News Release from: Sandy Fire District
Posted: September 15th, 2011 10:46 AM
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for American children. A child's risk of injury greatly increases in a crash if they are not appropriately restrained. In an attempt to address these facts, Sandy Fire District's Car Seat Safety Technician, Nannette Wilson will be BUSY.
The celebration of Car Seat Safety Week will begin with FREE car seat safety checks at Sandy Fire Main Station (17460 Bruns Ave, Sandy, OR 97055) Monday - Friday, September 19th - September 23rd from 8:30 to 4:30 No appointments are necessary!!
Nannette is also available By Appointment - to do car seat safety checks and installations on Saturday, September 24th from noon until 6:00 pm
Why such a high error rate on installations?
There are so many Makes and Models of cars on the road today, add to that the number of brands and styles of Car Seats, it is no wonder why so many are installed incorrectly. "Safety Seat Technicians go through an intensive 40 hour training course and are then required to maintain their skill level and update their knowledge about new trends and devices on a regular basis. It is no small feat to become a Safety Seat Technician - we are fortunate to have Nannette Wilson in our Fire District" said Alice Busch, Sandy Fire District.
Oregon has over 400 certified child passenger safety technicians who conduct more than 2,500 child seat inspections annually; they consistently find that 82% are used incorrectly.
"Sometimes parents feel bad when they realize their car seat was not properly installed. I tell them I have two kids and I really doubt I would have correctly installed their seats if I had not taken the training to become a Technician". Nannette Wilson, Sandy Fire District Car Seat Technician. "I'd say that most parents that come to get their car seat checked, think they have installed it correctly and are just bringing it to a technician to make sure. They are trying to do the right things to protect their children, and this is one of the most important ones because if the car seat isn't installed correctly, it may not protect their most precious cargo. It only costs a bit of time, I think everyone should invest that much to ensure their safety seat will do its job".
Using the right type of child restraint for a child's size can reduce the chance of crash injury an estimated 71% for infants, 54% for toddlers, and 59% for children in boosters.
"Car seats can cost well over $100 and are specially designed to protect the physiology of young children. With a price tag like that, and the potentially deadly result of improper installation, I would think a FREE clinic to ensure the car seat is able to do its job would be something all parents, grandparents and any child care provider would be excited to take advantage of" Alice Busch, Sandy Fire District.
If you know of anyone with a small child, please encourage them to come to visit the Sandy Fire Main Station or to contact Nannette Wilson at 503-668-8093 or via email at n.wilson@sandyfire.org
A few recent facts that underscore the importance of properly installed Child Safety Seats.
* Improperly restrained children are 3.5 times more likely to be seriously injured in a crash than their properly restrained counterparts.
* For children injured in crashes, head, neck and spinal injuries are most common, often resulting in lifelong disabilities.
* During 2007 in Oregon, 838 child passengers under age eight were injured in motor vehicle crashes and 2 children were killed
* Over 42 percent of the children involved in these crashes were NOT using child restraints. This means the driver either placed the child prematurely into adult lap and shoulder belt (231 children) or left the child totally unrestrained (16 children) - in violation of Oregon law
* Once a child has outgrown their car seat, a booster seat should be used until safety belts fit correctly, usually when the child reaches 4'9" in height or 8 years of age.
Best Practice Suggestions
Refer to the child safety seat manufacture's manual and the car seat information in your vehicle owner's manual to get information specific to your situation.
Rear Facing:
* Never place a rear facing child in front of an active frontal air bag.
* Keep infants in the back seat, in rear-facing child safety seats, as long as
possible up to the height or weight limit of the particular seat.
* Ensure the seat is secure in the vehicle & moves less than 1 inch side to side.
* Harness Straps are snug and retainer clip is level with the child's armpits.
Forward Facing:
* Ride in forward-facing child safety seats, in the back seat, until they reach the
* upper weight/height limit of the particular seat (usually age 4 and 40 pounds).
* Use the top tether when possible.
* Ensure the seat is secure in the vehicle & moves less than 1 inch side to side.
* Harness Straps are snug and retainer clip is level with the child's armpits.
Booster:
Booster seats protect children over 40 pounds.
* Ride in booster seats using the lap and shoulder safety belt, in the back seat.
* Position shoulder belt across the chest
* Seat belts fit properly when the lap belt lays across the upper thighs
* and the shoulder belt fits across the chest (usually age 8 or when 4'9" tall).
Safety Belt:
* When children outgrow their booster seats, (usually at age 8 or when they are
* 4'9" tall) they can use the adult seat belt in the back seat, if it fits properly.
* For information on Oregon Law visit www.childsafetyseat.org/CPSLaws.html
Children 12 years old and younger should ride in the back seat.
How Can You Help?
* Encourage caregivers to attend a car seat checkup event to make sure their children are riding safely. Call ACTS Oregon Child Safety Seat Resource Center 503-643-5620, 1-877-793-2608 or visit www.childsafetyseat.org
* Consider becoming a child safety seat program volunteer or a trained child passenger safety technician. In addition to "certified" child passenger safety technicians, volunteers are always needed to assist with hosting or helping at community check-up events. Call Nannette for more information or visit www.actsoregon.org
* Distribute FREE educational materials to friends, coworkers, family members and organizations who serve families within your community. Order FREE color posters, and brochures at www.childsafetyseat.org/store.html
* Add a link on your website to ACTS Oregon Child Safety Seat Resource Center www.childsafetyseat.org/calendar.html
* Download educational videos to share with others: Keeping Kids Safe During Crashes at www.research.chop.edu/programs/carseat/ and Boost ‘em in the Back Seat at www.boosterseats4safety.org/ Another fantastic video that encourages seat belt use can be found at http://www.embracethis.co.uk/
There is a tremendous need for greater public education and awareness of these issues throughout Oregon. Please support our efforts to protect Oregon's smallest travelers.
Showing posts with label oregon emeregency management. Show all posts
Showing posts with label oregon emeregency management. Show all posts
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Friday, September 2, 2011
SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
-A Time to Remember. A Time to prepare-
SEATTLE – September is National Preparedness Month, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has joined with more than 6,000 federal, tribal, state and local coalition members from across the country to encourage Americans to prepare their homes, businesses, schools and communities for disasters of all kinds. According to FEMA Regional Administrator Ken Murphy, this year marks the eighth annual observance of National Preparedness Month, and the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is: A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare,” said Murphy. “We focus on taking simple, but potentially life-saving steps to enhance preparedness, including: Get an Emergency Supply Kit; Make a Family Emergency Plan; Be Informed about the different types of emergencies; and Get Involved in your community’s preparedness efforts.”
“Preparing for disasters means that we must plan for the Whole Community, including people of different ages and those with various access and functional needs,” continued Murphy. “It means planning for children – and not just thinking of them as small adults. It means planning for the elderly, and planning for families without access to personal transportation. Whole Community preparedness means more than just planning for what’s easy – we have to plan for what’s real.”
National Preparedness Month is sponsored by the Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and the Advertising Council. For more information on National Preparedness Month activities, and how to become a coalition member, visit www.Ready.gov, www.fema.gov, or www.CitizenCorps.gov.
Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. Social media links are provided for reference only. FEMA does not endorse non-government websites, companies or applications.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
SEATTLE – September is National Preparedness Month, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has joined with more than 6,000 federal, tribal, state and local coalition members from across the country to encourage Americans to prepare their homes, businesses, schools and communities for disasters of all kinds. According to FEMA Regional Administrator Ken Murphy, this year marks the eighth annual observance of National Preparedness Month, and the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is: A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare,” said Murphy. “We focus on taking simple, but potentially life-saving steps to enhance preparedness, including: Get an Emergency Supply Kit; Make a Family Emergency Plan; Be Informed about the different types of emergencies; and Get Involved in your community’s preparedness efforts.”
“Preparing for disasters means that we must plan for the Whole Community, including people of different ages and those with various access and functional needs,” continued Murphy. “It means planning for children – and not just thinking of them as small adults. It means planning for the elderly, and planning for families without access to personal transportation. Whole Community preparedness means more than just planning for what’s easy – we have to plan for what’s real.”
National Preparedness Month is sponsored by the Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and the Advertising Council. For more information on National Preparedness Month activities, and how to become a coalition member, visit www.Ready.gov, www.fema.gov, or www.CitizenCorps.gov.
Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. Social media links are provided for reference only. FEMA does not endorse non-government websites, companies or applications.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Triangle of Life - Mis-information - please read.
Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries response.
Based on what I know, Doug Copp, the author of the “Triangle of Life” idea, is a misguided individual. His advice utilizing the “Triangle of Life” as a shelter strategy during an earthquake is incorrect, dangerous and potentially deadly, and is not accepted by the Red Cross, FEMA or any emergency response organization in the United States. “Drop, cover and hold” has proven to save lives and should be part of everyone’s emergency preparations for an earthquake.
James Roddey, Earth Sciences Information Officer, Here is the American Red Cross response:
Red Cross Response:
Rocky Lopes, PhD
Manager, Community Disaster Education
American Red Cross National Headquarters
Recently it has been brought to my attention that an email from Doug Copp, titled "Triangle of Life," is making its rounds again on the Internet. "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" is CORRECT, accurate, and APPROPRIATE for use in the United States for Earthquake safety. Mr. Copp's assertions in his message that everyone is always crushed if they get under something is incorrect.
________________________________________
Recently, the American Red Cross became aware of a challenge to the earthquake safety advice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." This is according to information from Mr. Doug Copp, the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of American Rescue Team International (a supposed private company not affiliated with the U.S. Government or other agency.) He says that going underneath objects during an earthquake [as in children being told to get under their desks at school] is very dangerous, and fatal should the building collapse in a strong earthquake.
He also states that "everyone who gets under a doorway when a building collapses is killed." He further states that "if you are in bed when an earthquake happens, to roll out of bed next to it," and he also says that "If an earthquake happens while you are watching television and you cannot easily escape by getting out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal position next to a sofa, or large chair."
These recommendations are highly inaccurate for application in the United States and inconsistent with information developed through earthquake research. Mr. Copp based his statements on observations of damage to buildings after an earthquake in Turkey. It is like "apples and oranges" to compare building construction standards, techniques, engineering principles, and construction materials between Turkey and the United States.
We at the American Red Cross have studied the research on the topic of earthquake safety for many years. We have benefited from extensive research done by the California Office of Emergency Services, California Seismic Safety Commission, professional and academic research organizations, and emergency management agencies, who have also studied the recommendation to "drop, cover, and hold on!" during the shaking of an earthquake. Personally, I have also benefited from those who preceded me in doing earthquake education in California since the Field Act was passed in 1933.
That the claims made by Mr. Copp of ARTI, Inc., does not seem to distinguish is that the recommendation to "drop, cover, and hold on!" is a U.S.-based recommendation based on U.S. Building Codes and construction standards. Much research in the United States has confirmed that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" has saved lives in the United States. Engineering researchers have demonstrated that very few buildings collapse or "pancake" in the U.S. as they might do in other countries. Using a web site to show one picture of one U.S. building that had a partial collapse after a major quake in an area with thousands of buildings that did not collapse during the same quake is inappropriate and misleading.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which collects data on injuries and deaths from all reportable causes in the U.S., as well as data from three University-based studies performed after the Loma Prieta (September, 1989) and Northridge (January, 1994) earthquakes in California, the following data are indicated: Loma Prieta: 63 deaths, approximately 3,700 people were injured. Most injuries happened as a result of the collapse of the Cypress Street section of I-880 in Oakland. Northridge: 57 deaths, 1,500 serious injuries. Most injuries were from falls caused by people trying to get out of their homes, or serious cuts and broken bones when people ran, barefooted, over broken glass (the earthquake happened in the early morning on a federal holiday when many people were still in bed.) There were millions of people in each of these earthquake-affected areas, and of those millions, many of them reported to have "dropped, covered, and held on" during the shaking of the earthquake.
We contend that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" indeed SAVED lives, not killed people. Because the research continues to demonstrate that, in the U.S., "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" works, the American Red Cross remains behind that recommendation. It is the simplest, reliable, and easiest method to teach people, including children.
The American Red Cross has not recommended use of a doorway for earthquake protection for more than a decade. The problem is that many doorways are not built into the structural integrity of a building, and may not offer protection. Also, simply put, doorways are not suitable for more than one person at a time.
The Red Cross, remaining consistent with the information published in "Talking About Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages," (visit http://www.disastereducation.org/guide.html ) states that if you are in bed when an earthquake happens, remain there. Rolling out of bed may lead to being injured by debris on the floor next to the bed. If you have done a good job of earthquake mitigation (that is, removing pictures or mirrors that could fall on a bed; anchoring tall bedroom furniture to wall studs, and the like), then you are safer to stay in bed rather than roll out of it during the shaking of an earthquake.
Also, the Red Cross strongly advises not try to move (that is, escape) during the shaking of an earthquake. The more and the longer distance that someone tries to move, the more likely they are to become injured by falling or flying debris, or by tripping, falling, or getting cut by damaged floors, walls, and items in the path of escape.
Identifying potential "void areas" and planning on using them for earthquake protection is more difficult to teach, and hard to remember for people who are not educated in earthquake engineering principles. The Red Cross is not saying that identifying potential voids is wrong or inappropriate. What we are saying is that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" is NOT wrong -- in the United States. The American Red Cross, being a U.S.-based organization, does not extend its recommendations to apply in other countries. What works here may not work elsewhere, so there is no dispute that the "void identification method" or the "Triangle of Life" may indeed be the best thing to teach in other countries where the risk of building collapse, even in moderate earthquakes, is great.
Based on what I know, Doug Copp, the author of the “Triangle of Life” idea, is a misguided individual. His advice utilizing the “Triangle of Life” as a shelter strategy during an earthquake is incorrect, dangerous and potentially deadly, and is not accepted by the Red Cross, FEMA or any emergency response organization in the United States. “Drop, cover and hold” has proven to save lives and should be part of everyone’s emergency preparations for an earthquake.
James Roddey, Earth Sciences Information Officer, Here is the American Red Cross response:
Red Cross Response:
Rocky Lopes, PhD
Manager, Community Disaster Education
American Red Cross National Headquarters
Recently it has been brought to my attention that an email from Doug Copp, titled "Triangle of Life," is making its rounds again on the Internet. "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" is CORRECT, accurate, and APPROPRIATE for use in the United States for Earthquake safety. Mr. Copp's assertions in his message that everyone is always crushed if they get under something is incorrect.
________________________________________
Recently, the American Red Cross became aware of a challenge to the earthquake safety advice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." This is according to information from Mr. Doug Copp, the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of American Rescue Team International (a supposed private company not affiliated with the U.S. Government or other agency.) He says that going underneath objects during an earthquake [as in children being told to get under their desks at school] is very dangerous, and fatal should the building collapse in a strong earthquake.
He also states that "everyone who gets under a doorway when a building collapses is killed." He further states that "if you are in bed when an earthquake happens, to roll out of bed next to it," and he also says that "If an earthquake happens while you are watching television and you cannot easily escape by getting out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal position next to a sofa, or large chair."
These recommendations are highly inaccurate for application in the United States and inconsistent with information developed through earthquake research. Mr. Copp based his statements on observations of damage to buildings after an earthquake in Turkey. It is like "apples and oranges" to compare building construction standards, techniques, engineering principles, and construction materials between Turkey and the United States.
We at the American Red Cross have studied the research on the topic of earthquake safety for many years. We have benefited from extensive research done by the California Office of Emergency Services, California Seismic Safety Commission, professional and academic research organizations, and emergency management agencies, who have also studied the recommendation to "drop, cover, and hold on!" during the shaking of an earthquake. Personally, I have also benefited from those who preceded me in doing earthquake education in California since the Field Act was passed in 1933.
That the claims made by Mr. Copp of ARTI, Inc., does not seem to distinguish is that the recommendation to "drop, cover, and hold on!" is a U.S.-based recommendation based on U.S. Building Codes and construction standards. Much research in the United States has confirmed that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" has saved lives in the United States. Engineering researchers have demonstrated that very few buildings collapse or "pancake" in the U.S. as they might do in other countries. Using a web site to show one picture of one U.S. building that had a partial collapse after a major quake in an area with thousands of buildings that did not collapse during the same quake is inappropriate and misleading.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which collects data on injuries and deaths from all reportable causes in the U.S., as well as data from three University-based studies performed after the Loma Prieta (September, 1989) and Northridge (January, 1994) earthquakes in California, the following data are indicated: Loma Prieta: 63 deaths, approximately 3,700 people were injured. Most injuries happened as a result of the collapse of the Cypress Street section of I-880 in Oakland. Northridge: 57 deaths, 1,500 serious injuries. Most injuries were from falls caused by people trying to get out of their homes, or serious cuts and broken bones when people ran, barefooted, over broken glass (the earthquake happened in the early morning on a federal holiday when many people were still in bed.) There were millions of people in each of these earthquake-affected areas, and of those millions, many of them reported to have "dropped, covered, and held on" during the shaking of the earthquake.
We contend that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" indeed SAVED lives, not killed people. Because the research continues to demonstrate that, in the U.S., "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" works, the American Red Cross remains behind that recommendation. It is the simplest, reliable, and easiest method to teach people, including children.
The American Red Cross has not recommended use of a doorway for earthquake protection for more than a decade. The problem is that many doorways are not built into the structural integrity of a building, and may not offer protection. Also, simply put, doorways are not suitable for more than one person at a time.
The Red Cross, remaining consistent with the information published in "Talking About Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages," (visit http://www.disastereducation.org/guide.html ) states that if you are in bed when an earthquake happens, remain there. Rolling out of bed may lead to being injured by debris on the floor next to the bed. If you have done a good job of earthquake mitigation (that is, removing pictures or mirrors that could fall on a bed; anchoring tall bedroom furniture to wall studs, and the like), then you are safer to stay in bed rather than roll out of it during the shaking of an earthquake.
Also, the Red Cross strongly advises not try to move (that is, escape) during the shaking of an earthquake. The more and the longer distance that someone tries to move, the more likely they are to become injured by falling or flying debris, or by tripping, falling, or getting cut by damaged floors, walls, and items in the path of escape.
Identifying potential "void areas" and planning on using them for earthquake protection is more difficult to teach, and hard to remember for people who are not educated in earthquake engineering principles. The Red Cross is not saying that identifying potential voids is wrong or inappropriate. What we are saying is that "Drop, Cover, and Hold On!" is NOT wrong -- in the United States. The American Red Cross, being a U.S.-based organization, does not extend its recommendations to apply in other countries. What works here may not work elsewhere, so there is no dispute that the "void identification method" or the "Triangle of Life" may indeed be the best thing to teach in other countries where the risk of building collapse, even in moderate earthquakes, is great.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness Workshops Offered
Oregon Emergency Management Geologic Hazards Coordinator Althea Rizzo and other agency experts will be holding free preparedness workshops concerning tsunamis and earthquakes in several Oregon communities in May.
Oregon has suffered considerable damage from the recent distant tsunami from Japan, from two moderate earthquake events in 1993 and a distant tsunami from Alaska in 1964. Scientific evidence indicates that Oregon is at risk for much larger and potentially more damaging tsunami created by an earthquake associated with the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan brings the hazard home and offers a teachable moment. Join us as we talk about how to be more prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis in Oregon!
2011 QuakePrep Road Show Schedule
Location Venue and address Time of event
Monday, May 09, 2011 Corvallis
Linus Pauling Auditorium,
1111 NW Cleveland Avenue;
Corvallis, OR 97330 7:00-9:00 PM
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 Monroe Monroe Fire Station,
680 Commercial Street,
Monroe, 97456 6:00-8:00 PM
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 Eugene University of Oregon
129 McKenzie Hall 6:00-8:00 PM
Saturday, May 14, 2011 Brookings
Kalmiopsis Elementary School,
Multi-Purpose Room (Cafeteria),
650 Easy Street 12:00-4:00 PM
Port Orford
Port Orford Council Chambers,
555 W. 20th St
Port Orford, OR 97465 6:00-8:00 PM
Sunday, May 15, 2011 Coos Bay
Community Health and Education Center (CHEC Building),
3950 Sherman Avenue,
Coos Bay/North Bend, OR 1:30-3:30 PM
Reedsport
Pacific Auditorium,
2260 Longwood Dr,
Reedsport, OR 6:00-8:00 PM
Monday, May 16, 2011 Toledo
285 NE Burgess road,
Toledo or. 97391 2:00-4:00 PM
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 Tillamook
Tillamook Library,
1716 3rd St.
Tillamook, OR 97141 6:30-8:30 PM
Wednesday, May 18,2011 Seaside
The Seaside Civic & Convention Center,
Necanicum Room ,
415 First Avenue,
Seaside, Oregon 97138 6:00-8:00 PM
Train the Trainer workshop:
Thursday, May 19, 2011 Astoria/Warrenton
Holiday Inn Express,
204 West Marine Drive 2:00-7:00 PM
Oregon has suffered considerable damage from the recent distant tsunami from Japan, from two moderate earthquake events in 1993 and a distant tsunami from Alaska in 1964. Scientific evidence indicates that Oregon is at risk for much larger and potentially more damaging tsunami created by an earthquake associated with the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan brings the hazard home and offers a teachable moment. Join us as we talk about how to be more prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis in Oregon!
2011 QuakePrep Road Show Schedule
Location Venue and address Time of event
Monday, May 09, 2011 Corvallis
Linus Pauling Auditorium,
1111 NW Cleveland Avenue;
Corvallis, OR 97330 7:00-9:00 PM
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 Monroe Monroe Fire Station,
680 Commercial Street,
Monroe, 97456 6:00-8:00 PM
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 Eugene University of Oregon
129 McKenzie Hall 6:00-8:00 PM
Saturday, May 14, 2011 Brookings
Kalmiopsis Elementary School,
Multi-Purpose Room (Cafeteria),
650 Easy Street 12:00-4:00 PM
Port Orford
Port Orford Council Chambers,
555 W. 20th St
Port Orford, OR 97465 6:00-8:00 PM
Sunday, May 15, 2011 Coos Bay
Community Health and Education Center (CHEC Building),
3950 Sherman Avenue,
Coos Bay/North Bend, OR 1:30-3:30 PM
Reedsport
Pacific Auditorium,
2260 Longwood Dr,
Reedsport, OR 6:00-8:00 PM
Monday, May 16, 2011 Toledo
285 NE Burgess road,
Toledo or. 97391 2:00-4:00 PM
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 Tillamook
Tillamook Library,
1716 3rd St.
Tillamook, OR 97141 6:30-8:30 PM
Wednesday, May 18,2011 Seaside
The Seaside Civic & Convention Center,
Necanicum Room ,
415 First Avenue,
Seaside, Oregon 97138 6:00-8:00 PM
Train the Trainer workshop:
Thursday, May 19, 2011 Astoria/Warrenton
Holiday Inn Express,
204 West Marine Drive 2:00-7:00 PM
Monday, March 28, 2011
Governor Kitzhaber Applauds Federal Approval for Curry County Disaster Assistance
(SALEM, Ore.) –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced it will fund repairs and replace damaged public infrastructure in Curry County just four days after Governor Kitzhaber sent a formal request for a Federal Disaster Declaration to President Obama. The Port of Brookings-Harbor was damaged by tsunami waves that hit the Oregon Coast on March 11. “I am grateful for the speed with which our Federal partners have made this assistance available,” Governor Kitzhaber said. “It will help us quickly rebuild the port and get Oregonians back to work.” State and federal disaster assessment teams estimated damages at $6.7 million to the Port of Brookings- Harbor. Curry County met the state’s criteria to request federal disaster assistance. FEMA will now begin working with Curry County and the state Office of Emergency Management on scopes of work, design and construction schedules and reimbursements. The Federal share of assistance is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost for emergency measures and permanent restoration. The remaining 25 percent is the responsibility of the applicant. With the Federal declaration, damage assessments will begin in Coos and Lincoln Counties, where ports were also damaged, to determine if they meet assistance thresholds. “We’ll continue to work with Curry County until they are back on their feet. We’re also looking toward the future to make sure we’re prepared for an emergency,” said Kitzhaber. Attached is a summary of the Federal Disaster Declaration. The Governor’s website has easy access to make donations to recovery efforts in Curry County and in Japan. For more information please visit: http://www.governor.oregon.gov/ For more information about FEMA’s Public Assistance Program: http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/pa/index.shtm For the formal request to President Obama: http://governor.oregon.gov/Gov/docs/032111presidentobama.pdf
Friday, March 18, 2011
Oregon Health Authority Radiation Information
The Oregon Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program and the Radiation Protection Services are closely monitoring information on the radiation release reported in Japan after explosions at a reactor site and subsequent events.
No Health Risk to Oregon According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, given the thousands of miles between Japan and the U.S., there is minimal risk at this time that Oregon and other states will experience any harmful levels of radioactivity.
Since the explosion, there have been no elevated radiation readings detected in Oregon and air sample results remain normal. Oregon Public Health receives hourly reports of atmospheric data and will continue to monitor the situation.
How safety is monitored – air detectors
The Environmental Protection Agency has a network of radiation detectors throughout the country that continuously monitor for the presence of radiation. There are two monitoring stations in Oregon – one in Portland and one in Corvallis. The network is called RadNet. The RADNET program is designed to provide immediate and long‐term information about radiation to protect the public and the environment.
How the monitoring works
The RadNet program monitors atmospheric data as it comes in. Oregon Public Health’s Radiation Protection Services program monitors the air and precipitation coming into Oregon.
The information is updated and recorded hourly. For more information about RADNET visit: http://www.epa.gov/narel/radnet/
For More Information: State Resources
Oregon Health Authority,
Information on Radiation Protection
HOTLINE: 1‐877‐290‐6767
Oregon Public Health Current Hazards:
http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx
Radiation Protection Service:
http://public.health.oregon.gov/PHD/OEPH/RPS
Oregon Poison Center:
1‐800‐222‐1222
Federal Resources
RadNet
www.epa.gov/narel/radnet/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
http://emergency.cdc.gov/radiation/
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Radiation Event Medical Management:
http://remm.nlm.gov/
No Health Risk to Oregon According to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, given the thousands of miles between Japan and the U.S., there is minimal risk at this time that Oregon and other states will experience any harmful levels of radioactivity.
Since the explosion, there have been no elevated radiation readings detected in Oregon and air sample results remain normal. Oregon Public Health receives hourly reports of atmospheric data and will continue to monitor the situation.
How safety is monitored – air detectors
The Environmental Protection Agency has a network of radiation detectors throughout the country that continuously monitor for the presence of radiation. There are two monitoring stations in Oregon – one in Portland and one in Corvallis. The network is called RadNet. The RADNET program is designed to provide immediate and long‐term information about radiation to protect the public and the environment.
How the monitoring works
The RadNet program monitors atmospheric data as it comes in. Oregon Public Health’s Radiation Protection Services program monitors the air and precipitation coming into Oregon.
The information is updated and recorded hourly. For more information about RADNET visit: http://www.epa.gov/narel/radnet/
For More Information: State Resources
Oregon Health Authority,
Information on Radiation Protection
HOTLINE: 1‐877‐290‐6767
Oregon Public Health Current Hazards:
http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx
Radiation Protection Service:
http://public.health.oregon.gov/PHD/OEPH/RPS
Oregon Poison Center:
1‐800‐222‐1222
Federal Resources
RadNet
www.epa.gov/narel/radnet/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
http://emergency.cdc.gov/radiation/
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Radiation Event Medical Management:
http://remm.nlm.gov/
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Health Dept. info line and website on Radiation
The Dept. of Health has set up an information line for people who have questions about the radiation and other issues from the Japan Nuclear accidents. The Number is 877-290-6767.
There is also a web page where you can find important current information on any monitoring of Oregon's exposure. The webpage is http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx
There is also a web page where you can find important current information on any monitoring of Oregon's exposure. The webpage is http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/CurrentHazards/Pages/index.aspx
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tsunami waves still dangerous
Please stay off the coast. I am watching TV and see people on the beach with children. The first Tsunami wave is not the largest and even if we get small waves - they could be traveling very fast and are dangerous.
Waves could be unusual for a few hours. Please - stay off the beach.
Waves could be unusual for a few hours. Please - stay off the beach.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Get Ready for Flood Safety Awareness Week - March 14-18, 2011
Flooding is a coast to coast threat to the United States and its territories in all months of the year. National Flood Safety Awareness Week, from March 14 to 18 this year, is intended to highlight some of the many ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods, and what you can do to save life and property.
You can prepare yourself and help prepare your communities by educating yourself on the risks of flooding and the ways you can prepare and respond to flooding. Here are some resources to get you started: The Ready Campaign has a page dedicated to flood safety awareness at www.ready.gov/floodawareness.
FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program has a variety of resources at www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/. Also, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a Flood Safety page at www.floodsafety.noaa.gov. The DHS Center for Faith Based & Neighborhood Partnerships will hold a National Flood Awareness Safety Week Stakeholder conference call, Tuesday, March 15 from 12-1PM EST that will provide additional information on what it means to get ready for flood season. There is a limit of 300 people on the call.
Call-in information is: 1-888-391-6569 Pin # 8622712.
Find out more about being a StormReady community at http://www.stormready.noaa.gov/.
You can prepare yourself and help prepare your communities by educating yourself on the risks of flooding and the ways you can prepare and respond to flooding. Here are some resources to get you started: The Ready Campaign has a page dedicated to flood safety awareness at www.ready.gov/floodawareness.
FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program has a variety of resources at www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/. Also, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a Flood Safety page at www.floodsafety.noaa.gov. The DHS Center for Faith Based & Neighborhood Partnerships will hold a National Flood Awareness Safety Week Stakeholder conference call, Tuesday, March 15 from 12-1PM EST that will provide additional information on what it means to get ready for flood season. There is a limit of 300 people on the call.
Call-in information is: 1-888-391-6569 Pin # 8622712.
Find out more about being a StormReady community at http://www.stormready.noaa.gov/.
Monday, February 28, 2011
March is American Red Cross Month
March is American Red Cross Month, a great opportunity for citizens, families and businesses to review disaster plans and build or restock emergency kits. According to FEMA Regional Administrator Ken Murphy, the American Red Cross not only provides help, hope and healing when disaster strikes, but also offers a wide selection of CPR/AED, first aid, disaster response and emergency preparedness training.
“The American Red Cross is FEMA’s major partner coordinating food and shelter during catastrophic disasters, but the key to any successful emergency response, regardless of the nature of the event, is personal preparedness,” said Murphy. “Red Cross classes and resources help people prepare with a few simple steps: build an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan, and stay informed of the hazards in your area. These resources can go a long way towards empowering our communities to make a real difference when the chips are down.”
American Red Cross Serving King and Kitsap Counties in Washington State CEO Randy Hutson certainly agrees. “We know that any steps you take today to prepare will help mitigate damage when disaster occurs,” said Hutson. “We encourage people to evaluate their own personal preparedness, and this month serves as a great reminder.”
Each year the American Red Cross Serving King and Kitsap Counties brings together 2,500 people to care for their neighbors, train 100,000 people in life-saving skills and respond to a disaster about once every other day. To find your local American Red Cross chapter, visit: http://www.redcross.org.
Resolve to be Ready in 2011 is led by FEMA’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and The Advertising Council. For more information on the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, visit Ready.gov and CitizenCorps.gov.
Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. Social media links are provided for reference only. FEMA does not endorse non-government websites, companies or applications.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
“The American Red Cross is FEMA’s major partner coordinating food and shelter during catastrophic disasters, but the key to any successful emergency response, regardless of the nature of the event, is personal preparedness,” said Murphy. “Red Cross classes and resources help people prepare with a few simple steps: build an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan, and stay informed of the hazards in your area. These resources can go a long way towards empowering our communities to make a real difference when the chips are down.”
American Red Cross Serving King and Kitsap Counties in Washington State CEO Randy Hutson certainly agrees. “We know that any steps you take today to prepare will help mitigate damage when disaster occurs,” said Hutson. “We encourage people to evaluate their own personal preparedness, and this month serves as a great reminder.”
Each year the American Red Cross Serving King and Kitsap Counties brings together 2,500 people to care for their neighbors, train 100,000 people in life-saving skills and respond to a disaster about once every other day. To find your local American Red Cross chapter, visit: http://www.redcross.org.
Resolve to be Ready in 2011 is led by FEMA’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and The Advertising Council. For more information on the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, visit Ready.gov and CitizenCorps.gov.
Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. Social media links are provided for reference only. FEMA does not endorse non-government websites, companies or applications.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Top 10 Ways That Moving to a New House Can Be a Disaster
From our ready Teri Jones: For more info: http://www.movingtips.org/blog/2011/top-10-ways-that-moving-to-a-new-house-can-be-a-disaster/
Who wouldn’t want to move into a new home? Take a minute to uncover the reality of new homeownership. Often, even when the mortgage is doable, there are many “extras” that you never had to deal with before, including house taxes, unforeseen costs from home repairs and higher electricity bills. While you no longer have a landlord asking for the late rent, owning your own home means that you are now your own landlord. Sometimes this doesn’t hit people until the kitchen faucet breaks for the third time, or it’s your responsibility to replace that overhead ceiling fan in the middle of summer. While there are many benefits of having a home to call your own (the space, designing it as you see fit, and not sharing a wall with three different neighbors!) there are many other factors to take into account before nose-diving into it.
Moving into a new home can be more expensive than you budgeted for. As opposed to an older home, new homes are placed on the market at escalating prices, so you’ll need to be prepared for that. If you’re not moving into your grandma’s home, chances are you will have competition of offers, and while you’re not the only one wanting to move into that new starter home in the suburbs, you will have to fight for it.
Broken down appliances and fixtures. Especially in new homes as opposed to older homes, you’ll want to keep the brand new appliances, condition of the walls and your door fixtures looking brand new or as much as possible for when you sell your home later on.
The chaos of confused movers and packers extends a 1-day task into several. Moving from your old place into your new place can cause a headache. Getting all of your ducks in a row for moving day is a lot of work but once the day comes and goes, you’ll be glad you were organized and thorough in your preparations. Moving companies also tend to charge by the hour, so being organized is a plus.
Going into deep debt. Moving to a new home involves a lot of unforeseen expenses. Some costs include food for the refrigerator, light bulbs, lawnmower, rugs, furniture, hardware, and more. Not to mention that cute lamp and that adorable bath mat and towel set that is just a little pricey. Little things add up!
Moving in your furniture only to move it again. Take a look at what your home needs before moving in! Does your new home need carpet or hardwood floors as opposed to what it already has? Does it need some color on the walls? Doing these preliminary changes before moving in can save you a lot of work later on.
Being disappointed once the deal is done. Be 100% sure this is the house of your dreams. With the many things you’ll have to deal with down the line, such as cost repairs of failing appliances and the amount of time alone you’ll spend here, it’s worth it to love your home in spite of all its minor inconveniences.
Leaving precious things behind or fragile things getting broken. Plan ahead and pack everything yourself! Although it can be a time intensive project, don’t hire or rely on friends, professionals or family to help you pack up your things. Otherwise, you may go crazy as you unpack and can’t find your dinner plates or family photos.
The moving company loses or breaks your furniture. Don’t hire the cheapest moving company. Spend money where it important to, like a reliable moving company that knows what they’re doing and won’t break your bed!
Someone gets lost in the caravan…unfortunately they have the only key. Make copies of keys. Prior to moving day, make sure you have plenty of key copies, but not too many. You want everyone in the family to have a copy, and make sure they work so you and your movers aren’t locked out on moving day.
Heat stroke, heart attack, or other injuries from using muscles you haven’t used in years. Take a breath. Pace yourself and get help when you need it. You’ve worked hard to get to moving day, and this is your moment to take a breather. Nobody deserves it more than a new homeowner!
While moving into a new home can be overwhelming at first, your new home will soon bring you all the joy, space and privacy you hoped for. Enjoy being your own landlord, painting the walls to your liking and most of all, relishing the fact that this home is yours for as long as you want it to be!
Posted in Moving News
Who wouldn’t want to move into a new home? Take a minute to uncover the reality of new homeownership. Often, even when the mortgage is doable, there are many “extras” that you never had to deal with before, including house taxes, unforeseen costs from home repairs and higher electricity bills. While you no longer have a landlord asking for the late rent, owning your own home means that you are now your own landlord. Sometimes this doesn’t hit people until the kitchen faucet breaks for the third time, or it’s your responsibility to replace that overhead ceiling fan in the middle of summer. While there are many benefits of having a home to call your own (the space, designing it as you see fit, and not sharing a wall with three different neighbors!) there are many other factors to take into account before nose-diving into it.
Moving into a new home can be more expensive than you budgeted for. As opposed to an older home, new homes are placed on the market at escalating prices, so you’ll need to be prepared for that. If you’re not moving into your grandma’s home, chances are you will have competition of offers, and while you’re not the only one wanting to move into that new starter home in the suburbs, you will have to fight for it.
Broken down appliances and fixtures. Especially in new homes as opposed to older homes, you’ll want to keep the brand new appliances, condition of the walls and your door fixtures looking brand new or as much as possible for when you sell your home later on.
The chaos of confused movers and packers extends a 1-day task into several. Moving from your old place into your new place can cause a headache. Getting all of your ducks in a row for moving day is a lot of work but once the day comes and goes, you’ll be glad you were organized and thorough in your preparations. Moving companies also tend to charge by the hour, so being organized is a plus.
Going into deep debt. Moving to a new home involves a lot of unforeseen expenses. Some costs include food for the refrigerator, light bulbs, lawnmower, rugs, furniture, hardware, and more. Not to mention that cute lamp and that adorable bath mat and towel set that is just a little pricey. Little things add up!
Moving in your furniture only to move it again. Take a look at what your home needs before moving in! Does your new home need carpet or hardwood floors as opposed to what it already has? Does it need some color on the walls? Doing these preliminary changes before moving in can save you a lot of work later on.
Being disappointed once the deal is done. Be 100% sure this is the house of your dreams. With the many things you’ll have to deal with down the line, such as cost repairs of failing appliances and the amount of time alone you’ll spend here, it’s worth it to love your home in spite of all its minor inconveniences.
Leaving precious things behind or fragile things getting broken. Plan ahead and pack everything yourself! Although it can be a time intensive project, don’t hire or rely on friends, professionals or family to help you pack up your things. Otherwise, you may go crazy as you unpack and can’t find your dinner plates or family photos.
The moving company loses or breaks your furniture. Don’t hire the cheapest moving company. Spend money where it important to, like a reliable moving company that knows what they’re doing and won’t break your bed!
Someone gets lost in the caravan…unfortunately they have the only key. Make copies of keys. Prior to moving day, make sure you have plenty of key copies, but not too many. You want everyone in the family to have a copy, and make sure they work so you and your movers aren’t locked out on moving day.
Heat stroke, heart attack, or other injuries from using muscles you haven’t used in years. Take a breath. Pace yourself and get help when you need it. You’ve worked hard to get to moving day, and this is your moment to take a breather. Nobody deserves it more than a new homeowner!
While moving into a new home can be overwhelming at first, your new home will soon bring you all the joy, space and privacy you hoped for. Enjoy being your own landlord, painting the walls to your liking and most of all, relishing the fact that this home is yours for as long as you want it to be!
Posted in Moving News
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Oregon Red Cross is operating a shelter in Welches
As you read this, the Oregon Red Cross is operating a shelter in Welches, providing a warm, safe place for 14 families to spend the night.
With flooding and landslides in the area, these families have been evacuated from their homes and their worlds have been turned upside-down. But, as always, the Red Cross is there in their time of need.
In the next few days, we'll be providing three square meals and lots of snacks. We'll help with clothes and clean-up supplies; health services and emotional support.
But our assistance goes beyond Welches. Earlier this week, we helped two families in Tillamook County when they were evacuated due to the threat of flooding. They each met with our disaster responders, who were able to provide lodging, food and clothes. The Oregon Red Cross was also hard at work in Newport, where a huge sinkhole threatened eight homes.
All this assistance is possible because of Red Cross supporters like you. Thank you.
To stay updated on all our efforts, be sure to visit our website.
Thank you,
Maree Wacker
Regional Executive, Oregon Red Cross
P.S. Monetary donations remain the best way to support relief efforts. To contribute, please click here.
With flooding and landslides in the area, these families have been evacuated from their homes and their worlds have been turned upside-down. But, as always, the Red Cross is there in their time of need.
In the next few days, we'll be providing three square meals and lots of snacks. We'll help with clothes and clean-up supplies; health services and emotional support.
But our assistance goes beyond Welches. Earlier this week, we helped two families in Tillamook County when they were evacuated due to the threat of flooding. They each met with our disaster responders, who were able to provide lodging, food and clothes. The Oregon Red Cross was also hard at work in Newport, where a huge sinkhole threatened eight homes.
All this assistance is possible because of Red Cross supporters like you. Thank you.
To stay updated on all our efforts, be sure to visit our website.
Thank you,
Maree Wacker
Regional Executive, Oregon Red Cross
P.S. Monetary donations remain the best way to support relief efforts. To contribute, please click here.
Friday, November 5, 2010
FEMA ENCOURAGES AMERICANS TO BE PREPARED AS THEY TURN THEIR CLOCKS BACK
Daylight Saving Time is a Good Opportunity to Make Sure Your Families Are Prepared for Emergencies
WASHINGTON-With Daylight Saving Time coming to an end, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging Americans to take advantage of the November 7 time change as a reminder to make sure their families are prepared for a possible emergency. A few simple steps like checking smoke alarms, developing a family communications plan, and putting an emergency kit together can go a long way toward keeping families safe.
"As we all get ready to turn our clocks back this Sunday, it's important for families to use this opportunity to get ready for possible emergencies," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "As a nation, we can only be as prepared as our public - the most important member of our emergency management team. I encourage everyone, as we fall back an hour, to also take a few simple steps to prepare their homes and loved ones for emergencies, including checking their smoke alarms and putting together an emergency kit."
Information on preparing for emergencies can be found at www.Ready.gov. Steps include developing a communications plan to ensure family members know how to get in touch with each other during an emergency, putting together an emergency kit, and staying informed of potential risks. It's important to remember that an emergency could be a large-scale catastrophic disaster, or a smaller-scale event like a car accident or house fire.
In addition to visiting Ready.gov, the United States Fire Administration is encouraging families to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire so it's important to test alarms regularly and keep them properly maintained. This includes checking the manufacture/expiration date on the label, replacing the batteries, and cleaning dust away from the slots so that smoke can enter freely.
For more information about home smoke alarms and fire sprinklers, please visit: www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms.
These news stories and other Individual & Community Preparedness news can be found on our website at www.citizencorps.gov.
WASHINGTON-With Daylight Saving Time coming to an end, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging Americans to take advantage of the November 7 time change as a reminder to make sure their families are prepared for a possible emergency. A few simple steps like checking smoke alarms, developing a family communications plan, and putting an emergency kit together can go a long way toward keeping families safe.
"As we all get ready to turn our clocks back this Sunday, it's important for families to use this opportunity to get ready for possible emergencies," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "As a nation, we can only be as prepared as our public - the most important member of our emergency management team. I encourage everyone, as we fall back an hour, to also take a few simple steps to prepare their homes and loved ones for emergencies, including checking their smoke alarms and putting together an emergency kit."
Information on preparing for emergencies can be found at www.Ready.gov. Steps include developing a communications plan to ensure family members know how to get in touch with each other during an emergency, putting together an emergency kit, and staying informed of potential risks. It's important to remember that an emergency could be a large-scale catastrophic disaster, or a smaller-scale event like a car accident or house fire.
In addition to visiting Ready.gov, the United States Fire Administration is encouraging families to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire so it's important to test alarms regularly and keep them properly maintained. This includes checking the manufacture/expiration date on the label, replacing the batteries, and cleaning dust away from the slots so that smoke can enter freely.
For more information about home smoke alarms and fire sprinklers, please visit: www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms.
These news stories and other Individual & Community Preparedness news can be found on our website at www.citizencorps.gov.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Emergency communications drill set for Saturday
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) will be conducting their semi-annual emergency communications drill at the Marion County Public Works at 8 a.m. Nov. 6.
ARES is a national organization of ham radio operators who provide communications assistance to state and county emergency officials when the standard means of communication have been disrupted.
The November drill will involve all Oregon counties communicating with the Oregon Office of Emergency Management and with each other. The emphasis of this drill will be using the new email over the air technology.
Read more: http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20101101/UPDATE/101101041/-1/update#ixzz148geR9AB
ARES is a national organization of ham radio operators who provide communications assistance to state and county emergency officials when the standard means of communication have been disrupted.
The November drill will involve all Oregon counties communicating with the Oregon Office of Emergency Management and with each other. The emphasis of this drill will be using the new email over the air technology.
Read more: http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20101101/UPDATE/101101041/-1/update#ixzz148geR9AB
Thursday, October 21, 2010
5 counties join pet evacuation disaster drill
Yuxing Zheng, The Oregonian
CANBY -- Animal noises pierced the chilly morning air inside the livestock barn of the Clackamas County Fairgrounds on Wednesday.
But instead of the usual oinks and moos, shrill howls from 20 or so dogs filled the cavernous room. The 25 or so "cats" sat silent, seeing as how they were actually plush toys.
The assembly of pets live and fake allowed animal service officials from Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington and Clark counties to stage a mock evacuation and sheltering exercise for pets. The training exercise helped emergency preparedness officials test their procedures for the mass sheltering of pets after a major disaster.
"With Hurricane Katrina and various other disasters, we have seen that people love their pets and they're part of the family," said Diana Hallmark, manager of Clackamas County Dog Services, which coordinated the exercise. "Emergency pet sheltering is that extra piece that allows people the peace of mind to be able to evacuate in a safe manner when they're first asked."
Wednesday's exercise simulated a post-earthquake evacuation of residents and their pets. Red Cross volunteers ran a human evacuation shelter in the fairgrounds' pavilion hall a short distance away.
First, community volunteers brought their dogs as well as stuffed toy bunnies, turtles and other toy cats to the pet shelter. Organizers feared real cats might have proved too "temperamental" for training purposes, said Tim Heider, a Clackamas County spokesman.
Officials then took pictures of each pet with its owner, with one photo going on top of each kennel. The owners and pets were each tagged with matching wristbands or collars with ID numbers: red tags for female pets and blue ones for males. The pets were then led to one of the individual kennels spaced in a grid pattern throughout the room.
Pets designated as having wounds or injuries were directed to a triage center. The most seriously "injured" pets, such as a stuffed horse, were sent to Multnomah County's mobile vet unit behind the building.
The training follows completion of a regional planning effort for the mass evacuation and sheltering of pets in the event of a large-scale disaster. Congress and Oregon passed laws calling for such plans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
The practice session and the proximity of the pet and human shelters helped Clackamas resident John Gill feel more confident about potentially leaving his home in an emergency.
Under normal evacuation circumstances, "I'm not convinced I would give up my dog to a shelter," said Gill, whose 3-year-old poodle, Henry, participated in the exercise. "But I feel confident in this situation, where I can see him and I can talk to him."
At the end of the exercise, organizers noted several areas needing improvement, such as spreading out the reunification of owners and pets, putting more distance between the cats and barking dogs, and bringing in propane heaters.
The exercise also helped pet owners note their own weak spots.
Tualatin resident Noralyn Danielle said she learned she needed to complete emergency preparation work for her two Siamese cats, which had remained at home during the exercise.
"I didn't have their vaccination numbers. I couldn't remember the vet's name," Danielle said. "It's a wake-up call for us, especially if they need medication. It's all those things I would've never thought of."
Organizers of the exercise emphasized that owners should keep a three-day supply of food, water and medicine for their pets in case of a disaster.
Sandy resident Sarah Richardson said the exercise taught her to talk with relatives to ensure they could retrieve her three dogs from a shelter should anything happen to her during an evacuation.
"If I've lost everything in a disaster, if you reunite with your family and on top of that your pet -- that would be the ultimate comfort," Richardson said.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Mitigation can save lives, property, money and lots of hassle!
Mitigation is one of those words people throw around expecting everyone to understand what it means. Though the word may not be common, it is very important. Here’s the definition.
“Mitigation” is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards and their effects. This means taking steps to reduce damage from future hazards, like flooding.
Oregonians who need to make repairs or rebuild as a result of the December and January storms have a responsibility to themselves, their families and their neighbors to rebuild in a way that reduces future flood losses. It’s safer, cheaper, and much easier to limit future destruction than to repair it afterward and the rebuilding phase of a disaster is the ideal time to consider ways to limit future damage.
Mitigation steps that can be taken to protect homeowners from suffering repetitive loss include rebuilding with materials less likely to be damaged by water and raising utility connections and electrical outlets. Owners should avoid building in a flood plain unless they elevate and reinforce the structure and/or seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage through cracks.
Not only does mitigation save lives and property, it also may qualify you for lower-cost flood insurance. Contact your insurance agents for premium rates, and check with your local planning department or online to find ways to mitigate.
More information about mitigation strategies to reduce flood risk can be found at www.fema.gov.
“Mitigation” is any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards and their effects. This means taking steps to reduce damage from future hazards, like flooding.
Oregonians who need to make repairs or rebuild as a result of the December and January storms have a responsibility to themselves, their families and their neighbors to rebuild in a way that reduces future flood losses. It’s safer, cheaper, and much easier to limit future destruction than to repair it afterward and the rebuilding phase of a disaster is the ideal time to consider ways to limit future damage.
Mitigation steps that can be taken to protect homeowners from suffering repetitive loss include rebuilding with materials less likely to be damaged by water and raising utility connections and electrical outlets. Owners should avoid building in a flood plain unless they elevate and reinforce the structure and/or seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage through cracks.
Not only does mitigation save lives and property, it also may qualify you for lower-cost flood insurance. Contact your insurance agents for premium rates, and check with your local planning department or online to find ways to mitigate.
More information about mitigation strategies to reduce flood risk can be found at www.fema.gov.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Epidemic - the other disaster
Has anyone in your company been sick this year? Have employees had to stay home with sick children? Have employees come to work sick and spread germs to others just because you didn’t have any other way to stay in business?
When we think of disasters, we usually think of flooding or winter storms. The recent flu scare was a bit of a wake up call to some. Sick employees can be a disaster that will cause businesses to suffer, and in this economy most can’t afford to be closed even one day.
Previously we have discussed what small businesses can do to stay in business immediately following a big storm stressing the importance of having a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). If your business does not have a COOP you may find yourself floundering when your employees call in sick.
To make sure your business continues running smoothing with fewer employees, include a section of information in your COOP that addresses this issue. When you write your epidemic COOP, a few questions that need to be answered are:
• Who will be in charge and who will take over if that person is not available?
• Who can work from home?
• Which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating?
• Do you have an emergency fund to get through tough times?
• How can you provide good customer service and meet deadlines with fewer employees?
More information about COOP plans is available on the Internet and Oregon Emergency Management would also be happy to assist. Planning ahead can save you money.
When we think of disasters, we usually think of flooding or winter storms. The recent flu scare was a bit of a wake up call to some. Sick employees can be a disaster that will cause businesses to suffer, and in this economy most can’t afford to be closed even one day.
Previously we have discussed what small businesses can do to stay in business immediately following a big storm stressing the importance of having a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). If your business does not have a COOP you may find yourself floundering when your employees call in sick.
To make sure your business continues running smoothing with fewer employees, include a section of information in your COOP that addresses this issue. When you write your epidemic COOP, a few questions that need to be answered are:
• Who will be in charge and who will take over if that person is not available?
• Who can work from home?
• Which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating?
• Do you have an emergency fund to get through tough times?
• How can you provide good customer service and meet deadlines with fewer employees?
More information about COOP plans is available on the Internet and Oregon Emergency Management would also be happy to assist. Planning ahead can save you money.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Don’t forget your pets
Surviving an emergency such as a fire, flood, earthquake or terrorist attack depends on what you plan for your family today. Hopefully you have a family plan and a 72 hour emergency kit. Now, how about Fido?
Believe it or not, more people in the United States have pets, than have children. Many people consider their pets to be part of the family and wouldn’t dream of leaving them behind. I confess I fall into that category.
Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you need to make plans in advance for your pets. Assembling an animal emergency supply kit is one of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected. Include your veterinarian in your planning as they may have good ideas and suggestions specific to your pet.
Your pet kit should contain basically the same items as your family kit. They will need enough food and water for three days, medicines and medical records (in a waterproof plastic bag) and a first aid kit. Injured animals may need antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, and isopropyl alcohol. A pet first aid reference book would be handy too.
Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Your kit should include a backup leash and ID tag. You might also consider talking with your veterinarian about permanent identification such as micro-chipping.
Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, puppy pads, paper towels, plastic trash bags and chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs. Nine parts water to one part bleach is a good disinfectant or you can use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water to purify it for drinking.
Don’t forget favorite toys, treats or bedding in you pet kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress, theirs and yours.
If you become separated from your pets, a photo of you together will help document ownership and help others to identify your pet when found.
Develop a pet care buddy system. Know who will evacuate the pet and where the pet will stay. Some shelters are now accepting pets with their owners or you can find pet friendly hotels outside your immediate area. There are boarding kennels and some veterinary hospitals will take pets during an emergency. Contact these places ahead of time.
Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Designate specific locations, one in your immediate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet in an emergency. You will need a crate or other pet carrier if it is practical for you to take your animals with you. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.
As in all planning, be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort t to follow instructions from authorities on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Take time now to get yourself and your pet ready.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Community Preparedness: The Facts
When I ask people if they are prepared for an emergency, I hear something like “we’ve got extra food in the cupboards and there’s a flashlight somewhere. We could get it all together if we needed to.” Nothing is said about a family plan or other emergency preparations.
I’m glad these people have supplies but what they don’t seem to understand is that there may not be time to “get it all together”. Recent research conducted by FEMA on preparedness showed forty percent of survey respondents did not have household plans, 80 percent had not conducted home evacuation drills, and nearly 60 percent did not know their community’s evacuation routes.
Nearly 20 percent reported having a disability that would affect their capacity to respond to an emergency situation, but shockingly only one out of four of them had made arrangements specific to their disability to help them respond safely in the event of an emergency. Go to this website for details - http://www.serve.gov/toolkits/disaster/
In Oregon, I have found that approximately 1 out of 10 people I talk to have an emergency kit put together and stored where family members can get to it. And we haven’t even covered the necessity of preparing for our pets.
Our nation’s emergency responders do an incredible job of keeping us safe, but they can’t do it alone. For example, Marion County has 826 firefighters. 252 are paid and 574 are volunteers. That’s 826 firefighters for 314,606 people. It is our responsibility to be prepared and to prepare our families – in doing so; we contribute to the safety and security of the state and the nation as well.
I’m glad these people have supplies but what they don’t seem to understand is that there may not be time to “get it all together”. Recent research conducted by FEMA on preparedness showed forty percent of survey respondents did not have household plans, 80 percent had not conducted home evacuation drills, and nearly 60 percent did not know their community’s evacuation routes.
Nearly 20 percent reported having a disability that would affect their capacity to respond to an emergency situation, but shockingly only one out of four of them had made arrangements specific to their disability to help them respond safely in the event of an emergency. Go to this website for details - http://www.serve.gov/toolkits/disaster/
In Oregon, I have found that approximately 1 out of 10 people I talk to have an emergency kit put together and stored where family members can get to it. And we haven’t even covered the necessity of preparing for our pets.
Our nation’s emergency responders do an incredible job of keeping us safe, but they can’t do it alone. For example, Marion County has 826 firefighters. 252 are paid and 574 are volunteers. That’s 826 firefighters for 314,606 people. It is our responsibility to be prepared and to prepare our families – in doing so; we contribute to the safety and security of the state and the nation as well.
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