Two weeks ago, the world watched as massive tornadoes ripped through Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee in the United States. After the dust settled, reports claim 425 tornadoes touched down in the South, destroying neighborhoods, killing more than 300 and injuring thousands of residents.
From the National Guard to U.S. power companies to local medical personnel, thousands of workers and volunteers are coming together to help communities heal and rebuild – and lithium-ion batteries are playing a big part in relief efforts.
The most immediate concern following the deadly tornadoes was finding injured citizens and delivering medical services. Lithium-ion medical devices such as handheld orthopedic surgical devices, injection pumps and x-ray machines were all used as Alabama hospitals saw more than 1,500 patients flood emergency rooms the night of the storms. Many patients who use home healthcare services are experiencing a disruption in service because of demolished homes, ruined supplies and impassable roads. Lithium-ion powered medical devices enable patients and caregivers—from doctors to family members—to monitor patients’ biological trends and events throughout the continuum of care.
In addition, search and rescue crews have worked tirelessly to sift through rubble, find trapped victims and clear roadways for emergency vehicles. Many of these brave men and women are armed with lithium-ion power tools because they exert 40 percent more power per pound than those using nickel-based batteries. Moreover, lithium-ion power tools retain a longer charge and don’t lose capacity after repeated charging. Power tools are in such demand that in Tuscaloosa, hardware stores are finding it difficult to keep chainsaws in stock as relief crews work to clear debris.
In the wake of these storms, some communities in “tornado alley” and across the U.S. are examining their emergency sirens to ensure proper warning is given during severe weather. Many cities still use electrical sirens that cease to operate during power outages, rather than digital emergency sirens with battery back-up power—which lithium-ion technology would be a perfect fit for. In addition, citizens are preparing household emergency kits that include lithium-ion battery devices such as radios, personal alarms and personal medical devices.
Here at Palladium Energy, we send our thoughts and prayers to those devastated by April’s storms. If you would like to contribute to relief efforts, please visit the American Red Cross’ website.
– Rebecca Kritzman, director of marketing
