State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris urges Alabamians to heed all health and safety warnings as areas of the state prepare for the possibility of significant flooding and damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Actions taken now can save lives.
Dr. Harris has issued an emergency order waiving rules for skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and specialty care assisted living facilities allowing displaced individuals from healthcare facilities in affected states to be placed in licensed healthcare facilities in Alabama and allowing modifications temporarily allowing facilities to exceed their licensed bed capacity. The complete order may be read at the following: https://www. alabamapublichealth.gov/ providerstandards/assets/ hurricanehelene-eo.pdf
Keep yourself and others safe by being aware of potential hazards and protective actions needed after power outages and in cleanup activities, including the following:
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Never use generators, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, basement, garage or camper–or even outside near an open window. Keep these devices at least 20 feet away from any door, window or vent and also use a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector any time you use one of these devices.