Storms are lashing the Western Cape and all indications are that these weather conditions are moving inland.

What are the most common injuries you can sustain in such a storm? How can you prevent them and how can you help others who have been hurt?

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“Obviously, exposure to the elements is a major problem”, says Cape Town GP Dr Bridget Farham. “Injuries from flying debris, such as shattered window glass or roof tiles or litter are also common.”

“The most important thing is to get indoors and stay out of the line of fire as far as is possible”, says Dr Farham. “Flying rooftiles and tree branches and shattering glass can cause some nasty injuries."

Get under cover. Exposure to the elements is a major problem, as injuries from flying debris, such as shattered window glass or roof tiles or litter can easily be sustained.”

Don't branch out. Stay away as far as possible from trees. Not only can they be struck by lightning, they can also fall over and kill people.

Don't be shattered. Wind and seawater can blow out large glass windows. Stay out of rooms with large windows, especially if they are facing the prevailing wind. Close windows and draw curtains.

Don't be cut up. Flying rooftiles and tree branches and shattering glass can cause some nasty injuries. It is important to stop the bleeding as soon as possible and get medical attention. Applying pressure to the area in the immediate vicinity of the wound will stop the bleeding.

Pinned down? If someone has been pinned down by rubble or trapped in a car by a falling tree, one has to be very careful, as they could have spinal injuries. If the person has to be removed, because there is fire danger, care must be taken not to cause further spinal injury.

As many people as possible should assist in removing the injured person, with one person holding the head as steady as possible. It is also possible that the object causing the injury, such as a tree or a steering wheel, could also be the object stopping excessive bleeding as it puts pressure on the arteries. If someone bleeds excessively after the object that fell on him is removed, pressure must be applied to the wound to counteract the loss of blood.

Batten down the hatches. When a storm hits, it is important to stay indoors, make sure pets and children are safe, close windows and draw curtains, in case glass shatters, put all loose garden furniture away and have candles and a gas cylinder handy in case of power cuts. And park your car far away from the nearest tree!

(Susan Erasmus, Health24)
 

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