Oregon Emergency Management - Preparedness and Disaster Blog

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

Nationwide EAS test - it was a test

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 22:28:00 +0000

Well, that is what tests are for, right? Obviously, the first ever nationwide test of the emergency alert system had some difficulties today. Some stations did not receive the message from FEMA, some had no audio or garbled audio and some stations ran the test just fine.

FEMA and the FCC were testing this nationwide code system in order to find out what works and what didn't. The message went directly from FEMA to the state distribution points. Oregon Office of Emergency Management is NOT a distribution point. We will, however, work with the Federal Government as needed to make the system work properly in the future.

The good news is that the state system works perfectly and Oregonians will always get the messages through our local system.

Nationwide EAS test 11:00 a.m. in Oregon

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:08:00 +0000

As part of their ongoing efforts to keep our country and communities safe during emergencies, the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Emergency Management Agency will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The EAS test plays a key role in ensuring the nation is prepared for all hazards, and that the U.S. public can receive critical and vital information, should it ever be needed.

The first nationwide test will be conducted Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. ET. This test may last up to three and a half minutes, and will be transmitted via television and radio stations within the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. Similar to local emergency alert system tests, an audio message will interrupt television and radio programming indicating: "This is a test." When the test is over, regular programming will resume.

For more information about the nationwide Emergency Alert System test, please visit http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6407 and www.FCC.gov. On November 9 at 2 p.m. EDT, please remember: Don't stress; it's only a test.
· FEMA Administrator's Message - In English http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6407
· FEMA Administrator's Message - In Spanish http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6408
· FEMA Press Release - http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=55722
· FEMA Blog - http://blog.fema.gov/2011/10/emergency-alert-system-test-one-month.html
· FCC Website - http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test

November 9 – This is a TEST!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 19:52:00 +0000

On Wednesday, November 9 at 11:00 a.m. Oregonians will hear on their radios and see on their televisions a test of the emergency alert system (EAS). The test will last approximately three (3) minutes. Normal programming will return following the test. This is a nationwide test organized by the FCC and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This test will be different than those we have had in the past. The November 9 test will utilize a "live" national alert code, i.e., a coded message that will present itself as an actual emergency announcement, not a test. This is necessary in order to allow FCC and FEMA to test the actual working order reliability of legacy EAS equipment and the state of readiness of EAS operators and participants. Television stations are being encouraged to run a scroll at the bottom of the screen throughout the test stating that it is just a test.

Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM), FEMA, Broadcasters, NOAA and many other agencies are diligently trying to get the word to people that this is, in fact, a test. Often, citizens who are unsure of whether the alert is real or a test, place calls to 911 which tie up the phone lines for legitimate emergencies.

If anyone has questions about the test, please do NOT call 911. Please tell your neighbors and friends about this test so that Oregonians will be the most informed of all the states and will not be caught off guard by this unusual test of the EAS equipment.

More information can be found at www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 21:04:00 +0000

As part of our larger efforts to strengthen our nation’s preparedness and resiliency, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct the first nation-wide test of the Emergency Alert System on November 9th, at 2 p.m. eastern standard time.

Testing the Emergency Alert System plays a key role in evaluating and improving the systems we need in place to ensure our nation is prepared for all hazards and that people within its borders are able to receive critical and vital information through the system, should it ever be needed.

It’s important to keep in mind that this is not a pass or fail test of the Emergency Alert System, but an opportunity to improve the system on a national level. Below we have provided a template for both a press release and/or a newsletter that you can use in your organizations to help inform.

For additional information and FAQ’s, please visit the FCC Web Site. If you have additional FEMA-Private-Sector-Specific questions, please contact our Private Sector Division Office at: FEMA-Private-Sector@dhs.gov.

UMCD makes its last delivery of ton containers to UMCDF

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:55:00 +0000

UMATILLA CHEMICAL DEPOT, Hermiston, Ore. – The Umatilla Chemical Depot delivered the last stockpiled ton containers filled with mustard chemical agent today shortly before 11 a.m. to the Umatilla Chemical Agent Disposal Facility (UMCDF).

A brief ceremony highlighting the event took place near the depot headquarters with employees and invited public officials.

“Today’s milestone marks the first time in more than 40 years that chemical weapons will no longer be stored at the Umatilla Chemical Depot,” said Lt. Col. Kris Perkins, depot commander. “Thanks to the efforts of our work force, we were able to safely and compliantly store, secure and ship more than 220,000 chemical weapons. I am very proud of the work force and our community partners in working together to achieve such a historic milestone.”

Depot officials are projecting the last remaining ton containers will be disposed of by the end of October, 2011.

Chemical weapons were brought to the depot in 1962 and have been in storage since that time. Destruction of the chemical agent stored at the depot began in the fall of 2004.

Today’s final shipment of weapons comes 70 years after the depot’s formation on Oct. 14, 1941. The depot received its first conventional weapons on Oct. 27, 1941, two months before the U.S. entered World War II. All of the conventional weapons were shipped from the depot in 1994.
# # #

Preparedness Considerations for the Pets, Livestock, and Animals in Our Homes and in Our Lives

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 20:12:00 +0000

Click on this link to log in at 1:50 pm on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011
https://connect.hsin.gov/pets/

No registration is required, and the webinar is free.

From the home to the farm, pets, livestock, and animals are an important part of our lives. However, when it comes to preparing for disasters, they can pose some unique challenges and it's important that they are included in emergency and disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

If you are part of an organization that does work in the pet and livestock field, or you are a pet or livestock owner, this call is for you. Join us and hear from leaders in animal emergency management about:

Disaster Preparedness Resources and Reimbursements available to those with pets and animals in their lives

Emerging trends and considerations in pet and animal emergency management
Personal experiences with animal emergency management

What's required in your emergency planning concerning pets and animals

What you can do to bring animal preparedness to your home, organization, and community.

IN CELEBRATION OF CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY WEEK

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 21:05:00 +0000

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.

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:01:00 +0000

-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.

Americans need to prepare for emergencies

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:14:00 +0000

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31, 2011 - Recent weather events such as Hurricane Irene, the earthquake on the East Coast and other natural disasters highlight the need for Americans to prepare for emergencies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Red Cross, the Ad Council and Google Crisis Response are collaborating to launch a new preparedness web resource, Get Tech Ready, on behalf of the Ready campaign.

Released just before the start of National Preparedness Month, this new resource educates individuals and families about how using modern-day technology can help them prepare, adapt and recover from disruptions brought on by emergencies or disasters.

A recent American Red Cross survey showed that the internet, including online news sites and social media platforms, is the third most popular way for Americans to gather emergency information and let their loved ones know they are safe.

"As technology becomes more a part of our daily lives, people are turning to it during emergencies as well. We need to utilize these tools, to the best of our abilities, to engage and inform the public, because no matter how much federal, state and local officials do, we will only be successful if the public is brought in as part of the team," FEMA Administrator, W. Craig Fugate.

"During Hurricane Irene, we saw people using new technologies in many ways, whether it was thousands of people downloading our new shelter finder App or others using our Safe and Well site and social media to let their friends and family know they are OK, " said Gail McGovern, President and CEO of the American Red Cross. "People now have more varied resources available at their fingertips that they can use before, during and after emergencies."

Get Tech Ready provides Americans with tips on how to use technological resources before, during and after a crisis to communicate with loved ones and manage your financial affairs. Preparedness tips on the website include:
• 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 the cloud or on a secure and remote area or flash or jump drive that you can keep readily available so they can be accessed from anywhere; and
• Create an Emergency Information Document using the Ready.gov Family Emergency Plan template in Google Docs or by downloading the Ready Family Emergency Plan to record your emergency plans.

"Get Tech Ready is a resource that will truly help people in the US and around the world understand how they can use widely available technology to prepare for potential crises," said Nigel Snoud, Product Manager, Google Crisis Response. "We're thrilled to be working with FEMA, the American Red Cross, and the Ad Council on this public service project."

"We are delighted to collaborate with FEMA, Google and the American Red Cross to expand our Ready messages through this new web site to educate more Americans about the vital need to get prepared in advance of an potential emergency," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "The web site will provide access to critical resources to Americans addressing the importance of using technology as part of their individual and family preparedness plans."

Launched in 2003, National Preparedness Month is designed to encourage Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies throughout the year. The Ready campaign was also launched in 2003 by FEMA in partnership with the Ad Council. Since its launch, media outlets have donated more than $900 million in advertising time and space for the PSAs. The new PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
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.
AMERICAN RED CROSS
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit http://www.redcross.org/ or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.
The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

FEMA does not endorse any non-Federal government organizations or products.

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) fire update for Wednesday Aug. 24, 2011.

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:15:00 +0000

FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS:
The 14-acre Cummins Creek Fire burning in the Central Oregon District-John Day Unit was fully bulldozer-lined last evening. Today seven fire engines, two hand crews and a water tender remain at the fire to conduct mop-up.

The 325-acre Elephant Rock Fire burning in the Northeast Oregon District-Pendleton Unit is 80 percent contained with full containment expected later today.

FIRES ON OTHER LANDS:
The 53,000-acre Hancock Complex reported Aug. 24 burning northeast of Clarno along the John Day River is 70 percent contained. The Bureau of Land Management is leading the suppression effort on this lightning-caused fire.

The 1,500-acre Webster Fire reported Aug. 24 burning four miles northeast of Warm Springs is 30 percent contained. The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs is the lead agency on the lightning-caused fire.

The 128-acre Jim White Ridge Complex reported Aug. 3 burning 10 miles east of Cove is uncontained. The U.S. Forest Service is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused complex of fires.

The 2,006-acre Desert Meadows Fire reported Aug. 25 burning 15 miles south of Frenchglen is 55 percent contained. The Bureau of Land Management is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused fire.

The 61,841-acre High Cascades Fire complex reported Aug. 24 burning along the Deschutes River is 10 percent contained. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused fire.

The 1,605-acre Smyth Creek Fire reported Aug. 25 burning 15 miles south of Diamond is 70 percent contained. The Bureau of Land Management is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused fire.

The 550-acre Incident 615 fire reported Aug. 25 burning three miles southeast of Twickingham is 40 percent contained. The Bureau of Land Management is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused fire.

The 499-acre Lauserica Fire reported Aug. 26 burning 20 miles northwest of Fields is 60 percent contained. The Bureau of Land Management is leading the suppression effort on the lightning-caused fire.

OTHER FIRE INFORMATION:
For information on wildfires in all jurisdictions within Oregon, go to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center website, www.nwccweb.us/, or to the national Incident Information System website, www.inciweb.org/state/38.

ABOUT THIS UPDATE:
The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for fire protection on private and state-owned forestland, and on a limited amount of other forestlands, including those owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in western Oregon. However, because fires starting on one ownership type may spread to others, and because of the need to share firefighting resources, agencies commonly work closely together.

This update focuses primarily on firefighting activity on Oregon Department of Forestry-protected land, and on the department's role as a partner in fighting major fires that start on land protected by other agencies.

FIRE STATISTICS:
Fire statistics are for the current year and the average over the past 10 years for the 16 million acres of private and public forestland protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry:

January 1, 2011, through today:
Lightning-caused fires: 105 fires burned 279 acres
Human-caused fires: 334 fires burned approximately 1,014 acres
Total: 439 fires burned approximately 1,293 acres

10-year average (Jan. 1 through the present date in the year):
Lightning-caused fires: 280 fires burned approximately 20,708 acres
Human-caused fires: 534 fires burned approximately 3,592 acres
Total: 814 fires burned approximately 24,300 acres

SAFETY TIPS
For firefighter safety tips, go to:
http://wildfirelessons.net/uploads/6mfs/home.html

FIRE WEATHER
For current fire weather information, go to:
www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/fire.shtml

WILDFIRE SMOKE FORECASTS
For current smoke information:
http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/fire.shtml#Smoke_Management_Information

FIRE INFORMATION
News media may contact the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters office for fire information, (503) 945-7200, weekdays during business hours. After business hours and on weekends, media may obtain fire information by calling the duty pager (503) 370-0403. The duty officer will return media pages promptly.

ODF also maintains a blog that includes breaking news on wildfires, along with current fire statistics. Visit the blog at: http://wildfireoregondeptofforestry.blogspot.com/

Carelessness can destroy Oregon's beauty. Learn what you can do to prevent wildfires. Visit the Keep Oregon Green Association on the web at www.keeporegongreen.org/.

Fire restrictions increased in No. Cascade District

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:32:00 +0000

August 19, 2011
Contact: Jamie Paul, Oregon Dept. of Forestry – No. Cascade District, 503-829-2216

MOLALLA – Warm, dry weather has prompted the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to increase fire safety restrictions in the North Cascade Forest Protection District beginning Wednesday, Aug. 17. The North Cascade District protects private, State and some Federal forestlands in portions of Multnomah, Clackamas, Marion and northern Linn counties. A regulated use closure is now in place for all private and public lands within the ODF protection boundary. Most summers, these restrictions would already be in place, but this year’s weather allowed for a delay.

Fire season officially started July 13 and although the dry summer weather has been late in coming this year, vegetation has now had time to dry out and the fire threat is in full force. The decision to institute the regulated-use closure in the region was based on the continued drying of wildland fuels, and forecasted weather patterns calling for warmer and drier weather with no measurable precipitation in the foreseeable future.

“The message right now is that we’ve had a delayed start to fire season and because of that, people have gotten complacent about fire danger,” said Christian Paul, protection supervisor for the ODF Molalla Unit.

Several recent fires in the Molalla, Colton and Clarkes-Highland areas have caused concern for ODF fire managers. One fire took off quickly in dried grasses and threatened a nearby barn. For all-wood buildings, ODF recommends keeping nearby vegetation well-trimmed and putting a few feet of rock between the building and the grass.

“I think one of the take-home prevention methods ODF would recommend is for homeowners to keep vegetation lean and green around their houses and structures,” Paul said.

Another fire was caused by juveniles. ODF reminds parents to stay aware of their children’s activities during the summer months and to reinforce the message that fire, matches and lighters are “tools, not toys.”

The stepped-up restrictions include the following:

1. Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and on sand or gravel bars that lie between water and high water marks that are free of vegetation.

2. Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at designated locations. Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.

3. Chainsaw use is prohibited, between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Level I and II. Chainsaw use is permitted at all other hours, if the following firefighting equipment is present with each operating saw: one ax, one shovel, and one operational 8 oz. or larger fire extinguisher. In addition a fire watch is required at least one hour following the use of each saw.

4. Chainsaw use is prohibited in areas subject to Industrial Fire Precaution Level III and IV.

5. Use of motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and all terrain vehicles, is prohibited, except on improved roads or for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.

6. All motor vehicles must be equipped with one gallon of water or one operational 2-½ lb. or larger fire extinguisher, one ax, and one shovel, except when traveling on state highways and county roads and driveways. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one operational 2-½ lb. or larger fire extinguisher, except when traveling on state highways and county roads.

7. Use of fireworks is prohibited.

8. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a cleared area and if a water supply is present.

9. Mowing of dried and cured grass with power driven equipment is prohibited, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.

10. Blasting is prohibited, between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.

11. Use of exploding targets is prohibited.

12. Any electric fence controller in use shall be: 1) Listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services; and 2) Operated in compliance with manufacturer instruction for fire safe operation.

For more information, contact your local Oregon Dept. of Forestry office. In Molalla, call 503-829-2216. In Lyons, call 503-859-2151.

September is National Preparedness Month

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:21:00 +0000

FEMA Encourages Americans to Participate in September’s National Preparedness Month
Eighth Annual National Preparedness Month in September: "A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare," Encourages Americans to Take Simple Steps to Prepare for Emergencies

WASHINGTON - The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Ready Campaign, in partnership with Citizen Corps and the Ad Council, today announced the launch of new web tools that will make it easier for individuals and organizations throughout the nation to join the 2011 National Preparedness Month (NPM) coalition and pledge their support to help prepare their families, businesses and communities for emergencies of all kinds.

The eighth annual NPM will kickoff this September, using the slogan: "A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare." The campaign seeks to transform awareness into action by encouraging all Americans to take the necessary steps to ensure that their homes, workplaces and communities are prepared for disasters and emergencies of all kinds.

"As we move forward with planning for this year's events and activities, we also recognize that this September marks the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "By doing what we can to ensure that our communities, and our nation, are prepared to respond and recover from all types of disasters and hazards, we honor the memory of those who were lost that day."

Individuals and groups can now register to become NPM coalition members by visiting http://community.fema.gov. Once registered, members have access to a toolkit that includes suggestions for activities and events, templates, articles, banners and customizable materials. Coalition members also have access to an events calendar allowing them to post and promote preparedness events, share success stories, and participate in national and regional discussion forums to engage with fellow coalition members and FEMA representatives.

By hosting events, promoting volunteer programs and sharing emergency preparedness information, coalition members can help ensure that their communities are prepared for emergencies. Becoming a coalition member is easy and free, so register now to get started. Nearly 2,000 coalition members have already joined this year's campaign.
While NPM is held each September, FEMA's Ready Campaign promotes individual emergency preparedness at home, in the workplace, and throughout America's communities throughout the year. Ready is a national campaign, produced in partnership with The Ad Council, designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

The Ready Campaign's websites (ready.gov and listo.gov) and toll-free numbers (1-800-BE-READY and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide free emergency preparedness information and resources available in English and Spanish. Additionally, through FEMA's partnership with the Ad Council, public service announcements are available to increase the American public's involvement in preparedness.

###

12 Reasons to take time off

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 21:27:00 +0000

Jeannie Walters is the founder of 360Connext, a Chicago-based consulting firm specializing in the cornerstones of customer experience: customer engagement, employee engagement, and connections like social media. She is a board member of the Chicago chapter of the Social Media Club and a member of Faith Popcorn’s Talent Bank, a group of experts tapped for trend-setting information.

It’s that time of year, and many of us are taking some time to recharge and rest up. I have become a believer in the necessity. I used to work, work, and work some more and basically complain to anyone who would listen that I couldn’t take time off.

Looking back, it was a fool’s game. Without time off, you miss out on some of your best “work.”

I’m heading to a week of vacation soon and thought it was a good time to discuss the lessons I’ve learned from dedicating myself to finding time for vacation each year.

No. Matter. What.

Here are the 12 most important reasons to take time off:

1. Your loved ones, remember them?

It’s easy in this 24/7, constantly connected world to work too much. Even when we’re not working, we’re still checking email, sharing blogs on Twitter, and essentially leaving half our brains with our work. Taking some time off with people you care about (and focusing on those in-the-moment times) reminds you why they’re your loved ones. They matter more than anything.

2. This is your brain on vacation.

I’ve found it takes a few days to shut off the manic, ever-present and ever-busy chatter in my head. The “OMG I forgot to do xyz” or the “If I don’t find time to do xyz, my business will never be what I want it to be” drifts away after the third day. I’ve found I focus on amazing things like hummingbirds, novels, and hearing myself belly-laugh in a way that’s been gone for a while.

3. The unbearable lightness of being unscheduled

I go out of my way to not have too much of a plan on vacation. The decadence of enjoying a second cup of coffee while still not having a clue what the day holds is something rare and sacred. My body lets go of the tension that I carry around in my neck and shoulders the 51 other weeks of the year.

4. The realization that life/work/committees go on without you.

We all love to make ourselves a little too important. How can our businesses, our organizations, or the PTA go on without us? Take a week away, and it becomes crystal clear. Not only can they go on, but they should. Take that, Ego.

5. Creative inspiration when you least expect it.

Gaze at the mountains, study the waves, or take in the view from a hammock; you’ll be amazed at what comes to you.

6. Discovery, discovery, discovery.

I like all types of vacations—adventuring, exploring new places, and relaxing with nothing to do. Whichever kind you take, you’re bound to discover something new. A small town in Michigan might bring you a new favorite beer discovery. A tour of Europe might lead you to a new favorite artist. Whatever it is, never stop discovering. It’s good for your whole being. Vacation helps you do that.

7. Time away helps clients, employees, bosses ,and others appreciate you more.

It’s not easy to tell someone you’ll be “offline” for any amount of time, especially if it’s saying it to the demanding boss or client. Doing it, however, makes them respect the time you give them and the value you bring even more. Living without you for a week could be just what they need.

8. Respect yourself.

The very act of saying, “I’m away, and I’m not working for you during this time,” helps set boundaries. Not only do demanding clients and bosses need this, but you do, too. Valuing yourself enough to say, “I deserve a vacation,” does wonders for self-respect. And, that, my friend, is priceless.

9. Find out how the other half live.

Those of us who check blogs daily, tweet like it’s life support, and write blogs as part of our living begin to think everyone lives like this. News flash: Most of them don’t. They run quaint art galleries without Web sites, they serve coffee in small ceramic cups, they sell bait, and some even whittle. Meet your global neighbors.

10. Disconnect to reenergize.

It’s difficult. Believe me, I know. But disconnecting from email, texts, tweets, and check-ins creates this magical space to just be. Let it happen. Connect with what’s right in front of you. Be. There.

11. Follow fewer rules to really expand your mind.

Rules are all around us. Blog on Mondays. Laundry every Friday. Don’t be a minute late to pick-up at camp. All of these things are important, but on vacation you can toss most rules out the window. This type of magic allows you to return looking at the world with a wider lens. If you didn’t have rules, what could you accomplish? It’s exciting to test it out.

12. Find your smile.

I’m lucky because I love what I do. But I have bad days. I have busy days and weeks. I have frustrating relationships with technology. Just because I love it doesn’t mean I skip through every day with a song in my heart and a smile on my face. Vacation, if I follow the first 11 ideas, helps me find the smile that is in there all the time. I think I smile a lot anyway, but on vacation, I find my inner smiles in ways that support every other aspect of me.

Enjoy your vacation. Don’t worry about sending postcards—much less posting smartphone photos to Facebook. We’ll just catch up when you get back.

LOW-RISK DOESN’T MEAN NO RISK - from FEMA

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Bailey Chamberlain) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 16:28:00 +0000

-Whole Community Answers to Pacific NW Wildfire Threats-

Wildfire experts and weather specialists have predicted a low-risk, late-starting wildfire season for the Pacific Northwest this summer, but emergency managers caution against complacency. As tall grasses and foliage dry out—the likelihood of brush, range and timber fires increases, and according to FEMA Regional Administrator Ken Murphy, even a mild wildfire season—and there are never any guarantees—begs the question: What if it’s your woods that are burning?

“An informed, responsible and committed public can play a major role in safeguarding property and saving lives. Our firefighters are well-trained, well-resourced and totally dedicated—but they can’t do it alone,” said Murphy. “Planning for disasters means that we must plan for the Whole Community, including people of different ages and those with various access and functional needs.”

Murphy encourages all homeowners to exercise extreme caution with grills, campfires, trash fires and other heat sources, and to embrace the commonsense commitment to pre-disaster wildfire preparedness accepted in more traditionally recognized wildfire-prone areas. “Talk with your local fire department or forestry office,” said Murphy. “Stay abreast of local burn bans and changing weather conditions. Talk with your neighbors. After all, a community is only as safe as its least prepared member.”

Common sense wildfire preparedness measures include creating a Safety Zone or Defensible Perimeter:
• Establish firebreaks around the perimeter of structures, power poles and property.
• Cut back flammable weeds and brush, and remove branches within 15 feet of the ground.
• Mow regularly and rake leaves, limbs and twigs.
• Landscape with fire resistant plants.
• Keep roofs, chimneys and gutters clean.
• Install smoke detectors on every floor, and near sleeping areas.
• Stack firewood away from your home. Store combustible materials only in approved containers.
• Keep fire tools (shovel, rake, water bucket and ladders) handy.
• Clear overgrowth from house numbers and street signs
• Clear driveways and access roads so fire vehicles have room to maneuver.
• Plan and rehearse family evacuation plans.
• Don’t overlook adequate insurance coverage. Sit down with your insurance agent and make sure that coverage is still adequate and up to date for the hazards you face.

It is also smart to keep important personal documents quickly available should you need to evacuate. Consider collecting your driver’s license, passport and other identification, birth and marriage certificates, Social Security card, insurance policies, tax records, wills, deed or lease and stocks and bonds. Also know where your main turn-off switches and valves are for electricity, water and gas.
Evacuation kit contents should include:
• Flashlights.
• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries.
• First Aid Kit.
• Medicines, prescriptions and eyeglasses.
• Water.
• Change of clothes.
• Sleeping bags and pillows.
FEMA’s Resolve to be Ready in 2011 campaign promotes Whole Community involvement in disaster preparedness. For more information on protecting your family and your home from wildfires, go to: www.usfa.fema.gov, www.firewise.org, or www.fema.gov. For more information on the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, visit www.fema.gov, 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.