Home Care in Braselton GA

Preparing for the possibility of severe weather and taking steps to protect your loved one if this weather arises is an important part of creating a comprehensive and effective home care plan. Now that the weather has warmed up, the weather risks have changed and so should your preparedness plan. No longer are you planning for the possibility of a blizzard or icy ground conditions. Instead, the warmer weather may usher in thunderstorms that can be both frightening and dangerous.

According to the Red Cross, a thunderstorm earns the classification of “severe” if it features wind gusts of 58 miles per hour or more, or produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter. It is important to note that even if you do not notice it, all thunderstorms do have lightning. This single element of these storms causes more deaths each hear than hurricanes or tornadoes. Of course, it is not just the lightning that is potentially dangerous. Flash flooding, hail, and intense winds can also quickly create dangerous situations.

Use these tips to help you prepare for and properly respond to a severe thunderstorm in the course of your home care journey:

• Be vigilant. Being truly prepared for such an event means knowing what to expect. One of the most important bits of information that you should know is the differentiation between a severe thunderstorm watch and a severe thunderstorm warning. The easiest way to remember the difference is that a “watch” means that they are watching out for such a storm to develop while a “warning” means that they are warning you one is going to happen. When you receive these messages, take them seriously and implement your preparedness plan immediately.
• Take shelter. When a severe thunderstorm occurs, it can escalate extremely quickly. Take shelter as quickly as you can. If you have the time to prepare, you may want to consider bringing your aging parent to stay in your home with you for the duration of the storm. This will ensure that you are all together, which can ease anxiety and make caring for the entire family easier and more efficient.
• Be ready for a power outage. One of the most common occurrences in severe thunderstorms is the power going out. This is not only inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Be ready for such an eventuality by having flashlights readily available and being prepared with an emergency kit. This kit should contain the supplies necessary to take care of your family in the event that the power goes out and remains out for a few days. This includes potable food, water, clothing, first aid supplies, blankets, and other items. Have these readily accessible.
• Prepare the house. Make sure that any animals who are kept outside are brought to safe shelter before the storm. Prepare the home, especially if there is a possibility of hail. Covering windows from the inside with thick cardboard and tape can provide protection from high winds, hail, and flying debris. It will also help to muffle the sounds that occur during the storm and that can be frightening. Tie down or store any items that are outside that may fly away in high winds such as lawn furniture. Unplug as many appliances and electronics as possible to help prevent power surges.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable home care services in Braselton, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Source:   http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/thunderstorm

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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