Hurricane Irene Path

The east coast of the United States is no stranger to hurricanes, but at the same time it is not an expert. Countries in the Caribbean know the procedure well of how to prepare for the worst when it comes to hurricanes, but some east coast states are not as ready. Hurricane Irene is currently hovering between a category 2 and 3 hurricane with winds in the 110 miles per hour range. As it moved through the Caribbean, hurricane Irene left behind plenty of damage. Now Irene has set its path to the east coast of the United States. The likelihood of Irene hitting the east coast is quite high; therefore many states have already declared a state of emergency. These states include the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. By declaring a state of emergency, the state opens up certain funds and procedures.


As hurricane Irene makes its way towards the east coast, many people are preparing for it. This includes buying up various supplies ranging from water to flash lights. The sale of generators has sky rocketed as well. Medical supplies are also high on the list of priority items. One medical device on the list is a pulse oximeter. A pulse oximeter, also known as a pulse ox, is a medical device used to measure the blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate of an individual. Individuals with respiratory illnesses are buying a finger pulse oximeter so that they can continuously monitor their oxygen levels. These people normally would go to their local doctor's office for these readings. A modern pulse oximeter allows for people to take their readings at home or on the go, since it is small and compact. The cost of a pulse oximeter is very reasonable as well compared to just five years ago. As their popularity rises, its price comes down.




































A pulse oximeter will not stop hurricane Irene, or even slow it down, but it does give thousands of people with respiratory problems some peace of mind that they can monitor their own oxygen if times get tough. Reports of hurricane Irene indicate that this may be one of the worst storms the east coast has seen in over half a century. States have already started to evacuate thousands of people from coastal cities and towns. The east coast is just hoping that Irene will go easy on it considering a faltering economy.