REST
UK have yet to be used at a real event, but as our links with the UK
Fire Service Search and Rescue team grows ever stronger, we would like
to be prepared with aromatherapy supplies, as we know their needs will
be similar to the firefighters of New York. REST UK may be able to join
the USAR team when they attend earthquake disasters abroad. Recent countries
where earthquakes have occurred have been in Iran and India where the
climate can add to the health problems of rescue workers as well as
the physical and psychological effects that can occur when searching
for bodies.
Aromatherapy products that have been proved useful with rescue work
were those that are uplifting and refreshing.
Mosquito sprays are invaluable, and spritzers for cooling off. Empty plastic spray bottles could be used to make more.
Besides
mosquitoes, there can be a lot of mould where there is a lot of water
damage. The daily temperatures can soar above 30C, so cooling sprays,
soaps, etc as well as respiratory/ purifying blends to clear the air.
Uplifting blends are welcome as many experience depression, PTSD symptoms,
and other stress related conditions.
The critical need is always respiratory blends, preferably already blended,
packaged and ready to hand out. Small bottles of undiluted EO blends that
they can drip onto mask pads or hankies or into humidifiers for inhalation
are helpful.
Sprays are the simplest and easiest to use and plastic bottles are easy
and lightweight- remember we have to carry these around, along with chairs,
and other supplies!
Rich creamy lotions for hands, and massage blends for sinus and chest
applications are always popular. Again, small units to give out are most
efficient for us to disperse.
Aromatherapy Products of all types are needed to give out to the people
we work on, or to use during our work on them (diffusers, sprays, oils)
and for ourselves to keep ourselves going. We keep a diffuser going in
our rooms to keep us healthy and happy and have several favourite topical
blends such as adrenal blends, migraine sticks, and insect repellents,
as the work is gruelling and not always in nice places
Labels: Make sure any donated products are SAFE for application. it's
helpful if the labels on your contributions contain a description (diffuser
blend, massage) and a listing of ingredients (no irritants or sensitizers)
especially if they are to be given away to individuals for home use. Your
company/personal name as well as REST UK would be helpful (for tractability).
Funds: Of course, financial assistance is always needed!
The
idea for aromatherapy products during emergency rescue work was started
by Sylla Sheppard-Hanger, Director of the Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy.
Click here for more info.
© REST UK