for more information.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses?

Heat cramp symptoms include:

  • Severe, sometimes disabling, cramps that typically begin suddenly in the hands, calves, or feet
  • Hard, tense muscles

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

Recommended Related to First Aid

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Excessive thirst
  • Muscle aches and cramps
  • Weakness
  • Confusion or anxiety
  • Drenching sweats, often accompanied by cold, clammy skin.
  • Slowed or weakened heartbeat.
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Agitation

Heat exhaustion requires immediate attention but is not usually life-threatening.

Heat stroke symptoms include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Fatigue
  • Hot, flushed, dry skin
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Decreased sweating
  • Shortness of breath
  • Decreased urination
  • Blood in urine or stool
  • Increased body temperature (104 to 106 degrees)
  • Confusion, delirium, or loss of consciousness
  • Convulsions

Heat stroke can occur suddenly, without any symptoms of heat exhaustion. If a person is experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, GET MEDICAL CARE IMMEDIATELY. Any delay could be fatal. Seek emergency medical care for anyone who has been in the heat and who has the following symptoms:

  • Confusion, anxiety, or loss of consciousness
  • Very rapid or dramatically slowed heartbeat
  • Rapid rise in body temperature that reaches 104 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Either drenching sweats accompanied by cold, clammy skin (which may indicate heat exhaustion); or a marked decrease in sweating accompanied by hot, flushed, dry skin (which may indicate heat stroke)
  • Convulsions
  • Any other heat-related symptom that is not alleviated by moving to a shady or air-conditioned area and administering fluids and salts

Tornadoes and How To Survive.

“I don’t Think We’re In Kansas Anymore Toto!”  This was a famous line from a very good and classic movie, The Wizard Of Oz.  However, many people experience tornados each year and suffer great loss and damage as a result.  In this video blog post, Roy Shaw, EMT-paramedic and host of RoyOnRescue will share video clips of real tornados caught on video and some ideas on how to protect yourself your loved ones and others during the watch and warning phases of a devastating storm like a tornado.  It’s spring and it’s tornado season.  You won’t want to miss this episode.

Here’s a link from OSHA about how to prepare your workplace for a tornado.  Tornado Safety Link

Turkey, Road Rage and Trauma Oh My!

What does Turkey, Trauma, and Road Rage have in common? Black Friday! In this episode of RoyOnRescue, Roy shows how crazy it can be when waiting in line for that “perfect” gift that one could just die for?

Don’t miss this episode of RoyOnRescue where Roy sheds some light on how to stay safe while getting those Black Friday bargains.

Part 2 How To Survive In The Wild…A Follow Up To Comments

There was such a great response from the last episode covering life threatening emergencies in the wild, Roy decided to record a “Part 2” response that expounds on a couple of the comments.
Are there any medications that may save a heart attack victim’s life in the wild? and, If I’m asthmatic, is there any thing I can do to increase my chances if I’m away from civilization. Be sure to watch this follow up episode to put the pieces together on how to survive in the wild.

So, don’t stop having fun and living life to the fullest, but if you’re going to go out into the wild, make sure you’ve got a game plan for surviving unexpected events.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Graphic Provided By CDC

In this episode of RoyOnRescue, Roy talks about the possible dangers of Carbon Monoxide gas in the home and garage and how it can occur, how to recognize it and how to prevent it. With the cold weather on it’s way, you won’t want to miss this good reminder about a possible silent killer that can be prevented.

CDC reminds us of some of the basic ways to prevent this from happening.

 

How can I prevent CO poisoning from my home appliances?

  • Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
  • Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters (catalytic) indoors. Although these heaters don’t have a flame, they burn gas and can cause CO to build up inside your home, cabin, or camper.
  • If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator’s cooling unit have an expert service it. An odor from the cooling unit of your gas refrigerator can mean you have a defect in the cooling unit. It could also be giving off CO.
  • When purchasing gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as the American Gas Association or Underwriters’ Laboratories.
  • Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.http://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm

In Depth CO Poisoning Info From the CDC

Big Waves Can Mean Big Danger

It’s been a while but it’s good to be back. In this episode I explain why it’s been so long between my last vlog and this latest release. I also talk about a first hand experience I had watching dangerous undertows and sideways currents when I took my family to Lake Michigan on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The waves were 4-6 feet and they may have made a very dangerous situation. Be sure to watch in order to learn more about how to keep others safe at the beach.

For explanation of Rip Tides and Under Tow click here: http://www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov/glossary.shtml


Heat Emergencies Revisited

In this episode of RoyOnRescue, Roy re-explains some important tips regarding recognition, prevention and treatment of heat related emergencies. It’s hot outside and those who are old, young and have ill health may be at a greater risk. Learn how to rescue someone today from the heat.

 

Best Wishes,

 

RoyOnRescue Team