Disasters happen. In some instances, we may know that a catastrophe is probable, such as in the situation of a hurricane. These situations allow disaster relief organizations to prepare in advance for the problem, so they are ready to go the moment it happens. Other times, however, disasters happen out of nowhere. Things like tornadoes, flooding, and even global pandemics like we saw with COVID-19 can appear whether we are paying attention or not. Yet, relief is still needed immediately, and a medical tent is an efficient way to get relief started quickly. Medical tents aid disaster relief by providing the ideal location in the field for treating injuries and offering medical treatment.
The Need for Medical Tent Solutions
Although varying in severity, injuries will almost always happen when disaster strikes. It does not matter whether you are dealing with an expected tragedy or one that came out of the blue. It is human nature to always be at risk of injury, and natural disasters often have higher death rates. Thankfully, disaster relief crews are always ready to step in with the right resources when injuries happen.
And these resources will usually always include a medical tent. The area under these tents provides a safe and secure space for many to treat minor injuries and stabilize bigger ones. It is important to note, though, that not all of these tents are created equal. All tents have specific strengths and weaknesses. Some tents are designed to be successful in a disaster relief setting, while others are not.
The Ideal Medical Tent
For those involved in disaster relief, whether at the local, state, or national level, being prepared at a moment’s notice is critical – especially if you are looking to tend to as many individuals as possible. It would help if you had specific tools to aid disaster areas- including a medical tent. But medic help goes far beyond just people helping people. To create the ideal medical tent, there are several important characteristics to keep in mind, including:
Quick Setup
When getting help to the people who need it most in a disaster situation, you need a tent with a quick setup. A long delay due to the construction of a tent can cost lives – and it is not an option. A medical tent with disaster relief in mind will be quick to set up every time.
Long-Lasting Durability
Disaster relief tends to all sorts of locations where disasters occurred. And in some of these instances, the threat, dangers, or outdoor conditions don’t change immediately. Many times, relief workers will need to begin offering their services before the conditions in the area improve. As a result, the structures they use will have to be sturdy and durable. This could mean flooding, rain, snow, ice, etc. Medical tents aid in disaster relief while standing up to the outdoor elements and inclement weather. They are designed to provide a structure that can withstand wind and snow loads.
Roof and Sidewalls
One of the essential things that are required for a medical tent is the roof and sidewalls of the structure. As we mentioned above, weather and outdoor conditions often pose a risk during relief efforts. It would be best if you had a roof and sidewall combined with the necessity of keeping safe and clean standards for addressing wounds and medical issues. Medical tents are designed with each of these – and they ensure that they are flame retardant and securely designed so the focus can remain on the patient at all times. It’s worth mentioning that they are solid for privacy.
Even Footing
Flooring is just as important as the roof! While these tents can be erected on any surface, you may want to forego the grass, dirt, and gravel when being used as a medical tent. Maneuvering patients in and out of the tent and keeping a steady hand when treating them will require a hard, flat flooring surface. An easy-to-clean surface makes it easier to help keep the area more sterile. You can find all of these traits with a medical tent.
Wide-Open Spaces
Every disaster relief call is different from the one before it. You never know how many people may need help from the medics or what the most common issue will be. Because medical tents have wide-open spaces, so you can design them how you need them to make the most significant impact and prevent injury as much as possible.
Custom Sizing
Medical tents can be customized to meet your size requirements. Not every medic tent will be the size of a mini hospital. Most are big enough to handle primary wound care and stabilization before transporting patients to the hospital. Others need even more and require additional space. Customizing a tent’s size and space makes it a great asset as a medical tent.
Location Flexibility
Another ideal trait of a medical tent is its ability to be erected on any site. Depending on the situation, the disaster may occur in an area of soft sand or hard clay. It could have a lot of grassy or gravel areas or maybe just miles of asphalt or concrete. The good news is that no matter where you need your tent, you can construct it there. Medical tents are very flexible when it comes to their location.
Electrical Capabilities
Lighting, tools, and medical equipment need electrical power to run. And that means a medical tent will have electrical capabilities. It will allow you to use everything necessary to ensure treatment success for those in need.
Climate-Controlled Storage
These medical tents can maintain formal climate control, such as with an HVAC system that offers heating, air conditioning, and ventilation, which is vital in the healthcare industry. However, the fabric they are made with works to keep hot temperatures on in the summer and cold temperatures during the winter.
A ‘Big Tent’ Approach to Healthcare Integration
There are several things necessary for effective disaster relief – and medical tents are one of them. And the ideal medical tent will allow you to treat everything from minor to severe medical issues with ease – and boost survival rates.
