Friday, October 19, 2007

Priority Two: Air

Having breathable air is not something you usually have to worry about, but it is an immediate priority if you do. First aide can help with choking and bleeding (which causes the body to not get needed oxygen). Hundreds of people die from carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide poisoning every year because of gas leaks and cooking or heating indoors. Being at altitude can also make it harder to breath. Finally, a terrorist attack could put dust, chemical, biological, or nuclear contamination in the air or force you into a shelter that needs ventilation. Be aware of these dangers and have appropriate detectors if possible (smoke, carbon monoxide, etc.). A wet cloth or hand wipe (carry on airplane) to breathe through can help for dust or smoke.

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