Oregon Emergency Management - Preparedness and Disaster Blog

1-800 Safenet is the backup number to 211

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:34:00 +0000

We are encouraging everyone who finds possible tsunami debris on our coasts to use a one stop shop number 211 to report their findings. In some areas of the coast, the 211 number is having some difficulties. The backup number, which is easy to remember, is 1-800 safenet. Please use this if 211 does not go through.

This is extremely important! Please tell everyone you know. 211 or 1-800 safenet!!!!! Help us keep our beaches clean and safe.

Thank you.

Emergency Ham operators Field Day Operation was a SUCCESS!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:02:00 +0000

Posted on June 24, 2012 by AF7S
Leave a comment

Seven members of our unit participated in Field Day from the OEM ECC this year, all contributing to a final QSO total of 277 CW contacts and 135 SSB contacts.

Most importantly, all became more familiar with HF equipment and capabilities. That was the number one goal. There was even one member who had never been on HF before who was able to spend some time operating.

Our total score, including bonus points was 2128, which would place us at about 25th in the country last year in the 2F category.

We also managed to work nearly every section in the US and most Canadian sections. We missed Rhode Island, Maine, South New Jersey, Delaware and West Virginia, along with Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands – not bad for our small operations, low power and low antennas:

We discovered (or rather confirmed) that we really need some band pass filters on the gear so the 40 cw station doesn’t interfere with the 15 cw station, or the 80 and 40 SSB operations don’t interfere with each other. This will not only be important in something like Field Day, but really important if we ever have to be running emergency operations on two adjacent bands.
Thanks to those who participated this year. Next year, we encourage everyone to participate. It’s great training and experience, and even if you’ve never operated HF before, or never operated in a contest, don’t be hesitant. The skills you’ll build will help us in an actual emergency.

Message from US Fish and Wildlife service

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 22:23:00 +0000

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would also like to remind the public that all of the rocks, reefs and island along the Oregon coast are included within the National Wildlife Refuge System and they are closed to public access to protect seabirds and pinnipeds (seals & sea lions). The public should never go ashore or climb on these and we request the boats voluntarily remain 500' away from the rocks and aircraft maintain a 2000' clearance over them or a 1/2 mile lateral distance. More information on the National Wildlife Refuges on the Oregon coast can be found at http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/ or by contacting this office.

Marine Organisms Buried

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 22:15:00 +0000

The marine organisms removed from the Agate Beach derelict dock were buried landward from the site. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife staff and volunteers removed about a ton and a half of plant and animal material. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department staff and a contractor excavated a hole approximately eight feet deep far above the furthest reach of high tides and storm surges. They emptied the bags into it and filled in the hole. Since the organisms require salt water to survive, this disposal method is safe and reliable.

No further action is expected at the site until a decision is made about disposing of the dock, a decision which should be made in the next couple of days. Two basic options are under review: towing it off the beach to a nearby port or harbor, or demolishing it on site and disposing of it in a landfill. No further information is available about the feasibility or potential costs of either method; we're still weighing the options.

Japanese Dock at Agate Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 21:58:00 +0000

Agate Beach is open. Please stay off the dock.

June 7, 2012, Update 6: 1:15 p.m.

A team of about a dozen staff and volunteers organized by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife made quick work of removing marine organisms from the dock on the sand at Agate Beach. Workers with shovels, rakes and other tools first scraped the structure clean, then briefly used low-pressure torches to sterilize the dock.

The material was bagged and hauled up the beach well above the high tide line to store it temporarily. Fish and Wildlife staff and volunteers remove marine organisms from the dock.

For updated information - check these links.
dock 004y.jpg
dock 010y.jpg
dock 012y.jpg

A short burst of flame to finish the cleaning. dock 001y.jpg

2012 NATIONAL HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK, WE PLEDGE TO PREPARE

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 30 May 2012 15:49:00 +0000

Oregon Office of Emergency Management IS A FORCE OF NATURE OEM is joining thousands around the country who are pledging to be a “Force of Nature” and taking action to prepare for the potential negative impacts of hurricanes and tropical storms. Hurricane season begins June 1 and extends through November 30, and as we saw last year with Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, severe tropical weather can impact coastal and inland areas alike. Hurricanes and tropical storms are known for the unforgettable visuals we see on the news every year –trees bending due to high winds and heavy rains rendering TV cameras useless as they look over an abandoned beach. But in addition to these obvious effects, hurricanes and tropical storms can often disrupt life for those in coastal and inland areas through evacuations, prolonged power outages, and flooding. With these risks in mind, we ask that you join in pledging to be prepared for hurricane season by: • Knowing your risk: The first step to Being a Force of Nature is to understand how hurricanes and tropical storms can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly and sign up for local alerts from emergency management officials and obtain a NOAA Weather Radio. • Taking action: Actions can be small, simple, and quick. You can pledge to develop an emergency plan based on your local hurricane, severe storm, and flooding hazard, and practice how and where you will evacuate if instructed by your emergency management officials. Post your plan in your home where visitors can see it. Learn how to strengthen your home and business against hurricanes. Download FEMA’s mobile app so you can access important safety tips on what to do before, during and after a hurricane. Understand the National Hurricane Center warning and alerts. • Being an example: Once you have taken action and pledged (or if you already have), share your story with your family and friends. Create a YouTube video, post your story on Facebook, comment on a blog, or send a tweet. Or you can even post the Be a Force of Nature widget on your social media profiles. Join us today and pledge to prepare during National Hurricane Preparedness Week.

Crosswalk enforcement is tomorrow on SE Foster Road with Police

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 22 May 2012 21:47:00 +0000

NEWS ADVISORY PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Bureau of Transportation and Portland Police Bureau advised the general public that a crosswalk enforcement action was scheduled for Wednesday to raise awareness of pedestrian safety and traffic law. The enforcement action will be from 12:30 to 2 p.m. tomorrow at the marked, mid-block crossing of SE Foster Road between SE 68th and SE 69th avenues near 6880 SE Foster Road. This mid-block crossing has a pedestrian median, pavement markings and signage alerting people driving and pedestrians of the crossing. A crosswalk enforcement action includes a pedestrian decoy positioned at marked or unmarked crosswalks. Drivers that fail to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk and pedestrians that jaywalk may be issued a warning or citation by the Portland Police Bureau. Crosswalk enforcement actions are an effective way to communicate pedestrian right of way laws to both drivers and pedestrians. The transportation and police bureaus do enforcement actions in response to community requests and to educate the general public on the rules at marked and unmarked crossings. They are conducted approximately once a month. Visit www.PortlandOnline.com/StreetSmart to learn more about the StreetSmart – Go Safe effort.

How Businesses can work with FEMA

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 21 May 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Doing business with FEMA webinar: FEMA’s Citizen Corps Program hosted a webinar on how to do business with the agency, as well as share business preparedness resources. The 90-minute event offered participants tools, tips, programs and policy guidelines for doing business with FEMA; small business preparedness tips; private sector resources; and an overview of PS-Prep. You can view the webinar at: http://www.citizencorps.gov/resources/webinars/businesspartners.shtm

ABOVE THE FLOOD

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:37:00 +0000

SALEM, Ore. – In January, the Siuslaw River rose and covered much of Mapleton, but 22 area families didn’t have to muck out their homes, tear down wallboard or toss waterlogged treasures. That is because those homes had been elevated using funding from FEMA. After the massive 1996 floods, the Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM) earmarked a portion of its FEMA hazard mitigation funds to elevate homes in hard-hit areas like Mapleton. The goal was to provide long-term solutions to repetitive floods. The January 2012 flooding was the first major test of the elevation projects begun 16 year ago. They passed with flying colors. “The stress is nothing like before,” said Bryan Moore, a Mapleton resident. “There was no water in the house—that’s awesome!” Moore’s wife Mashell remembers what it was like in 1996. Her husband is pastor of the church next door which “always floods.” As the water rose, Bryan and the other men in the neighborhood worked frantically to move everything in the church to higher levels. Mashell was left to deal with their 102-year-old home. “I was by myself, trying to haul things upstairs,” Mashell said. “Then the lights went out and I was working in the dark.” She set out candles but the flame ended up setting a table on fire. “It wrecked everything.” When she learned about the FEMA funding, Mashell was the driving force behind elevating their home. The process took time and plenty of paperwork, but by November 1996 her home had been jacked up onto steel piers. It’s a good thing, because Mapleton flooded again that November. Mapleton’s building requirements also have changed since 1996. New construction now must be built above flood levels. Mike McAllister engineered many of the Mapleton home elevations. A long-time resident himself, McAllister knows firsthand what his neighbors went through then and now. “We had fewer people out of their homes this time,” said McAllister. “And by people I mean entire families including kids and pets.” Fewer people out of their homes also meant less mess, less expense and less disruption to the small town along the river. Lane County Emergency Manager Linda Cook is well aware of the community’s flood issues. She will be requesting hazard mitigation money to elevate at least one more Mapleton home and “will be on the lookout for other interested property owners to include in the application.” If elevating the entire structure is not feasible or possible, “a lot of damage can be mitigated,” said Cook. This could include elevating critical structures such as electrical panels, water heaters and furnaces. Cook also recommends people “learn the art and science of sandbagging so you can be ready to use them whenever the river reaches a certain trigger level.” The dictionary defines elevate as “to move or raise to a higher position.” It also means to raise the spirits. Both definitions apply to the Mapleton home elevations.

Arson Awareness Week: Prevent Youth Firesetting

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 04 May 2012 19:55:00 +0000

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal is pleased to partner with U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), Safe Kids USA, USAonWatch, National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), and the National Association of State Fire Marshals to announce the theme for the May 6-12, 2012, Arson Awareness Week (AAW): Prevent Youth Firesetting. This year's theme is intended to raise public awareness of the collaborative effort with fire and emergency service departments, law enforcement, mental health, social services, schools, and juvenile justice to help reduce the incidents of youth misusing fire. Oregon data shows there were more than 500 reported youth set fires in 2010-2011. The majority of these fires were started by youths from 10-15 years of age. "Most people don't realize the serious consequences of youth-set fire behavior," said Oregon Chief Deputy State Marshal Jim Walker. "Whether it's a young child misusing a cigarette lighter or a teen setting a fire for the fun of it, these behaviors are risky, can be deadly, and result in thousands of dollars in property loss." Parents need to be aware they may be held financially responsible for property damage or injuries resulting from a youth-set fire. Youths should be aware they could be cited with a criminal offense for setting an intentional fire (e.g. arson or reckless burning) and face serious legal, financial, and emotional consequences. Youths who do not understand the power of fire can be seriously burned. Here are some fire safety tips for parents/caregivers: * If your teens have a fascination with fire, check their bedroom for matches, lighters, flammable liquids, fireworks, and other devices. * Monitor the internet sites your teen frequents. * If your teen burns candles or incense, be sure to set clear rules that these items must be extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed. * Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of young children at all times. * Have working smoke alarms in your home and practice a home escape plan. If you are concerned because your child repeatedly sets fires, contact your local fire department now, before tragedy occurs. Oregon has an effective, well-developed network of concerned firefighters, law enforcement officers, and counselors.

RX Drug Take Back Day

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 22:32:00 +0000

News Release Date: April 18, 2012 Contact: Jennifer Versteeg 541-574-3305

THE COMMISSION ON CHILDREN & FAMILIES & THE LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ARE TAKING BACK UNWANTED PRESCRIPTION DRUGS APRIL 28, 2012 IN SOUTH COUNTY.

Lincoln County, OR – On April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Lincoln Commission on Children & Families in partnership with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.

Bring your medications for disposal to The Sheriff’s Office Sub-Station behind Waldport City Hall on Hwy 34. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. In addition to this temporary drop site there are three additional permanent Rx drop boxes at the following locations:
• Newport Police Department/City Hall
• Lincoln City Police Department
• Toledo Police Department

Last October, Americans turned in 377,080 pounds—188.5 tons—of prescription drugs at over 5,300 sites operated by the DEA and nearly 4,000 state and local law enforcement partners. In its three previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners took in almost a million pounds—nearly 500 tons—of pills. The rate of medication abuse continues to rise across the country, among youth, adults, and older adults.

The intentional abuse of prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines—to get high and/or to self-medicate—is often mistaken
to be less harmful than using illicit drugs since prescription and OTC drugs have been tested and approved for medical use.

Follow these 5 simple steps to do your part to prevent medicine abuse and to protect the environment. 1. Take inventory of all prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your home. 2. Secure all medicines, prescription, and OTC. Lock doors and windows when no one is home. 3. Properly dispose of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine; take advantage of permanent disposal sites where available. 4. Take all medicines exactly as prescribed. 5. Talk to your children about the dangers of medication drug abuse... they are listening.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

##

Protect Your Community from Early Spring Flooding Risks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:14:00 +0000

While March brings the promise of warmer weather and longer days, many communities still face the risk of flooding. Just four years ago, late winter storms swept through almost every state from Pennsylvania to Texas, causing flooding in most. In Missouri, paid losses reached over $13 million and policyholders in Texas filed over 3,000 paid losses totaling more than $127 million.

In 2009, counties throughout North Dakota and Minnesota also experienced severe late winter/early spring flooding. A combination of a cold winter, resulting in frozen grounds, coupled with snow melt and heavy rain, raised the Red River to over 20 feet in most places before cresting. This caused over $9 million in damages throughout 42 counties and on two Indian reservations, despite preemptive measures, such as sandbagging, taken by several communities.

In 2010, most of the country experienced a wetter-than-normal winter followed by heavy spring rains that caused flooding. The Red River in the Midwest rose to almost 40 feet before cresting. When the storms hit Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the frozen ground made absorption difficult. Heavy rains began on March 12, drenching most of the eastern portion of Massachusetts. The rain was relentless for days, shattering previous rainfall records and resulted in a federally declared disaster.
Recovering from such devastation is lengthy and difficult, particularly for those without flood insurance. According to FEMA records, nearly 7,000 Massachusetts residences were impacted by the 2010 floods, and 422 experienced major damage.

Over $27 million in total individual assistance was provided, mostly in the form of disaster loans that have to be repaid along with any existing mortgages. Sadly, even after these floods and subsequent flooding from other storms like Hurricane Irene, out of three million households only about 55,800 polices are in force (November 30, 2011).

With flooding occurring in different parts of the nation, now is an excellent time to remind residents and business owners in your community about the importance of flood insurance.
You may also be interested in viewing and utilizing information from a Multimedia News Release (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1109573620877&s=399&e=0019hHsA-DgwsiHd617Djvx6H_Oao6pbXE4lZkdt4NOpz5ZsWcQ3hmdGkHt_LFhKrGh-sX8sBEz8KsU9YdxSxePQE01beC_HkXMKP4VaL2XiJwAGZcpQcyDC1XnOf0Hx5e5Dl28sdI_SYL_Ym7OiGP0MpRq2S4gdSqH) that FloodSmart recently distributed to media outlets around the nation.

This release highlights flooding risks during the winter months and includes video of customer testimonials and dramatic footage of recent floods.

FloodSmart Web Sites Offer New Resources for Consumers, Agents and FloodSmart Partners.

Have you visited FloodSmart’s consumer or agent Web sites lately? In the next few weeks you’ll see several interesting additions, including:
· New Community Resource Page - FloodSmart has a new resource for stakeholders and communities that want to go the extra mile to help property owners better understand their flood risk and the financial impact of flooding. This new page on FloodSmart.gov provides shareable tools for communicating the risks, causes and costs of flooding and a wealth of information about how to empower local residents to obtain flood insurance policies. Learn more at http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1109573620877&s=399&e=0019hHsA-Dgwsi4lG6IfOi9daUobttQAj1qm1gyGEDJnyLsu_0Wr-UV0mBqmPaeTww9wMXfuhVICMwYpZQ8TgYnTKdwfnm_7zxZm4XXEwqvFZoYvZpLRwTJbPy2uShSapMVPWSAslRHLlsYkfy4NJJEh4pm9PcL0SUMsqRSUGiBI83_29l7pKZRjQ==.
· Updated Map Change Toolkit - The Map Change Toolkit is a comprehensive suite of materials that help local leaders, lending, insurance and realty professionals, builders, developers, and others communicate about the insurance implications of local flood map updates. The kit is being updated to include more current data and reflect the evolution of mapping efforts. It includes templates for outreach that can be customized with local data and flood history information. Look for it at http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1109573620877&s=399&e=0019hHsA-DgwsjfBL-tYMl_eItFhD0vraeqQXwWIDAYZZPqmq3u997bD-stL47VhFextaSEGpeCEkktjT-VFsi1hqXUCcYB-qD5uT-4V9W8pJFn0_S5yp9qYH0Fd0Nd4iuM.
FEMA Seeks Public Comments on Draft National Mitigation Framework
FEMA has developed a working draft of the National Mitigation Framework that outlines the roles that individuals, the private sector, community leaders, and others should play in managing risks of disasters. The framework also provides information that state, territorial, tribal, and local governments and private sector partners can use to develop or revise mitigation plans.
FEMA is encouraging feedback from stakeholders on the framework, which can be found at http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1109573620877&s=399&e=0019hHsA-DgwsjtDMP7LVZzpzikm_6Uc626qYu8p-kiiEQAf6xiyG0Z-dU_tBMvTafIvILG00-4oa_dEf8J0wrMiWU31Sg1tQuZcheORWX3QMfVRgqzRpzPew== (“Working Draft: National Mitigation Framework”). To comment, please use the “National Mitigation Framework Submission Form,” which is also located at that site. Submission forms are due Monday, April 2 at noon EDT and should be emailed to PPD8-Engagement@fema.gov.
Look for FloodSmart at Upcoming Conferences

FloodSmart will be attending numerous conferences around the country this year in support of our key stakeholders, including FLASH, ASFPM, NACo, and key state floodplain manager and emergency management agencies. FloodSmart recently presented at NOAA's Social Coast Forum in Charleston, SC, the Michigan Flood and Stormwater Association Conference in Detroit, and the Virginia Water Conference in Richmond, and will have a presence at the National Flood Conference as well. Please visit us at the FloodSmart booth!

Visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web sites at http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1109573620877&s=399&e=0019hHsA-DgwsjVvEJ9Ltzbzw5H_UpdbPbyp-l_pYW94SxzLTe2dA174OcZU4Tk2T12gWNG1MPx2u56BSQU6vwi29ucGOnJqPzZW33FdiJ4IxMP0WfbUJGRIGokA5PKT0s8 FloodSmart.gov and Agents.FloodSmart.gov Email us at info@femafloodsmart.gov FEMA, 500 C Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20472

Tsunami awareness townhall

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 22:37:00 +0000

Dr. Althea Rizzo is putting on several townhall discussions about Tsunamis during the month of March. However, the one tonight in Pacific City is being cancelled due to weather problems. For the rest of the schedule, please go to www.oregon.gov/omd/oem and look for Roadshow schedule.

Thanks

Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris Update

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:16:00 +0000

February 23 – Latest Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris Update
On February 23, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, along with other state agencies received an update on the Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris issue. Following is the most current information NOAA has on this potential issue. As updates are made available we will post them to our website.

It is estimated that during the Earthquake and tsunami that occurred last year in Japan, approximately 25 million tons of debris was generated. This does not mean that 25 million tons of debris ended up in the sea. The quantity and composition of the debris in the sea is unknown. It is highly unlikely that there are any human remains or anything that is radioactive.

Much of the debris has dispersed over a very wide area or sunk to the bottom of the sea and is no longer detectable by satellite. Debris travel is not an exact science but experts agree that it is going every which way with the wind and the tides and is not in large concentrations.

Sightings of debris at sea have consistently gone down in number with a high of approximately 100 sightings in July, 2011 down to 0 sightings in December, 2011. Recovered debris has not been radioactive. Japanese debris has washed up on our shores for years and it is too early for some of the recent debris found on land to be from this particular event.

For more information from NOAA please go to: http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/info/japanfaqs.html#FAQs
If you find items on the beach and wish to report them, please email disasterdebris@noaa.com

###

Oregon Highway Status Report

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:48:00 +0000

The Oregon Department of Transportation offers the following information regarding highways in the state:

ODOT: Oregon Highway Status Report
11:30a 1/20/2012

You must carry chains with you in ALL mountain passes; please be prepared to use them.

Be alert for fallen trees, debris, mudflows and landslides; be prepared for delays and road closures.

* I-5 (Pacific Highway) northbound right lane at exit 299A CLOSED and exit ramp closed due to landslide on exit ramp

* OR 43 (Oswego Highway; SW Macadam Ave.) Right southbound lane CLOSED due to sinkhole

* OR 281 (Hood River Highway) CLOSED between Hood River and Odell (mp 10—14) due to downed trees and power lines North/Central coast, Central Willamette Valley

* U.S. 101 remains RESTRICTED to single lane 4.5 miles south of Newport; flaggers controlling traffic

* OR 18 (Salmon River Hwy) RESTRICTED to single lane intermittently through the Van Duzer Corridor (MP 6.5-21); expect intermittent 10-20-minute delays

* OR 34 (Alsea Highway) CLOSED east and west of Alsea (mp 22 and 44) due to landslides

* OR 36 (Mapleton-Junction City Highway) CLOSED west of Triangle (mp 25) due to a landslide; no estimate on reopening

* OR 99W RESTRICTED to one lane at the OR 34 South Bypass (mp 84.95), due to high water; semi-trucks only are being allowed through; detour in place

* OR 126 (McKenzie Highway) CLOSED between Vida and Blue River due to landslide; no estimate for reopening

* OR 153 (Bellevue-Amity Highway) CLOSED due to high water; no detour

* OR 180 (Eddyville-Blodgett Hwy) CLOSED at milepost 7 due to landslide

* OR 213 CLOSED one mile north of Marquam in Clackamas County due to road erosion; short detour; no estimate for reopening

* OR 229 (Siletz Hwy) CLOSED between mileposts 9 and 15 due to high water Southern Oregon

* OR 38 will reopen this afternoon; expect minor delays

* OR 241 (Coos River Highway) will reopen this afternoon

* OR 255 (Carpenterville Highway) remains CLOSED; detour in place; expect 10-15-minute delays Central Oregon All state highways OPEN; chains required on all vehicles on I-84 east of The Dalles Eastern Oregon All state highways OPEN; extremely icy conditions in Umatilla and Morrow County area. Chains required on all vehicles on I-84 east of The Dalles to Pendleton, and on I-82, OR 11 and OR 204 in Umatilla County

For more information, contact:
TripCheck.com, 5-1-1, 800-977-6368

Tips for Weathering Power Outages

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:28:00 +0000

In anticipation of the next weather front moving in today, the city of Corvallis offered tips for weathering power outages (from a City of Corvallis press release:

In anticipation of high winds this afternoon, Public Safety personnel are reminding local residents to stock up on essential supplies in case of power outages. Falling trees may take out powerlines, causing outages.

Residents should be prepared for this to occur tonight. It is recommended to keep a five-day supply of water and nonperishable food items that are compact, lightweight and nutritional, taking into account the family’s tastes and unique needs. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water. Foods that are high in calories and nutrition should be included. Preparation kits also should include flashlights, light sticks, candles, extra batteries and battery-powered radios.

If the power goes out, people should take the following steps:

 Check the fuse or breaker box.
 Call the utility company.
 Turn off all electrical equipment.
 Turn on a porch light and one inside light so utility crews know when service is restored.
 Listen to the radio for updates.

NEVER touch a downed powerline and expect every line to be live. If a line is touching someone, stay away. You cannot help. Call 911 for emergency assistance. If a powerline falls across your vehicle, do not get out. Wait for assistance to arrive.

A complete listing of current road conditions in Corvallis and Benton County can be located by high water and flooding. The current list of high water locations can be found by going to the City of Corvallis website at www.ci.corvallis.or.us/hazards or the Benton County Public Works Site www.co.benton.or.us/pw/index.php. Residents can also call a Benton County Public Works information line at 541-766-6821 to report problems. An information line at 541-766-6120 is available to residents of the city and county to call for updated information regarding flooding, road closures, and travel restrictions.

All public safety entities in Corvallis and Benton County would like to remind drivers to exercise caution driving on the streets and highways in Corvallis and Benton County. Be on the look-out for police officers and flaggers directing traffic in the area, especially in the hours of darkness. Do not drive into standing water since it is difficult to gauge the depth, and vehicles can be swept away in less than 2 feet of water.

Red Cross Offers Flood Recovery Information

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:52:00 +0000

The Red Cross has information to help flood victims repair their homes in the aftermath of a flood disaster. Information is available in a PDF format on their website in both English and Spanish. See the links below for the PDF booklet.

English: http://www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/file_cont333_lang0_150.pdf

Spanish: http://www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/repairingFloodedHomeSp.pdf

Safety tips for flood response and recovery

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:43:00 +0000

Safety is essential while transitioning from response to recovery. The Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division offers advice for flood response and recovery in this Press Release (January 20, 2012; media contact is Kathleen Vidoloff, email: Kathleen.G.Vidoloff@state.or.us)

January 20, 2012
Oregon Public Health gives tips for staying healthy and safe during winter storms

Several Oregon counties have experienced flooding due to the winter storms that moved into the area earlier this week. Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division wants to offer simple tips on how Oregonians can stay safe and healthy during inclement weather.

“The floods this week will leave devastation behind them, and people will want to clean up and repair their homes and communities as soon as possible so they can move forward with their lives and livelihoods. Some simple precautions can help protect their health as they do so,” said Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., Oregon Public Health director.

Some tips to be safe during and after the storm:

• Injury prevention: Stay out of flood waters. Even the strongest swimmers can drown in flood waters. Do not drive through standing water. Never make contact with power lines or objects that are in contact with power lines. Wear eye protection when cleaning up storm debris.
• Water: Check for local boil-water advisories. Do not use contaminated water to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, make ice or make baby formula.
• Well water: If your well has been affected by flood waters, it is recommended that you boil your water for at least one minute at a rolling boil, or purchase water from a safe source. Before resuming normal use of the well, have the water tested for possible bacteria and pollutants.
• Foods: Do not eat foods that have come in contact with flood waters. Throw away food that cannot be kept cold or properly heated due to lack of power.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Don't use a generator, pressure washer, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window, door, or vent. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, seek fresh air and consult with a health care professional right away.
• Home safety: If there is standing water in your home, never turn power on or off yourself – contact an electrician.
• Chainsaw safety: Wear appropriate clothing, such as safety glasses and heavy work gloves. Always cut at waist level or below. With an electric chain saw, use extreme caution to avoid electrical shock. Avoid contact with power lines.
• First aid: Immediately clean all wounds with soap and clean water. If your skin or eyes come in contact with hazardous materials wash thoroughly with decontaminated water. Avoid getting cut because cuts can lead to tetanus. If possible, make sure your tetanus vaccination is up to date.
• Mold: Remove mold by washing with soap and water and letting surfaces dry completely. Some materials such as moldy clothing, ceiling tiles and sheet rock may have to be replaced. If mold-related illness is suspected, consult a health care professional.

For more information about injury prevention, food safety, wells, drinking water, and carbon monoxide during and after flooding, go to public.health.oregon.gov.

Highway Update for Lincoln County

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:43:00 +0000

ODOT/Valley, No. Coast: --Highway Update for Lincoln County-- High water and downed trees continue to affect travel on state highways in Lincoln County.
-OR 18 (Salemon River Hwy) remains closed between west of Otis and Grand Ronde due to downed trees. A commercial logging crew is working to clear the roadway as safety allows. One lane of travel could be opened by early afternoon. Standby for updates.
-US 20 (Corvallis-Newport Hwy) is experiencing high water near Chitwood, approximately 17 miles east of Newport. One lane of travel is open. Motorists should use extreme caution.
-OR 34 (Alsea Hwy) is closed at milepost 23, approximately 17 miles west of Alsea due to a landslide. There is no estimate on reopening.
-US 101 remains restricted to a single lane of travel 4.5 miles south of Newport where the northbound lane has eroded. Flaggers will control travel 24/7. Once environmental permits are issued, the eroded lane can be rebuilt in 4-5 days. Until then, the restriction will remain in place.
-OR 180 (Eddyville-Blodgett Hwy) is closed to through traffic due to high water. Local residents will have access.
Motorists should reduce speed and be prepared to encounter high water and debris on the roadway.

For more information, contact:
Rick Little, ODOT PIO, 541-505-2069
TripCheck.com, 5-1-1, 800-977-6368

Give the Gift of Preparedness this Holiday Season

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:49:00 +0000

This holiday season, one of the best gifts you can give your loved ones is the gift of disaster preparedness. Giving emergency supplies to help build a disaster supply kit and having an emergency communications plan can go a long way to ensure that your family is prepared for any emergency.

A list of possible gifts that may assist in disasters includes:
• Disaster kits for homes, offices and cars (first aid kits; food, water and prescription medications for 72 hours, extra clothing, blankets, and flashlights)
• NOAA weather radios with extra batteries
• Enrollment in a CPR or first-aid class
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers (for the kitchen, garage, car, etc.)
• Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire
• Winter car kits (emergency flares, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and fluorescent distress flags, jumper cables)
• Pet disaster kits (food, water, leashes, dishes, toys, and carrying case or crate)
• Battery powered lamps

Emergency supplies are important, but it is also essential to discuss what your family will do in case of an emergency. This year, consider at least one of these gift ideas. You just may save the life of a friend or family member. For more information and preparedness tips, please visit Ready.gov and FEMA.gov

SUBJECT: Launch of 2012 Resolve to Be Ready Campaign

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:21:00 +0000

Roughly half of all Americans make New Year’s resolutions and commit to improving their lifestyles or reaching a long-term goal. This year, why not make a resolution that is easy to keep – and can save lives and protect property. For 2012, Resolve to be Ready for emergencies by taking simple steps to prepare your family, your home, your business, and your community in the face of potential disaster.

As emergency managers we can serve as a great influence upon our family and friends and encourage them to take steps to become prepared in the face of emergencies and disasters. Now is the time to plan what you, your family, and your pets will need in advance of an emergency; how you will communicate; and what supplies you will need to keep in your home, car, or office. The more they know about what to do in an emergency, the more confident they will feel in their abilities to manage through a disaster.

You can start by taking these simple steps:
* Be informed. Know the hazards and risks in your area and learn what you need to do to get ready for them.

* Make a family emergency plan. Know how you would communicate with and find your loved ones if a disaster strikes. For example, think about how you would reach your kids at school or your spouse at work. If you had to evacuate, where would you go. Thinking this through in advance will make a big difference.

* Build an emergency supply kit. Have one both at home and in the car that includes water, food, and first aid supplies to help you survive if you lose power or get stranded in your car. This is especially important for dealing with icy roads and snowstorms this winter.

* Get Involved. Be an advocate and educator for safety and emergency preparedness within your community. Contact your local Citizen Corps.

Also the use of modern-day technology can help individuals and families prepare, adapt, and recover from disruptions brought on by emergencies or disasters.

Learn how to send updates via text and internet from your mobile phone to your contacts and social channels in case voice communications are not available. Store your important documents such as personal and financial records in a secure “Cloud” or on a flash or jump drive that you can keep readily available so it is accessible.
Create an Emergency Information Document at Ready.gov by using the Family Emergency Plan template in Google Docs or by downloading the Ready Family Emergency Plan to record your emergency plans.

FEMA is only part of our nation’s emergency management team – along with our other federal partners, state and local governments, non-profit and voluntary organizations, the private sector and most importantly the public.

So this year, as you thinking about this New Year’s resolutions, why not Resolve to be Ready. Learn how at Ready.gov/Resolve.

"LIGHTS ON FOR LIFE DAY" AND "NATIONAL HOLIDAY LIFESAVER WEEKEND"

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:40:00 +0000

News Release from: Oregon State PoliceREMEMBERING LIVES AFFECTED BY IMPAIRED DRIVERS - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, Posted: December 14th, 2011 8:42

Oregon State Police (OSP), Oregon State Sheriff's Association, and Oregon Association Chiefs of Police ask you to remember something very important whenever you see headlights on vehicles during daytime hours Friday: Drive sober during the holidays and every day in Oregon and around the country.Every year since 1991 on the weekend preceding Christmas, the International Association of Chiefs of Police have organized "National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend", an effort to heighten public awareness and increase the apprehension of drunk and drugged drivers.

In remembrance of those who have been affected by an impaired driver, drivers are asked to turn on their headlights Friday, December 16, for "National Lights on for Life" day.This year starting at 12:01 a.m. Friday, December 16, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 18, police officers nationwide will be involved in the first of three important statewide and national impaired driving crackdown periods during "National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend".Last year during "National Holiday Lifesaver Weekend", December 17 - 19, three people died in 3 separate fatal traffic crashes on Oregon roads. One of the three fatalities occurred in an alcohol-involved crash.OSP troopers reported 45 DUII arrests during last year's holiday lifesaver weekend period.OSP, OSSA, OACP and ODOT offer these simple but important safety tips:* If you are planning to drink, plan ahead: designate a sober driver or arrange for a taxi to pick you up at a set time.

* If you are hosting a party, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and help your guests be responsible. Don't let someone who has been drinking get behind the wheel.

* Volunteer to be a designated driver.

* Walking or bicycling after dark? Wear bright clothes to help you stand out.

* Buckle up, every trip, every time.

* Drive defensively at all times.

* Remember our weather and road conditions can change quickly, without warning. Know before you go and be alert while driving at all times.

Report impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1 or OSP at 1-800-24DRUNK (1-800-243-7865).More information regarding impaired driving and nationwide enforcement crackdown efforts is available on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website at:http://www.nhtsa.gov/Impaired

Prepare Your Community for Winter Flooding Risks

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 23:38:00 +0000

The arrival of cold weather doesn't mean that the risk of flooding is over. In fact, winter often brings severe conditions such as snow, heavy rains, melting, and ice jams, which can pose major problems for home and business owners in your community. In coastal areas, winter storms such as Nor’easters often generate high winds that can cause widespread beach erosion and coastal flooding.

Some communities in western states face days and even weeks of rain during the winter months, and others face an increased risk of flooding because of wildfires that burn away vegetation and leave the ground barren and unable to absorb water. Near the end of the season, melting snow can flow into lakes, streams and rivers, causing excess water to spill over their banks or overtop levees.

Now is a good time to ensure that residents of your community are protected by flood insurance. Encourage them to visit FloodSmart.gov to learn about their flood risk and find an agent who can protect them with a flood insurance policy. In addition, visit FloodSmart’s new partner section at

www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/partner/partner_index.jsp to learn about the wide variety of communications tools that are available to you, such as:

• Testimonials from home and business owners impacted by flooding.
• Shareable interactive tools that you can post on your own websites.
• A Map Updates Toolkit and links to information about map changes around the United States, which will help residents of your community better understand their flooding risks.
• A Flood Outreach Toolkit, which provides resources to help the audiences you communicate with on a regular basis (other community officials, the public and the media) understand the importance of flood preparedness and protection. The materials are designed to support your outreach to victims of flood disasters. The materials include core messages and information about flood risk and flood insurance that are appropriate for use in most areas of the country. Find this toolkit online at www.floodsmart.gov/toolkits.

Two-Year PRP Eligibility Extension Working Well Two-Year PRP Eligibility Extension Continues to Benefit Policyholders

On January 1, 2011, FEMA launched a new rating option called the Two-Year Preferred Risk Policy Eligibility Extension that enables property owners who find themselves newly mapped into high-risk areas to save money on their policies. To help launch the new rating option, FEMA used the FloodSmart campaign to reach out to the public, agents, WYOs, community officials and other stakeholder groups.

The purpose was to inform them about the new cost-savings option and how property owners could apply. The various stakeholder groups showed great support by sharing the information.

FEMA recently updated a WYO industry committee on its progress and reported that 40,000 PRP Extensions are currently in force (through August 2011), with up to 100,000 expected by year’s-end. FEMA complimented and thanked the WYOs, agents, and community officials for helping make this a successful launch!

Make sure as your county or community goes through a mapping change that you are promoting both grandfathering and the 2-Year PRP Extension as well. For more information, go to FloodSmart.gov/prpextension.

AnnouncementsNFIP Extended Until December 16 - With the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) facing expiration on November 18, 2011, Congress passed on November 17th (and the President then signed) a short-term funding bill that included an extension of the NFIP. This extension expires on December 16, 2011. It is important that insurance agents and WYO companies continue to monitor the status of the NFIP. Should the Program lapse, FEMA has issued updated guidance for agents and WYOs in NFIP Bulletin W-11084

(www.nfipiservice.com/stakeholder/pdf/bulletin/w-11084.pdf).

Share your thoughts on this newsletter - As part of our continuing effort to ensure that our newsletter is meeting your needs, we are soliciting input on its content, frequency, and subject matter. Please let us know what you think by emailing us at info@femafloodsmart.com.

Preparing to Recover

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:15:00 +0000

After a major disaster, you may need financial
assistance and will want to document any property
loss for insurance and income tax purposes. Having
ready access to the documents necessary for
completing application forms, as well as those which
could be difficult to replace, will help reduce delay
and frustration.

At A Minimum:
1. Gather property insurance papers (home,
auto, boat, etc.) and make copies.

2. Gather health insurance papers (medical
provider, dental provider, life, extended
disability, etc.) and make copies.

3. Gather financial papers (bank, investment,
retirement, etc.) and make copies.

4. Gather wills, powers of attorney, and estate
papers and make copies.

5. Take photos or videos of all valuables as
documentation for insurance claims.

• store these copies and photos in a safe
deposit box, or in a ziplock bag in your
freezer (you may want to disguise these
documents by putting them in a clean box
like a frozen pizza box).

As Nasty Storm Battered Alaska, Ham Radio Operators Offered Vital Link | Alaska Dispatch

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:20:00 +0000

As Nasty Storm Battered Alaska, Ham Radio Operators Offered Vital Link Alaska Dispatch