Tuesday, August 31, 2010
DRIVE SOBER, ATTENTIVE, AND BUCKLED UP THIS LABOR DAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND
News Release from: Oregon State Police
(Correction to Captain Samuels phone number to read 934-0221)
Posted: August 31st, 2010 12:46 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2010-08/1002/37940/OSP.Badge.jpg
(Note: Media requests for ride-alongs or interviews should be directed to your local OSP office. A list of OSP office numbers is available in the Regional Contact Information link on our website)
***
Impaired driving is a serious problem, one that law enforcement officers in Oregon and around the country will continue to target through the Labor Day holiday weekend as part of a national campaign, "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.". This is one of two national traffic safety campaigns aimed to prevent and reduce injuries and deaths on our highways around the holiday weekend.
Police officers in Oregon and around the country started stepping up impaired driving enforcement efforts August 20, and are keeping the pressure on through the holiday weekend, September 3 - 6. Coinciding with efforts to remove impaired drivers off the road is a statewide effort running August 30 through September 12 monitoring safety belt usage, with an emphasis on child passengers.
Last year during the national crackdown period, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers reported a 13 percent increase in the number of DUII arrests as compared to the previous year. The highly publicized enforcement efforts by Oregon police officers may have had an impact as the Labor Day holiday weekend approached. Prior to the holiday weekend OSP troopers reported a 60 percent jump in the number of reported DUII arrests, but during the holiday weekend reported DUII arrests dropped 18 percent drop compared to the 2008 Labor Day holiday period.
Fatal crash statistics tracked by ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) indicate the Labor Day holiday period is historically the second deadliest on Oregon roads. Since 1970, an average of seven traffic-related deaths happens in Oregon each year during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Last year, two people died on Oregon roads during the 78-hour reporting period, September 4 – 7. One victim was the lone occupant in a single vehicle rollover crash in Josephine County and the second was a pedestrian who died five days after being struck in Klamath County.
OSP Captain Joel Lujan, Patrol Services Division director, pointed out that while it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher in every state, impairment may start with the first drink, particularly when mixed with other substances.
"All too often, innocent people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of a loved one due to this careless disregard for human life. We continue our commitment to stopping this carnage, intensifying enforcement efforts and being especially vigilant during high-risk nighttime hours when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads," said Lujan.
The Transportation Safety Division (TSD) of ODOT supports Oregon's law enforcement agencies as they work together to crackdown on impaired drivers.
"We applaud all of our officers and those who support their enforcement efforts by planning ahead and pledging not to drink and drive. Everyone wins when our roads are safer," said Troy E. Costales, TSD administrator.
The Oregon State Police, Oregon State Sheriff's Association, Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, and Oregon Department of Transportation offer the following safety reminders for holiday travel:
* Be watchful for emergency vehicles and workers. MOVE OVER if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated.
* Get plenty of rest before starting out. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
* Be aware that ODOT is in the midst of the busiest highway construction season ever. Stay up to date on road conditions by visiting TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1. Outside Oregon, dial (503) 588-2941. Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
* Know before you go. When traveling anywhere, plan ahead and take know routes if possible. Visiting TripCheck.com on the Internet provides information on road and weather conditions, incidents and traffic delays, and links to numerous cameras along major routes.
* Buckle up every trip, every time. Be sure to use child safety seats correctly.
* Don't drink and drive.
Lujan urged everyone to play an important part in keeping our highways and city streets safe by immediately reporting aggressive, dangerous, and intoxicated drivers to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195
Shelley Snow
ODOT Public Affairs
Phone: (503) 986-3438
(Correction to Captain Samuels phone number to read 934-0221)
Posted: August 31st, 2010 12:46 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2010-08/1002/37940/OSP.Badge.jpg
(Note: Media requests for ride-alongs or interviews should be directed to your local OSP office. A list of OSP office numbers is available in the Regional Contact Information link on our website)
***
Impaired driving is a serious problem, one that law enforcement officers in Oregon and around the country will continue to target through the Labor Day holiday weekend as part of a national campaign, "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.". This is one of two national traffic safety campaigns aimed to prevent and reduce injuries and deaths on our highways around the holiday weekend.
Police officers in Oregon and around the country started stepping up impaired driving enforcement efforts August 20, and are keeping the pressure on through the holiday weekend, September 3 - 6. Coinciding with efforts to remove impaired drivers off the road is a statewide effort running August 30 through September 12 monitoring safety belt usage, with an emphasis on child passengers.
Last year during the national crackdown period, Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers reported a 13 percent increase in the number of DUII arrests as compared to the previous year. The highly publicized enforcement efforts by Oregon police officers may have had an impact as the Labor Day holiday weekend approached. Prior to the holiday weekend OSP troopers reported a 60 percent jump in the number of reported DUII arrests, but during the holiday weekend reported DUII arrests dropped 18 percent drop compared to the 2008 Labor Day holiday period.
Fatal crash statistics tracked by ODOT's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) indicate the Labor Day holiday period is historically the second deadliest on Oregon roads. Since 1970, an average of seven traffic-related deaths happens in Oregon each year during the Labor Day holiday weekend. Last year, two people died on Oregon roads during the 78-hour reporting period, September 4 – 7. One victim was the lone occupant in a single vehicle rollover crash in Josephine County and the second was a pedestrian who died five days after being struck in Klamath County.
OSP Captain Joel Lujan, Patrol Services Division director, pointed out that while it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher in every state, impairment may start with the first drink, particularly when mixed with other substances.
"All too often, innocent people suffer tragic consequences and the loss of a loved one due to this careless disregard for human life. We continue our commitment to stopping this carnage, intensifying enforcement efforts and being especially vigilant during high-risk nighttime hours when impaired drivers are most likely to be on our roads," said Lujan.
The Transportation Safety Division (TSD) of ODOT supports Oregon's law enforcement agencies as they work together to crackdown on impaired drivers.
"We applaud all of our officers and those who support their enforcement efforts by planning ahead and pledging not to drink and drive. Everyone wins when our roads are safer," said Troy E. Costales, TSD administrator.
The Oregon State Police, Oregon State Sheriff's Association, Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, and Oregon Department of Transportation offer the following safety reminders for holiday travel:
* Be watchful for emergency vehicles and workers. MOVE OVER if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated.
* Get plenty of rest before starting out. Fatigued drivers are more frequent during holiday weekends because of increased travel and activity. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
* Be aware that ODOT is in the midst of the busiest highway construction season ever. Stay up to date on road conditions by visiting TripCheck.com or calling 5-1-1. Outside Oregon, dial (503) 588-2941. Even when workers are not present, all work zone speed limits still apply and fines double. Inactive work zones still have equipment, detours, and incomplete changes in the roadway so drivers need to slow down and be alert.
* Know before you go. When traveling anywhere, plan ahead and take know routes if possible. Visiting TripCheck.com on the Internet provides information on road and weather conditions, incidents and traffic delays, and links to numerous cameras along major routes.
* Buckle up every trip, every time. Be sure to use child safety seats correctly.
* Don't drink and drive.
Lujan urged everyone to play an important part in keeping our highways and city streets safe by immediately reporting aggressive, dangerous, and intoxicated drivers to the Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865) or call 9-1-1.
### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Contact Info: Lieutenant Gregg Hastings
Public Information Officer
Office: (503) 731-3020 ext. 247
Pager: (503) 323-3195
Shelley Snow
ODOT Public Affairs
Phone: (503) 986-3438
Monday, August 30, 2010
What is National Preparedness Month?
NPM is held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities.
September 2010 is the seventh annual NPM. This year will focus on encouraging Americans to work together to take concrete actions toward emergency preparedness. We are encouraging all Americans to join the readiness team and truly help themselves, their neighbors and their communities be Ready.
• NPM Coalition membership is open to all public and private sector organizations. Groups can register to become an NPM Coalition Member by visiting ready.gov and clicking on the NPM banner.
• In 2009, nearly 2,700 organizations joined the Ready Campaign in promoting the readiness message across the country in homes, schools, businesses, and communities to highlight the importance of individual and community public emergency preparedness throughout September.
• During NPM, Coalition Members share preparedness information with their members, customers, employees, and communities. Members spearhead activities that encourage specific steps for individual, neighborhood, and community preparedness.
• Throughout the year, the Ready Campaign promotes individual emergency preparedness. Ready is a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign, produced in partnership with The Advertising Council, to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.
• The Campaign’s Web sites (ready.gov and listo.gov) and toll-free numbers (1-800-BE-READY, TTY 1-800-462-7585, and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide Americans with free emergency preparedness information.
• Citizen Corps is FEMA's grassroots strategy to bring together government and community leaders to involve citizens in all-hazards emergency preparedness and resilience. Local Citizen Corps Councils enable collaborative planning between government and civic leaders and provide localized support for: outreach and educational efforts to the public; training and exercises that effectively integrate all sectors of the community; and volunteer programs that augment the full range of emergency response services.
For more information about Citizen Corps, visit www.citizencorps.gov.
September 2010 is the seventh annual NPM. This year will focus on encouraging Americans to work together to take concrete actions toward emergency preparedness. We are encouraging all Americans to join the readiness team and truly help themselves, their neighbors and their communities be Ready.
• NPM Coalition membership is open to all public and private sector organizations. Groups can register to become an NPM Coalition Member by visiting ready.gov and clicking on the NPM banner.
• In 2009, nearly 2,700 organizations joined the Ready Campaign in promoting the readiness message across the country in homes, schools, businesses, and communities to highlight the importance of individual and community public emergency preparedness throughout September.
• During NPM, Coalition Members share preparedness information with their members, customers, employees, and communities. Members spearhead activities that encourage specific steps for individual, neighborhood, and community preparedness.
• Throughout the year, the Ready Campaign promotes individual emergency preparedness. Ready is a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign, produced in partnership with The Advertising Council, to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.
• The Campaign’s Web sites (ready.gov and listo.gov) and toll-free numbers (1-800-BE-READY, TTY 1-800-462-7585, and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide Americans with free emergency preparedness information.
• Citizen Corps is FEMA's grassroots strategy to bring together government and community leaders to involve citizens in all-hazards emergency preparedness and resilience. Local Citizen Corps Councils enable collaborative planning between government and civic leaders and provide localized support for: outreach and educational efforts to the public; training and exercises that effectively integrate all sectors of the community; and volunteer programs that augment the full range of emergency response services.
For more information about Citizen Corps, visit www.citizencorps.gov.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Free Children Identification Kits
For the third year, the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse will hand out free Children Identification Kits, available in Spanish and English, during the 2010 Oregon State Fair in Salem. In addition to handing out kits on two separate dates mentioned below, State Police employees will also offer to take and print photographs of a child to place inside the kit to take home. The Child ID Kits will be made available on the listed dates at the Oregon State Police table located near the amphitheater.
During the last two years, 14,000 free Children Identification Kits and 3,200 brochures were handed out by OSP at the state fair. The ID Complete Child Identification and DNA kits contain the cheek swab for DNA collection, and the kits only take a few minutes to fill out with valuable information useful to police in the event that a child is missing.
"As of today there are approximately 800 kids under the age of 18 listed in LEDS/NCIC as missing by Oregon law enforcement area agencies of which over 92 percent are runaways 4 - 5 percent are victims of custodial interference, and the remaining are missing under unknown circumstances," says Judy Hayes of the Oregon State Police Missing Children Clearinghouse. "These kits continue to be a wonderful proactive method to be prepared in case your child ever becomes missing, and they are also a great way to help open up communication lines with your children regarding child safety."
The free child ID Complete kits will be available on the following dates and times:
* Monday, August 30th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
* Wednesday, September 1st, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The child ID Complete kits were purchased with money raised during the annual Oregon State Police Missing Children Golf Benefit held in Salem last month, raising $12,500 which was the second highest amount in the benefit's twelve years. This year's golf benefit fundraiser will help purchase approximately 18,000 ID Complete Kits available for distribution through the Missing Children Clearinghouse.
Parents and families not attending the Oregon State Fair may obtain a child ID Complete kit from the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse at (503) 934-0188 or outside Salem at 1-800-282-7155 or e-mail child.idkits@state.or.us. Please provide your name, address, number of kits needed and a call back phone number when making a request.
During the last two years, 14,000 free Children Identification Kits and 3,200 brochures were handed out by OSP at the state fair. The ID Complete Child Identification and DNA kits contain the cheek swab for DNA collection, and the kits only take a few minutes to fill out with valuable information useful to police in the event that a child is missing.
"As of today there are approximately 800 kids under the age of 18 listed in LEDS/NCIC as missing by Oregon law enforcement area agencies of which over 92 percent are runaways 4 - 5 percent are victims of custodial interference, and the remaining are missing under unknown circumstances," says Judy Hayes of the Oregon State Police Missing Children Clearinghouse. "These kits continue to be a wonderful proactive method to be prepared in case your child ever becomes missing, and they are also a great way to help open up communication lines with your children regarding child safety."
The free child ID Complete kits will be available on the following dates and times:
* Monday, August 30th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
* Wednesday, September 1st, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The child ID Complete kits were purchased with money raised during the annual Oregon State Police Missing Children Golf Benefit held in Salem last month, raising $12,500 which was the second highest amount in the benefit's twelve years. This year's golf benefit fundraiser will help purchase approximately 18,000 ID Complete Kits available for distribution through the Missing Children Clearinghouse.
Parents and families not attending the Oregon State Fair may obtain a child ID Complete kit from the Oregon State Police - Missing Children Clearinghouse at (503) 934-0188 or outside Salem at 1-800-282-7155 or e-mail child.idkits@state.or.us. Please provide your name, address, number of kits needed and a call back phone number when making a request.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
CSEPP Siren Test Scheduled For Tuesday, August 31st
Pendleton, Ore. -- A test of the Oregon Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP)siren system is scheduled for noon on Tuesday, August 31. The test coincides with tests of CSEPP sirens onthe Umatilla Chemical Depot and in Benton County, Washington.
The 76 sirens will begin the test with a verbal message in English and Spanish reminding people that it is only a test. The message will be followed by sounding of the Westminster chimes. In a chemical emergency, the sirens would blare a distinctly different alert tone for three-minutes followed by instructions in English and Spanish.
Highway message reader boards along I-82 and I-84 will also be tested Tuesday. Motorists will see a reminder of the noon siren test displayed. The sirens and highway reader boards are two of five public warning systems that would be activated by emergency management officials in the event of a chemical emergency at the Umatilla Chemical Depot. The sirens, highway message reader boards and highway advisory radio would alert people who are outdoors.
Tone Alert Radios and the Emergency Alert System would alert people indoors. For more information on public warning systems surrounding the Umatilla Chemical Depot, visit www.csepp.net. Click on "Warning Systems".
For information on how to prepare for emergencies contact Umatilla County Emergency Management toll free at (877) 367-2737, Morrow County Emergency Management at (541) 922-5262 or visit www.csepp.net.
The 76 sirens will begin the test with a verbal message in English and Spanish reminding people that it is only a test. The message will be followed by sounding of the Westminster chimes. In a chemical emergency, the sirens would blare a distinctly different alert tone for three-minutes followed by instructions in English and Spanish.
Highway message reader boards along I-82 and I-84 will also be tested Tuesday. Motorists will see a reminder of the noon siren test displayed. The sirens and highway reader boards are two of five public warning systems that would be activated by emergency management officials in the event of a chemical emergency at the Umatilla Chemical Depot. The sirens, highway message reader boards and highway advisory radio would alert people who are outdoors.
Tone Alert Radios and the Emergency Alert System would alert people indoors. For more information on public warning systems surrounding the Umatilla Chemical Depot, visit www.csepp.net. Click on "Warning Systems".
For information on how to prepare for emergencies contact Umatilla County Emergency Management toll free at (877) 367-2737, Morrow County Emergency Management at (541) 922-5262 or visit www.csepp.net.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
US unprepared for Nuke Attack?
A report released earlier this year by Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster Preparedness argues that “the U.S. remains unprepared to cope with the possibility of an attack on a major city by terrorists capable of acquiring and detonating an improvised nuclear device” — and urges a public education effort to inform Americans on what they should do in the event of a nuclear detonation to best mitigate its effects.
The study, “Regional Health and Public Health Preparedness for Nuclear Terrorism: Optimizing Survival in a Low Probability/High Consequence Disaster,” is authored by Irwin Redlener, Andrew L. Garrett, Karen L. Levin and Andrew Mener. It was released while this blog was on hiatus so I am posting it now.
The authors contend that our lack of preparedness is in part a result of a lack of understanding that there are things that actually can be done in response:
Although the detonation of a low-yield IND in an American city is one of the 15 planning scenarios developed by the White House Homeland Security Council for use in security preparedness activities, local and regional emergency planning activities have not given attention commensurate to this threat. Barriers to planning for such a catastrophic event are not well understood but may be related to fatalistic beliefs or concepts of improbability, with many believing that other disasters are more probable and merit the focus of emergency planners.
But protective actions will be most useful if they are known in advance:
Following a nuclear detonation, a response based on threat-specific strategies will be essential to maximize time-sensitive life-saving opportunities. Public protective actions to reduce exposure and injury, critical within the first hours, will depend greatly upon a well thought out, pre-event messaging strategy and the ability to communicate easily-understood information to the public. The risk for injury and nuclear detonation effects does not end after the initial blast; the public must understand the correct protective actions and when to take them throughout the response and recovery phases.
The report explains that “in the minutes and hours after the detonation of an IND, the public would need to make a few key decisions in order to maximize their chances of surviving and minimize their injuries and long-term health effects”:
1. Is it better to evacuate now or later?
2. If I stay put, how should I shelter and decontaminate myself to prevent further injury?
3. When I do evacuate, where should I go to avoid placing myself at an increased risk from fallout?
…Individuals will very likely need to make these decisions in the absence of official directions. If local health officials are to dramatically increase the percentage of affected people who can survive, they must make the public aware of the benefits of these initial life-saving responses actions and of knowing what to do in an emergency.
Despite the benefits that these simple protective measures can have, it seems that the widely-known images of the nuclear devastation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and subsequent fictionalized portrayals of nuclear conflict in movies and television-program images of total nuclear devastation have led people to conclude either that preparedness is impossible or that the federal government already must have done everything in its power to protect the country. Both assumptions are inaccurate.
The study recommends what the U.S. should do to address this lack of readiness:
In the United States, virtually no public education has taken place about what an individual should do in the event of a nuclear detonation, although there is urgent and critical need for such education, especially for those living in potential target areas. Also lacking are pre-developed, exercised and well-tested communication plans to deliver rapid information from officials to the public following a nuclear incident…
…A public education campaign that addressed these issues could save lives and reduce injury in the gray zone by empowering the public to initiate life-saving actions without the need for official advice, which may never arrive. Immediate protective actions in the first moments after a detonation are critical. Considering that it might be impossible to get emergency messages to the public after a detonation, it is sensible to equip the public now with basic information on how to best protect themselves and their family should they ever confront this type of disaster.
The study, “Regional Health and Public Health Preparedness for Nuclear Terrorism: Optimizing Survival in a Low Probability/High Consequence Disaster,” is authored by Irwin Redlener, Andrew L. Garrett, Karen L. Levin and Andrew Mener. It was released while this blog was on hiatus so I am posting it now.
The authors contend that our lack of preparedness is in part a result of a lack of understanding that there are things that actually can be done in response:
Although the detonation of a low-yield IND in an American city is one of the 15 planning scenarios developed by the White House Homeland Security Council for use in security preparedness activities, local and regional emergency planning activities have not given attention commensurate to this threat. Barriers to planning for such a catastrophic event are not well understood but may be related to fatalistic beliefs or concepts of improbability, with many believing that other disasters are more probable and merit the focus of emergency planners.
But protective actions will be most useful if they are known in advance:
Following a nuclear detonation, a response based on threat-specific strategies will be essential to maximize time-sensitive life-saving opportunities. Public protective actions to reduce exposure and injury, critical within the first hours, will depend greatly upon a well thought out, pre-event messaging strategy and the ability to communicate easily-understood information to the public. The risk for injury and nuclear detonation effects does not end after the initial blast; the public must understand the correct protective actions and when to take them throughout the response and recovery phases.
The report explains that “in the minutes and hours after the detonation of an IND, the public would need to make a few key decisions in order to maximize their chances of surviving and minimize their injuries and long-term health effects”:
1. Is it better to evacuate now or later?
2. If I stay put, how should I shelter and decontaminate myself to prevent further injury?
3. When I do evacuate, where should I go to avoid placing myself at an increased risk from fallout?
…Individuals will very likely need to make these decisions in the absence of official directions. If local health officials are to dramatically increase the percentage of affected people who can survive, they must make the public aware of the benefits of these initial life-saving responses actions and of knowing what to do in an emergency.
Despite the benefits that these simple protective measures can have, it seems that the widely-known images of the nuclear devastation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and subsequent fictionalized portrayals of nuclear conflict in movies and television-program images of total nuclear devastation have led people to conclude either that preparedness is impossible or that the federal government already must have done everything in its power to protect the country. Both assumptions are inaccurate.
The study recommends what the U.S. should do to address this lack of readiness:
In the United States, virtually no public education has taken place about what an individual should do in the event of a nuclear detonation, although there is urgent and critical need for such education, especially for those living in potential target areas. Also lacking are pre-developed, exercised and well-tested communication plans to deliver rapid information from officials to the public following a nuclear incident…
…A public education campaign that addressed these issues could save lives and reduce injury in the gray zone by empowering the public to initiate life-saving actions without the need for official advice, which may never arrive. Immediate protective actions in the first moments after a detonation are critical. Considering that it might be impossible to get emergency messages to the public after a detonation, it is sensible to equip the public now with basic information on how to best protect themselves and their family should they ever confront this type of disaster.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Wildfire east of Gov’t Camp forces some to evacuate
From KATU - PORTLAND, Ore. - The White Lightning Complex fire east of Government Camp and on the Warm Springs Reservation has forced several people to evacuate and is now more than 24,000 acres in size.
The fire is five times bigger than it was Friday and is only 10 percent contained. Dry brush is fueling the blaze. Firefighters dumped water on the flames from the air on Monday but efforts to fight the fire are being frustrated by bone-dry conditions.
100 rafters were stranded on the Deschutes River over the weekend. While some escaped, others floated through the night to safety.
Three structures have burned and another 25 are threatened.
The fire is five times bigger than it was Friday and is only 10 percent contained. Dry brush is fueling the blaze. Firefighters dumped water on the flames from the air on Monday but efforts to fight the fire are being frustrated by bone-dry conditions.
100 rafters were stranded on the Deschutes River over the weekend. While some escaped, others floated through the night to safety.
Three structures have burned and another 25 are threatened.
Monday, August 23, 2010
National Preparedness Month is Almost Here!
There are only 8 days left until National Preparedness Month (NPM)! If you haven’t done so already, please consider joining the NPM Coalition. More than 2,800 organizations have signed up so far. Help us reach our goal of more than 3,200!
NPM is designed to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. NPM Coalition membership is open to all public and private sector organizations for free. By joining the Coalition your organization would agree to promote emergency preparedness during the month of September.
Once you register you will receive access to the NPM Web site where you can find a toolkit that includes templates, resources, and tips to assist you with promoting emergency preparedness. You will also find an NPM calendar where you can post your events and see what other organizations are doing in your community. In addition, can share your success stories and read about the successes of others.
You can register to become an NPM Coalition Member by visiting http://ready.adcouncil.org. To learn more about NPM, visit www.ready.gov and click on the NPM banner. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Ready Campaign at NPM@dhs.gov.
NPM is designed to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. NPM Coalition membership is open to all public and private sector organizations for free. By joining the Coalition your organization would agree to promote emergency preparedness during the month of September.
Once you register you will receive access to the NPM Web site where you can find a toolkit that includes templates, resources, and tips to assist you with promoting emergency preparedness. You will also find an NPM calendar where you can post your events and see what other organizations are doing in your community. In addition, can share your success stories and read about the successes of others.
You can register to become an NPM Coalition Member by visiting http://ready.adcouncil.org. To learn more about NPM, visit www.ready.gov and click on the NPM banner. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Ready Campaign at NPM@dhs.gov.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Are you prepared?
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. Imagine that you are confined to your home or vehicle with no electricity, no gas, no water and no telephone service. Imagine that all businesses are closed and you are without any kind of emergency services. What will you do until help arrives? How you endure a disaster depends on preparedness planning done today.
You can't afford to be unprepared!
September is National Preparedness Month by proclamation of the Governor.
Make your own kit or buy one online. One good website is www.quakedog.com/emergencykits72
You can't afford to be unprepared!
September is National Preparedness Month by proclamation of the Governor.
Make your own kit or buy one online. One good website is www.quakedog.com/emergencykits72
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Von Pinnon: Emergency alert systems should get with the times | INFORUM | Fargo, ND
Von Pinnon: Emergency alert systems should get with the times INFORUM Fargo, ND
This summer’s excessive severe weather – some of it deadly – has really awakened us to a much bigger issue that has more to do with how we live today.
After all, dangerous and deadly weather is as old as weather itself.
But how we learn about it before it potentially harms us largely depends on how we communicate, and how we communicate is changing about as fast as the weather around here.
Check out the link for the rest of the article. Thanks
Jennifer
This summer’s excessive severe weather – some of it deadly – has really awakened us to a much bigger issue that has more to do with how we live today.
After all, dangerous and deadly weather is as old as weather itself.
But how we learn about it before it potentially harms us largely depends on how we communicate, and how we communicate is changing about as fast as the weather around here.
Check out the link for the rest of the article. Thanks
Jennifer
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Storms Coming this Week, Then Cooling
Looks like meteorologists are predicting a few days of fast-moving thunderstorms in southern Oregon before the weather cools down.
Scattered thunderstorms could pepper the region with lightning strikes on Tuesday before temperatures cool this week, the National Weather Service warns.
The Medford office of the weather service issued a fire weather watch for Tuesday for parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California.
Read more about the prediction at http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100816/NEWS07/8160321/-1/NEWSMAP.
Scattered thunderstorms could pepper the region with lightning strikes on Tuesday before temperatures cool this week, the National Weather Service warns.
The Medford office of the weather service issued a fire weather watch for Tuesday for parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California.
Read more about the prediction at http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100816/NEWS07/8160321/-1/NEWSMAP.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Small Fire Stopped near Sisters
A small fire was discovered and stopped near Sisters.
Aided by calm winds, firefighters, helicopters and air tankers quickly doused a small new wildfire five miles southwest of Sisters Monday afternoon as the National Weather Service issued a “Fire Weather Watch,” warning of thunderstorms over the next couple of days.
It includes a summary of the other fires going on in Oregon right now:
Wildfires broke out over the weekend north of Burns (contained at 33 acres) and the Round Valley Fire southeast of Bonanza in Klamath County (70 percent contained by Monday at about 165 acres), but areas west of the Cascades had even hotter temperatures and also had new fires.
The Oak Flat Fire on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has grown to an estimated 500 acres, about 20 miles west of Grants Pass. The heat and wind sent firebrands sparking spot fires up to a half-mile away on Sunday.
The 74-acre Garnish Valley Fire in the state Department of Forestry's Forest Grove District in northwest Oregon was reported Saturday evening and has been contained.
Check it out at http://www.ktvz.com/news/24648745/detail.html.
Aided by calm winds, firefighters, helicopters and air tankers quickly doused a small new wildfire five miles southwest of Sisters Monday afternoon as the National Weather Service issued a “Fire Weather Watch,” warning of thunderstorms over the next couple of days.
It includes a summary of the other fires going on in Oregon right now:
Wildfires broke out over the weekend north of Burns (contained at 33 acres) and the Round Valley Fire southeast of Bonanza in Klamath County (70 percent contained by Monday at about 165 acres), but areas west of the Cascades had even hotter temperatures and also had new fires.
The Oak Flat Fire on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has grown to an estimated 500 acres, about 20 miles west of Grants Pass. The heat and wind sent firebrands sparking spot fires up to a half-mile away on Sunday.
The 74-acre Garnish Valley Fire in the state Department of Forestry's Forest Grove District in northwest Oregon was reported Saturday evening and has been contained.
Check it out at http://www.ktvz.com/news/24648745/detail.html.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
FEMA Urges You to Take Part in National Preparedness Month
Received this email from FEMA:
This September, organizations and citizens from across the nation will come together for the seventh annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), designed to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. FEMA’s Ready Campaign is asking organizations to take part by joining the National Preparedness Month Coalition, committing simply to inform members, employees, and customers about the importance of being prepared for emergencies, large and small. Registering for the Coalition is easy – visit http://ready.adcouncil.org/. Coalition members will be listed on the NPM Web site and receive a toolkit with templates, tools and ideas. For more information about NPM, visit: www.Ready.gov.
Sample of National Preparedness Month Educational Tools Available:
This September, organizations and citizens from across the nation will come together for the seventh annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), designed to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. FEMA’s Ready Campaign is asking organizations to take part by joining the National Preparedness Month Coalition, committing simply to inform members, employees, and customers about the importance of being prepared for emergencies, large and small. Registering for the Coalition is easy – visit http://ready.adcouncil.org/. Coalition members will be listed on the NPM Web site and receive a toolkit with templates, tools and ideas. For more information about NPM, visit: www.Ready.gov.
Sample of National Preparedness Month Educational Tools Available:
- Website Widgets http://www.fema.gov/help/widgets
- Ready campaign Widget: inform how to get a kit, make a plan and be informed.
- National Preparedness Month widget.
- Popular Links & Downloadable Materials
- Ready Campaign: www.ready.gov (English) and www.listo.gov (Español)
- Get an emergency supply kit: http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
- Family emergency plan: http://www.ready.gov/america/makeaplan/index.html
- Emergency supply kit list: http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/kit-print.html
- Newsletters /Articles
- E-mail for Employees, Members and Stakeholders.
- Newsletter /Web Site Article/ Blog Entry for a General Audience
- Newsletter/ Web site Article/ Blog Entry for Business Owners/ Managers Audience
- Bill Stuffers
- Instructional Videos
- Public Service Announcements
- Materials
- Poster
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
SM Cries for Help - 74 Percent Expect Help to Come
This is an interesting survey taken by the Red Cross. Just remember that in Oregon you can NOT text 911. You must call.
A new American Red Cross survey shows many web users would turn to social media to seek help for themselves or others during emergencies—and they expect first responders to be listening. The online survey asked 1,058 adults about their use of social media sites in emergency situations.
It found that if they needed help and couldn't reach 9-1-1, one in five would try to contact responders through a digital means such as e-mail, websites or social media. If web users knew of someone else who needed help, 44 percent would ask other people in their social network to contact authorities, 35 percent would post a request for help directly on a response agency's Facebook page and 28 percent would send a direct Twitter message to responders.
Web users also have clear expectations about how first responders should be answering their requests. The survey showed that 69 percent said that emergency responders should be monitoring social media sites in order to quickly send help—and nearly half believe a response agency is probably already responding to any urgent request they might see.
And the survey respondents expected quick response to an online appeal for help -- 74 percent expected help to come less than an hour after their tweet or Facebook post.
"The first and best choice for anyone in an emergency situation is to call 9-1-1," said Gail McGovern, American Red Cross president and CEO. "But when phone lines are down or the 9-1-1 system is overwhelmed, we know that people will be persistent in their quest for help and use social media for that purpose."
The Red Cross commissioned the survey in advance of an Emergency Social Data Summit set for Thursday, August 12, in Washington, D.C. The meeting, convened by the Red Cross, will bring together thought leaders and experts in the government, social media, emergency response and the non-profit sectors to discuss better ways to handle information that flows through the web during disasters.
"The social web is creating a fundamental shift in disaster response one that will ask emergency managers, government agencies and aid organizations to mix time-honored expertise with real-time input from the public," McGovern said. "We need to work together to better respond to that shift."
The Red Cross survey also found that among web users, social media sites are the fourth most popular source for emergency information, just behind television news, radio and online news sites. More web users say they get their emergency information from social media than from a NOAA weather radio, government website or emergency text message system. One in five social media users also report posting eyewitness accounts of emergency events to their accounts.
A new American Red Cross survey shows many web users would turn to social media to seek help for themselves or others during emergencies—and they expect first responders to be listening. The online survey asked 1,058 adults about their use of social media sites in emergency situations.
It found that if they needed help and couldn't reach 9-1-1, one in five would try to contact responders through a digital means such as e-mail, websites or social media. If web users knew of someone else who needed help, 44 percent would ask other people in their social network to contact authorities, 35 percent would post a request for help directly on a response agency's Facebook page and 28 percent would send a direct Twitter message to responders.
Web users also have clear expectations about how first responders should be answering their requests. The survey showed that 69 percent said that emergency responders should be monitoring social media sites in order to quickly send help—and nearly half believe a response agency is probably already responding to any urgent request they might see.
And the survey respondents expected quick response to an online appeal for help -- 74 percent expected help to come less than an hour after their tweet or Facebook post.
"The first and best choice for anyone in an emergency situation is to call 9-1-1," said Gail McGovern, American Red Cross president and CEO. "But when phone lines are down or the 9-1-1 system is overwhelmed, we know that people will be persistent in their quest for help and use social media for that purpose."
The Red Cross commissioned the survey in advance of an Emergency Social Data Summit set for Thursday, August 12, in Washington, D.C. The meeting, convened by the Red Cross, will bring together thought leaders and experts in the government, social media, emergency response and the non-profit sectors to discuss better ways to handle information that flows through the web during disasters.
"The social web is creating a fundamental shift in disaster response one that will ask emergency managers, government agencies and aid organizations to mix time-honored expertise with real-time input from the public," McGovern said. "We need to work together to better respond to that shift."
The Red Cross survey also found that among web users, social media sites are the fourth most popular source for emergency information, just behind television news, radio and online news sites. More web users say they get their emergency information from social media than from a NOAA weather radio, government website or emergency text message system. One in five social media users also report posting eyewitness accounts of emergency events to their accounts.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Emergency Supplies
When preparing for emergency situations, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. Encourage everyone to have a Portable Kit customized to meet personal needs, such as essential medications.
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View the Emergency Supplies
NOAA weather radio
With tone-alert feature, if possible, that automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued in your area. Tone-alert is not available in some areas.
Include extra batteries.
It is recommended that you have both a battery-powered commercial radio and a NOAA weather radio with an alert function. The NOAA weather radio can alert you to weather emergencies or announcements from the Department of Homeland Security. The commercial radio is a good source for news and information from local authorities.
Keep copies of important records such as site maps, building plans, insurance policies, employee contact and identification information, bank account records, supplier and shipping contact lists, computer backups, emergency or law enforcement contact information and other priority documents in a waterproof, fireproof portable container. Store a second set of records at an off-site location.
Talk to your co-workers about what emergency supplies the company can feasibly provide, if any, and which ones individuals should consider keeping on hand.
Recommended emergency supplies include the following:
Water, amounts for portable kits will vary. Individuals should determine what amount they are able to both store comfortably and to transport to other locations. If it is feasible, store one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
First Aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust or filter masks, readily available in hardware stores, which are rated based on how small a particle they filter
Moist towelettes for sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Plastic sheeting and duct tape to "seal the room"
Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
http://www.ready.gov/business/plan/emersupply.html
--------
View the Emergency Supplies
NOAA weather radio
With tone-alert feature, if possible, that automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued in your area. Tone-alert is not available in some areas.
Include extra batteries.
It is recommended that you have both a battery-powered commercial radio and a NOAA weather radio with an alert function. The NOAA weather radio can alert you to weather emergencies or announcements from the Department of Homeland Security. The commercial radio is a good source for news and information from local authorities.
Keep copies of important records such as site maps, building plans, insurance policies, employee contact and identification information, bank account records, supplier and shipping contact lists, computer backups, emergency or law enforcement contact information and other priority documents in a waterproof, fireproof portable container. Store a second set of records at an off-site location.
Talk to your co-workers about what emergency supplies the company can feasibly provide, if any, and which ones individuals should consider keeping on hand.
Recommended emergency supplies include the following:
Water, amounts for portable kits will vary. Individuals should determine what amount they are able to both store comfortably and to transport to other locations. If it is feasible, store one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
First Aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust or filter masks, readily available in hardware stores, which are rated based on how small a particle they filter
Moist towelettes for sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Plastic sheeting and duct tape to "seal the room"
Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
http://www.ready.gov/business/plan/emersupply.html
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Evacuation Alert in Effect for Wildfire near Sisters
From the Statesman Journal
A wildfire near Sisters is 20 percent contained after burning about 4,500 acres and keeping homeowners on alert for possible evacuation.
Firefighters said Wednesday that one outbuilding used for storage and a pump house was lost but that no other structures were damaged or threatened.
The fire is burning in the Deschutes National Forest and on private land about six miles south of Sisters.
About a half-dozen homes were under mandatory evacuation orders. Other residents were advised to be ready to leave as a precaution.
Families who were evacuated were being escorted to and from their homes by the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department
Read more: http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20100805/NEWS/8050327/1001#ixzz0vkLDObTn
A wildfire near Sisters is 20 percent contained after burning about 4,500 acres and keeping homeowners on alert for possible evacuation.
Firefighters said Wednesday that one outbuilding used for storage and a pump house was lost but that no other structures were damaged or threatened.
The fire is burning in the Deschutes National Forest and on private land about six miles south of Sisters.
About a half-dozen homes were under mandatory evacuation orders. Other residents were advised to be ready to leave as a precaution.
Families who were evacuated were being escorted to and from their homes by the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department
Read more: http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20100805/NEWS/8050327/1001#ixzz0vkLDObTn
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Little Northern Lights Activity Seen In Oregon
http://www.kptv.com/weather/24503623/detail.html
POSTED: 4:39 pm PDT August 3, 2010
UPDATED: 12:19 pm PDT August 4, 2010
, Ore. -- There were no immediate photographs of the northern lights being seen Tuesday night from Oregon.
Typically, only regions closer to the Arctic can see the aurora of rippling reds and greens, but solar storms can pull them south.
Two minor solar storms that flared Sunday shot tons of plasma directly at Earth. As a result, scientists said people living in northern regions had a chance to see the unusual northern lights late Tuesday night.
OMSI planetarium manager Jim Todd said the best opportunity for viewing the northern lights was west of North Plains after about 9:30 p.m. But Todd said he did not see any activity between 9 p.m. and midnight, which is when clouds moved in from the west.
POSTED: 4:39 pm PDT August 3, 2010
UPDATED: 12:19 pm PDT August 4, 2010
, Ore. -- There were no immediate photographs of the northern lights being seen Tuesday night from Oregon.
Typically, only regions closer to the Arctic can see the aurora of rippling reds and greens, but solar storms can pull them south.
Two minor solar storms that flared Sunday shot tons of plasma directly at Earth. As a result, scientists said people living in northern regions had a chance to see the unusual northern lights late Tuesday night.
OMSI planetarium manager Jim Todd said the best opportunity for viewing the northern lights was west of North Plains after about 9:30 p.m. But Todd said he did not see any activity between 9 p.m. and midnight, which is when clouds moved in from the west.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Safety for Kids
It is extremely important to teach your children what to do in an emergency in case you are not there to help them -- make sure they know where your family meeting place is, who your out-of-town family contact is, and practice evacuation drills regularly at home. Have them help you put together your Family Disaster Supply Kit. And children can also learn basic life supporting first aid.
To have your children take an active interest emergency preparedness, mitigation, and safety, visit these websites:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) websites Ready Kids and FEMA for Kids include lots of information for kids to learn about disasters, how they can prepare for them, and how they can reduce their impact in a fun and interactive way.
The DHS United States Fire Administration also has a website for kids to learn about fire prevention and what everyone should do to be safer at home, USFA's Kids Page.
Sparky is the mascot of the National Fire Protection Association and this site focuses on fire prevention education for kids, with lots of games to reinforce the message.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has designed fun activities for kids to explore the planet they live on, including hazardous weather. These activities are linked from the NOAA education webpage and are tailored for children grades K-5 and for grades 6-12.
Code Red Rover is the Home Safety Council's website for children that introduces them to Rover, the Home Safety Hound, and delivers interactive games and puzzles to assist children in identifying dangers in and around the home.
The Interactive Zone at the American Red Cross website includes games, quizzes, and map to engage youngsters in emergency preparedness and disasters safety. There are also lots of ways for children and young adults to get involved in Youth Services with the American Red Cross.
Check out this web page http://www.citizencorps.gov/ready/kids.shtm
Also, one good way to get a kit is online - many websites - here's one www.quakedog.com/emergencykits72
To have your children take an active interest emergency preparedness, mitigation, and safety, visit these websites:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) websites Ready Kids and FEMA for Kids include lots of information for kids to learn about disasters, how they can prepare for them, and how they can reduce their impact in a fun and interactive way.
The DHS United States Fire Administration also has a website for kids to learn about fire prevention and what everyone should do to be safer at home, USFA's Kids Page.
Sparky is the mascot of the National Fire Protection Association and this site focuses on fire prevention education for kids, with lots of games to reinforce the message.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has designed fun activities for kids to explore the planet they live on, including hazardous weather. These activities are linked from the NOAA education webpage and are tailored for children grades K-5 and for grades 6-12.
Code Red Rover is the Home Safety Council's website for children that introduces them to Rover, the Home Safety Hound, and delivers interactive games and puzzles to assist children in identifying dangers in and around the home.
The Interactive Zone at the American Red Cross website includes games, quizzes, and map to engage youngsters in emergency preparedness and disasters safety. There are also lots of ways for children and young adults to get involved in Youth Services with the American Red Cross.
Check out this web page http://www.citizencorps.gov/ready/kids.shtm
Also, one good way to get a kit is online - many websites - here's one www.quakedog.com/emergencykits72
Monday, August 2, 2010
The fire was easier to suppress thanks to fuels reduction.
The short article below is about one of the mitigation projects overseen by Oregon Emergency Management which involved fuels reduction work done in conjunction with the Forest Service along the road side (HWY 20). Because of this work prior to fire season,the fire was easily suppressed and kept to about ½ acre…
-by Don Shurtleff
Instead of being a tragedy, a brush fire northwest of Sisters this weekend turned out to be an example of what works. 911 dispatchers starting getting calls about smoke along Highway 20, near Tollgate, just after 2 on Saturday afternoon. The Black Butte Fire Tower confirmed the smoke and said the fire was spreading rapidly. Lisa Clark with the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch (COID) says the fire was started by lightning that smoldered for several days before flaring up. It was in an area where fires can easily get out of control. Clark says the fuel reduction project really did its job by keeping the flames low to the ground and away from tree limbs.
-by Don Shurtleff
Instead of being a tragedy, a brush fire northwest of Sisters this weekend turned out to be an example of what works. 911 dispatchers starting getting calls about smoke along Highway 20, near Tollgate, just after 2 on Saturday afternoon. The Black Butte Fire Tower confirmed the smoke and said the fire was spreading rapidly. Lisa Clark with the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch (COID) says the fire was started by lightning that smoldered for several days before flaring up. It was in an area where fires can easily get out of control. Clark says the fuel reduction project really did its job by keeping the flames low to the ground and away from tree limbs.
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