52 Weeks of Preparedness What’s in your gas tank?...52 Weeks of Preparedness – It Takes 3 or...

52 Weeks of Preparedness ‐ What’s in your gas tank?

Week 1

By Don Gardner

Clearwater County Office of Emergency Management

The Clearwater County Office of Emergency Management has a new year’s resolution for 2019. We’re

going to take on an ambitious project by reaching out to the community with 52 weeks of emergency

preparedness. Each week we will publish an article with examples and ideas for how you can be better

prepared for the unexpected.

We will cover a wide range of subjects such as fires, floods, power outages, evacuations, etc. We will

share stories to illustrate situations, bring in guest contributors on occasion, and then provide some

suggestions that you can implement.

We are going to keep it simple. You may already be doing some of the things suggested, while some

ideas will be new, and others may not even apply to you. We welcome everyone’s ideas and feedback.

You can reach me at my office 208‐476‐4064, and please and leave a message if I’m not there. Also

please reach out to me if you’d like to be a contributor, as well.

Okay, it’s time to kick off this 52‐week project. We have so much to cover this year. So let’s get started.

Here it is January, and winter is under way. As we all know, travel can be

unpredictable. There are plenty of stories of Highway 12 closing because of

rockslides or a washed out bridge, especially during the 96 floods. It’s also

common to be the only person on the road in some locations and at certain

times of the day and night. When traveling up Highway 11, or on Grangemont,

Cavendish, and Upper Fords Creek roads, sometimes you are the only car out

there. So imagine you’re delayed in your travels, and you realize you’re almost

out of gas. That’s not a good situation to be in. What do you do?

Well, the best thing to do is not run out of gas! A simple and effective

preparedness attitude is to always consider that when your gas tank is half full, it’s as good as empty,

and it’s time to fill up.

When you’re traveling home from work or on your way to Kamiah, you can never be sure what lies

before you. It could be the roads are closed due to an accident, and you need to run your engine to stay

warm. It could be a flat tire that you can’t change. Or it could be the Internet is down, or the power is

off, and the gas stations aren’t taking credit cards or aren’t able to pump gas. By keeping your gas tank

above the half mark you know you always have options, and that is the best position to be in.

This is especially important during the winter months because if you’re involved in a slide off, wreck, or

you just get stuck, you may need to stay in your car to keep warm. Another benefit of keeping a full

tank during the winter is the extra weight will help with winter traction.

Keeping your tank full is beneficial during other times of the year, as well. We could experience a large

disaster, and you might be asked to evacuate on a moment’s notice. Consider what happened during the

fast‐moving 2018 fires in California.

So the tip this week is always fill your car with fuel when you reach half a tank.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – It Takes 3 or more Week 2

By Don Gardner


Let’s talk about Flashlights this week. They sure can come in handy in a variety of situations. From helping you find your way back to your campsite, to allowing you to find a missing widget under the bed, to providing illumination when the lights go out, to warding off a would‐be attacker, there are few tools as handy and essential as the flashlight.

Why You Should Have a Flashlight?

Power Outages. All of a sudden the power goes out. It could be a bad winter storm or a down power line. Knocking out the power grid has happen in so many different ways and being surrounded by the dark can multiply any danger. Even non‐emergency blackouts can be risky, not to mention inconvenient, if you don’t have a flashlight handy.

Also, you have to think about what will happen if you experience a power outage away from home, such as a movie theater, a hotel, in an elevator, or big box store. Amidst all the chaos and panic, you’ll definitely want something reliable to light the way back to your vehicle.

Car Trouble. Let’s say that you’re driving at night when your car breaks down or you get a flat tire. Without a flashlight, you won’t have any way to check what’s wrong. It could be something easy but you’ll have no way of knowing since you don’t have a flashlight. It’s not fun changing a flat tire in the dark.

Emergency Signaling. It’s impossible to predict when you’ll be in a survival situation. For example, what if your boat breaks down while fishing on Dworshak? Or you’re deep in the wilderness and your car breaks down? Situations like these do happen. If you have a flashlight, you can use it to help rescue teams find you.

To Save the Battery on your Cell Phone. Seriously! If your cell phone battery is dead, it can be a real problem in a variety of circumstances. Instead of using precious battery life from your cell phone to provide you with light, a flashlight can be used instead. Then, when you need to use your phone, it’s available.

It is so easy to come up with mutable reasons for a flashlight.

So what do we need?

Flashlights have made great changes in the last 20 years. The big heavy flashlights that you remember from days past have been replaced by flashlights that last longer, are brighter, and are more compact thanks to the arrival of LED’s. You can go cheap or expensive. What you get will be what you feel comfortable with. Let’s look at the recommended 3 locations for flashlights and the different types for each.

1. Home. What you’ll find in most houses are general use flashlights. It’s not a serious light by any means. It’s probably lightweight, made of plastic, and gives off just enough light to get the job done. They’re cheap, and will cover your basic flashlight needs. Be sure to have a common storage location so you can find the flashlight in the dark. You should also consider a battery operated lantern. This is a great way to light up a room.

2. Car. These can be the heavy, generally aluminum flashlights. Think classic Maglite for this category. Because of their hefty weight, some people carry them for personal defense as well. They give off a lot of light and are a handy size at generally between 5‐14” long. They’re usually too big for a pocket, but still easily handheld. Your car is a great place to keep one.

3. Pocket. These flashlights are typically 3” or less in length. Their small size allows you to stick them in your pocket, stash them in various bags, or — and this is the easiest, most foolproof option — attach them to a keychain. With their low light, they are intended to be used as a backup or emergency flashlight, not your primary one. The plastic variety often run on coin cell batteries and are shorter than a key. There are also some slightly higher‐powered aluminum versions out there that will run on a single AA or AAA battery.

There is no reason to never have a flashlight nearby. Take good care of them, like check and change the batteries and they will last a long time. Most flashlight failures come from misplacing them. Be sure to keep and return them to the same place every time. So now is a great time to check on your current flashlights and be sure to have at least 3. Chances are you’ll find yourself using it much more than you ever anticipated and you’ll be better off for it

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Chim Chimney Week 3

By Don Gardner


♪ Chim Chim Cher‐ee ♪ Chimney fires are nothing to sing about. So what is a chimney fire? Chimney fires are fueled by excess creosote, or soot. Creosote is a product of incomplete combustion, it can take many forms; a sooty powder, a hard black glaze, a black tar‐like substance or the appearance of burnt marshmallows. Creosote will line the chimney's walls. Depending on the condition of your chimney the fire can spread to your home through cracks in the chimney's missing or loose mortar, it can also bend metal chimney liners and create cracks. A chimney fire is super‐heated; the fire can also spread to your house through radiant heat and it can easily spread to your rooftop ‐ or your neighbor's house! Most chimney fires happen for one simple reason: improper usage and care of wood‐burning appliances. (Faulty installation is another key reason, but it ranks a distant second to the first.)

Chimney fires don't have to happen. Here are some ways to avoid them:

Use seasoned woods only (dryness is more important than hard wood versus soft wood considerations)

Build smaller, hotter fires that bum more completely and produce less smoke Never burn cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, trash or Christmas trees; these can spark a

chimney fire Have the chimney inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. Be sure that the chimney and stovepipe were installed correctly in accordance with the

manufacturer's recommendations and local codes. Minimize creosote formation by using proper stove size and avoiding using low damper

settings for extended periods of time. Always operate your appliance within the manufacturer's recommended temperature

limits. Too low a temperature increases creosote buildup, and too high a temperature may eventually cause damage to the chimney and result in a fire.

Frequently look for signs of structural failure

What to Do if You Have a Chimney Fire?

Chimney fires can burn explosively ‐ noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or passersby. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Homeowners report being startled by a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a freight train or a low flying air plane. However, those are only the chimney fires you know about. Slow‐burning chimney fires don't get enough air or have enough fuel to be as dramatic or visible. But, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure ‐ and nearby combustible parts of the house ‐ as their more spectacular cousins

If you realize a chimney fire is occurring, follow these steps:

1. Get everyone out of the house, including yourself

2. Call the fire department (911)

If you can do so without risk to yourself, these additional steps may help save your home. Remember, however, that homes are replaceable, but lives are not:

3. Grab your fire extinguisher (you do have one, right?). Open the door to the fireplace or stove just enough so you can insert the extinguisher's nozzle. Shoot the contents of the entire canister inside and then shut the door. What you don't want to use is water. It could make things worse by causing more steam and gas to enter the chimney, which could crack or warp it.

4. Close the damper or the air inlet controls to the fireplace or stove. This will limit air supply

and reduce the fire's intensity.

Don't go inside your home until the fire department tells you it's safe to do so. When you do, don't be surprised if things don't look too good. A large chimney fire can dump a ton of smoke and soot inside.

"DO NOT LIGHT ANOTHER FIRE"!!!

Don’t start another fire in the stove or fireplace until you've had the chimney professionally inspected, cleaned and repaired!

Some more tips.

When removing ashes from your home make sure

The ashes have thoroughly cooled.

You are disposing them in a metal container.

You always store the ashes in a metal container away from your home and other combustibles. Don’t store the container in your home or on your wood deck.

A chimney is an important piece of home safety. Don’t take your chimney for granted. We strongly urge you to clean then check your chimney for any damage that may have occurred in the past heating season. If it is difficult to clean or examine have a local chimney repairman, chimney "sweep," or dealer exam it. If you have any damage repaired it NOW. This year let’s give it a little attention and prevent chimney fires.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Records Week 4

By Don Gardner


When disaster strikes, your immediate concern will be your safety and the safety of those you care about. Once the immediate danger passes, however, having your financial records, medical records and important contact information will be crucial to help you start the recovery process quickly. By taking the time now to collect and secure these critical records you will have peace of mind during the difficult days following a disaster

The first step is to take an inventory of your household documents, medical records and contacts. Think about the documents you would need to identify yourself and your household members, including children and pets, your relationships, or status. These may include;

HOUSEHOLD: Vital records (birth, marriage, divorce certificate, adoption, child custody papers) ‐ Passport, driver’s license, Social Security card, green card, military service identification ‐ Pet ownership papers, identification tags.

FINANCIAL AND LEGAL: Housing lease or rental agreement, mortgage, home equity line of credit, deed ‐ Vehicle loan documents, VIN, registration, title ‐ Financial obligations, utility bills, credit cards, student loans, alimony, child support, automatic payments, memberships ‐ Financial accounts checking, savings, debit cards, retirement, investment ‐ Insurance policies, homeowners, renters, auto, life, flood, appraisals, photos, and lists of valuable items ‐ Sources of income, pay stubs, government benefits, alimony, child support ‐ Federal/state income tax returns, property tax, ‐ Estate planning, will, trust, power of attorney.

MEDICAL: Health/dental insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, VA health benefits ‐ List of medications, immunizations, allergies, prescriptions, medical equipment and devices, pharmacy information ‐ Living will, medical power of attorney ‐ Caregiver agency contract or service agreement ‐ Disabilities documentation.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Employers/supervisors – Schools – Insurance agents – Doctors/specialists, dentists, pediatricians, veterinarians ‐ Pharmacy ‐ Houses of worship ‐ Social service providers ‐ Home repair services, utilities, plumber, roofer, carpenter, electrician.

I recommend you download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit at www.clearwatercounty.org You can find this document under the Emergency Management departments Emergency Preparedness link. This is a good document and checklist to help you. It will take some time to gather all the information but when done you will be better off for your hard work.

Once you have gathered your financial, legal, and contact information, it is essential to safeguard this information.

Consider storing paper copies of important documents at home in a fireproof and waterproof box or safe, in a bank safe deposit box, or with a trusted friend or relative. If you are using a safe deposit box, you may want to ask your bank who can and cannot access the safe deposit box if the lessee dies or is incapacitated.

Store electronic copies of important documents in a password‐protected format on a removable flash or external hard drive in your fireproof and waterproof box or safe.

Next week’s article we will dig deeper on how to secure your documents.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Keep them Safe Week 5

By Don Gardner


Now that you have collect your important documents (last week’s article) you will need to keep them safe. Part of preparing for a disaster includes disaster proofing your important documents.

When storing important documents, you should keep the information close at hand in case you need to access it and you want to keep your information safe from theft, fire, flood, or other emergencies.

When disaster proofing your documents there is no hard and fast rule about where to keep them. The goal is to have everything in at least two places in case one is destroyed or inaccessible. Where you store each item will depend partly on where you expect to need it and partly how hard it would be to replace.

Let’s look over different ways you can store your records.

Safe Deposit Boxes

Most banks or credit unions offer safe deposit boxes. When deciding what to store in your safe deposit box choose originals of the items that are difficult or impossible to replace. One thing that should not be stored in a safe deposit box is the original copy of your will because the box may be sealed upon your death. But do place a copy of your will and any instructions in the box.

Do consider that a safe deposit box can be inconvenient if you want to access it’s frequently or at times when the bank is closed. It also can be problematic if you keep things in the box that you might need immediately after a disaster because the bank may be inaccessible.

Fireproof Safes

They are affordable and come in a range of sizes. Which fire safe is right for you depends on a range of factors and funding. I like the File Folder Fire Safe. They are typically under $100 and are great for holding documents and are waterproof which is important.

Once your documents are nestled inside, they’ll be easily accessible for you and your loved ones, should something happen to you. This makes it the ideal location for documents you want to regularly update or might need easy access to. Such as passports, your will (original, if it’s not kept with an attorney), emergency medical instructions, power of attorney, funeral/burial instructions. You could include digital files stored on a USB flash drive, CD or DVD. Photographs, valuable objects you sometimes use or want to insure, (e.g., jewelry) and cash. This is also a good spot for copies of other original documents stored offsite.

Also consider using plastic sleeves to protect certain documents. The sleeves add an extra level of protection against the ravages of time. While a safe will, of course, protect your documents, it never hurts to take an extra step to keep files as pristine as possible.

The disadvantage of a safes is that it can be stolen and that it could be inaccessible if your home was destroyed or became off‐limits. One last word on fireproof safes. I personally have retrieved fire safes from many burnt homes and every time they did protect the items inside.

Copies outside of your area.

Using a trusted out of area friend or relative to keep copies of your important papers is a good way of avoiding having all your records affected by a regional disaster. Bear in mind however that you will not have immediate access to your documents. This also may be a good place to keep your second safe deposit box key along with a list of its contents the names and numbers of your attorney, executor and any other instructions you wish to provide.

Now for our more tech savvy folks. But I don’t recommend this for everyone.

USB flash drive also known as thumb drives. These portable hard drives offer a lot of storage space in a little package. Copy all of your important documents and computer files onto the flash drive and keep it with you. You should also buy a second one to keep in your safe deposit box or with a friend or relative. Be certain to get one that allows password protection in case you lose the flash drive.

Online digital cloud storage technology provides some tools for safeguarding your important documents. This method makes it easier to access your records when you need to, and is more convenient to update. It’s simple to scan and store your documents online. Use Internet Cloud tools like Google drive, dropbox or iCloud. You can even do it directly from your smartphone.

There are risk of storing your documents electronically. When Storing documents on a USB Flash drive, the Internet Cloud, or your cell phone you will need to consider the security implications of your documents in an electronic format. Ask yourself what is the worst thing that can happen if this documents gets into the wrong hands? For me, I am not a fan of this method but I wanted to share this in case you are a techie.

The images from the recent wildfires in California are heartbreaking—families fleeing their homes at a moment's notice then returning to find their homes reduced to ashes and their most precious possessions gone forever. Take some steps today to protect your documents and valuables.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Flood Preparation Month Week 6

By Don Gardner


It was 23 years ago this month that Clearwater County experienced the worst flooding disaster in its

known history. The 1996 floods caused extensive damage around the region. In Clearwater County

around a dozen homes and a church were destroyed. Upwards of 150 homes were damaged. Michigan

ave, the main road through Orofino was severely damaged. The city’s drinking water was contaminated.

Residents lived on trucked in bottled water for weeks. Highway 12 was severely damaged and you could

not drive to Lewiston.

It took well over $20 million to recover from this disaster and that was in 1996 dollars. There are still

areas today that weren’t sufficiently repaired and we can still see the scars from this flood. Travel down

Michigan ave just passed the Orofino Tabernacle Church and you will find Memorial Park. This is one

location where a church and homes were lost. (Picture)

1996 Orofino Creek where Memorial Park is now

Flooding is Clearwater County’s number one potential disaster followed closely by wildland fire. We’ve

experienced severe flooding events in 1948, 1964, 1996, 1997, 2008, 2011, 2017. This list is not

complete and does not include the smaller flooding events.

With this in mind we are dedicating February’s articles to flood preparedness. So for the purpose of

situational awareness, this week we will cover the common areas that flooding occurs.

The most common flooding in Clearwater County occurs next to its creeks and rivers. Perhaps the

highest potential occurs along Orofino creek. From Pierce to Orofino the potential for flooding along this

creek is high. We must also consider Whiskey creek that joins Orofino creek near Michigan and Harmony

Heights. In Orofino we also have Flume creek. In and around Weippe there’s Jim Fords creek and

Grasshopper creek. Out near Headquarters and Cardiff you have Reeds creek. In Elk River you have Elk

creek and in Pierce Orofino creek. Of course there is the Clearwater River and at the confluence of the

North Fork at Ahsahka. There are also many areas with smaller creeks that have flooded in the past like

in the Riverside area of Orofino.

Now would be a good time to look around your neighborhood to find out where it’s flooded in the past.

If you are new to an area ask your neighbors. You can contact Clearwater’s Emergency Management

office or the Clearwater County’s Floodplain manager Bobbi Kaufman or Orofino’s Floodplain manager

Todd Perry to gather your information. Also go online and research your address at

https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home . It’s a very good idea to understand the flood risks you may have.

Flooding may occur in many different ways and it is not only our creeks and rivers that we have need to

look at. It could be snow runoff into your backyard or a sudden thunderstorm where the water can’t

drain fast enough or when waterways are blocked. Be sure to look at all flooding possibilities around

your home and business. Your assignment is to come back next week with this information because……

February will be Clearwater County’s flood preparation month. We will talk about how to protect your

property and how to respond when flooding occurs so be sure to check back every week.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Before the Flood Week 7

By Don Gardner


Welcome back. I know you all did your homework to find out where flooding occurs near you, so let’s get straight into what we can do to better prepare ourselves for a potential flood.

This week we are going to focus on before a flood happens. If you find that you live in the floodplain or water typically gathers around your home there are some things that you can do to protect your home and business. These ideas are also good if you are building a new home.

Your goal now is to reduce the risk of damage to structures from flooding. This means elevating critical utilities, such as electrical panels, switches, sockets, wiring, appliances, water heater, heating systems. Make sure that basements are waterproofed and that your sump pump is working and then install a battery‐operated backup in case of power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement. Install check valves in plumbing to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home. In areas with repetitive flooding, consider elevating the entire structure.

Get to know your property and consider were water can enter your home. This can be very helpful if you have seen flooding and sandbagging near you in the past. Plant a green space that includes trees, plants, and grass that can absorb or slow down the rush of water in a heavy rain and snow runoff. Avoid paving over green space on your property. Consider raising and planting on low lying areas to create a water barrier around your home. Where sandbagging has occurred in the past would be a great place to focus this effort. Make sure your gutters, downspouts and ditches are clean and moving the water away from your home. Anchor any fuel tanks. An unanchored tank can be swept downstream and could damage your home and others. If it commonly floods in your area, consider acquiring sandbagging capabilities. Sandbags won’t always be available during actual flooding.

Talk to an insurance agent about buying flood insurance. Flood insurance is available for homeowners and renters from the National Flood Insurance Program and takes 30 days after the purchase before it becomes effective.

Gather and store your important documents in a safe way (past article). Know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains if needed. Build an emergency kit. See the Clearwater Family Readiness Plan online for ideas. (future article)

Plan how you will communicate with family members during disaster situations and practice this plan with each other. Remember that sending texts is often faster than making a phone call. Keep important numbers written down and in your wallet not just in your phone.

Know your local flood evacuation routes and identify several escape methods from your location if the roads are blocked. Determine an emergency meeting location for your family. Include plans to evacuate people with disabilities and how you will evacuate pets, and service animals?

Now is a good time to find out how to receive alerts and understand what they mean. Clearwater County has a reverse 911 call out system that you can sign up for at www.clearwatercounty.org. There is also the Emergency Alert System (EAS) that broadcast over television and radio. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides weather alerts through Weather Radios that you can purchase. Also monitoring the weather on NOAA’s website is a very good idea.

Here is what the different NOAA flood alerts mean.

Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning but may cause significant inconvenience.

Flood Watch means a flood is possible in your area. Flood Warning means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood

prone area move immediately to high ground.

We sure did cram a lot into this article. Some of these points will be covered in more detail in future articles so be sure to check back. Next week we’ll cover what to do during a flood.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – During a Flood Week 8

By Don Gardner


What to do during a flood. So far you’ve researched where it might flood and you have done preparations around your home and assembled your emergency kit. You now find that flooding is likely and it’s time to act. A flood can be scary, but try to stay calm. The most important thing is to keep your family safe. You will need to start gather information. Listen to the local radio station KLER (1300 AM & 95.1 FM). Clearwater County will have a hotline you can call. That number is 208‐476‐8971 but it’s only staffed during disasters and not utilized at any other time. Clearwater County has a Facebook page and that is a good place to watch for information. Make sure your NOAA weather radio is turned on. Check the NOAA weather conditions and alerts on the Internet. Many times you won’t need to evacuate but you will want to protect your home from rising waters. Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Remove debris, such as leaves, sticks and litter, from water draining structures (ditches, culverts) in your area to allow the water to flow freely. This is where the preparations you made before the flood become beneficial. Assemble your disaster supplies and be prepared to evacuate. Fill your car’s gas tank. Review your Family Disaster Plan and discuss this plan with your family. Decide where you will meet if separated. Designate a contact person who can be reached if family members get separated. Make sure every family member has the contact information. Now is also a good time to check on friends and neighbors. Consider a precautionary evacuation of your animals, especially any large or numerous animals. Waiting until the last minute could be fatal for them and dangerous for you. As the flooding progresses you should take more steps to protect your property. If you have stocked sandbagging supplies now is a good time to use them. It is the opinion of the county that property owners are responsible for doing what they can during a flood to protect their property. When the situation becomes critical the county has a primary responsibility to respond to and protect critical infrastructure and may not be able to help protect your home or business. Some assistance may be available such as providing you with sandbags. Clearwater County’s sandbag policy is to have available up to 20 bags during a disaster for homeowners and business but this may be limited because of the available stock on hand. Don’t wait until the last minute to contact the authorities if you’re having trouble protecting your home. If it appears that you will need to evacuate and you have time, move valuable items, computers, papers/documents and clothing to upper floors. Move hazardous materials (such as paint, oil, pesticides, and cleaning supplies) to higher locations. If you have only one floor, put items on upper shelves, tables or countertops. Bring in outdoor furniture or other items that might float away and become a potential hazard. If instructed to do so turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. If you must leave your home, do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a stick to test depth ahead of you. NEVER allow children to play around high water, storm drains, creeks, or rivers. When driving make sure your vehicle has enough fuel and follow recommended routes. DO NOT sightsee and avoid disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue or other emergency operations and put you at further risk. Watch for washed out roads, earth slides, and downed trees or power lines. Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to recognize flood dangers. Don't

take shortcuts. They could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area. Do not drive around a barricade. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. STOP! Turn Around Don’t Drown. You can lose control of your vehicle in only a few inches of water. Vehicles can be swept away by less than 2 feet of water. If you are caught in fast‐rising waters and your car stalls, leave it and move to higher ground. When evacuating, travel to your predetermined location or to a shelter and be sure to follow the routes specified by officials. Remember to take your emergency kit and documents with you and keep in contact with family and friends. Next week we will cover what to do after a flood.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – After it Floods Week 9

By Don Gardner


Now the floodwaters are receding but you should only return home after the authorities have instructed you to do so. Monitor the radio and County information to know the situation of when you can return. Listen for information on assistance that may be provided by the local, state, or federal government and also other organizations.

Driving is especially hazardous after a flood. Do not drive through standing waters or areas where the water has receded. The road can be fragile and susceptible to collapsing under the weight of your vehicle. Watch for washed out roads, earth slides, and downed trees or power lines. Roads may still be closed. Barricades will have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.

Do not allow your children to play in the flood waters or with any of the rocks, mud, or debris generated by the flooding. The water may be full of filth, including raw sewage from failed sewers or septic systems, which can cause serious illness or injury.

Listen to the water advisories from local authorities to find out if your water is safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing. If a boil order is issued follow the instructions that you were given. Any well that was surrounded with flood water for any length of time should be disinfected before it is used for drinking or cooking purposes. Contaminated water can enter the well through cracks in the casing and seals. Even if the water from the well is clear, it may be contaminated with bacteria that can cause illness. Have your well tested for purity before drinking.

If you’re one of the lucky ones and you find that your home is not damaged and just some yard work needs to be done, then now would be a good time to approach fixing your yard to be more flood resistant. We covered a lot of that information earlier. You still need to be cautious regardless of the condition of your property.

If your home was damaged in the flood you will need to be careful. There is no one simple answer on how to recover. So much will be based on the impact it had on your home or business. The Red Cross has a very good free book that you can download called “Repairing Your Flooded Home” You will find it at the Clearwater County website on the Emergency Management page.

Here are some key point to consider.

Avoid floodwaters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Also the mud left from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals too. Do not enter a building surrounded by flood waters. Be very careful when entering a building damaged by flood waters, as hidden damage is likely and can be extremely dangerous.

Keep the power off until an electrician has inspected the system for safety. Do not use flooded appliances, electrical outlets, switch boxes, or fuse‐breaker panels until they have been checked.

Take pictures or video of the damage and report the damage to your insurance provider.

Examine walls, floors, doors, windows, and ceilings for risk of collapsing. Remove and throw out drywall and insulation that was contaminated with flood water or sewage. Clean and disinfect everything that got wet during the flood. Clean with a bleach solution, 1 cup bleach to 5 gallons of water. Throw out items that cannot be washed such as mattresses, pillows, carpeting, carpet padding, and stuffed toys. When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food and bottled water that may have come into contact with flood water. Service damaged sewage systems as soon as possible, as these can cause serious health risks.

Mold is a serious concern. Dry all areas and items quickly and thoroughly to prevent mold growth. If you are cleaning up in a room where mold is present, wear a face mask and disposable gloves. To minimize mold growth, move items to a cool, dry area within 48 hours and set up fans.

Cleanup of this magnitude may require professional help. Don’t hesitate to seek outside support. If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, check references and be sure they are qualified to do the job. Be wary of people who drive through neighborhoods offering help in cleaning up or repairing your home.

Check on elderly and disabled neighbors to make sure they are well and any appropriate precautions have been taken. A flood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to look after yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair. Rest often and eat well.

Restore your home to good order as soon as possible to protect your health and prevent further damage to the house and its contents.

Now so far it looks like we won’t have any major flooding in 2019. Be sure to prepare for the future and keep a copy of these articles for when we do have a flooding event.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Smoke Detectors Week 10

By Don Gardner


This Sunday March 10, 2019 it will be time to move your clocks forward and most likely you will be

reminded also to change the battery in your smoke detector. For years this was a very useful message

but now does it really matter? Let’s dig into smoke detectors this week.

Smoke detectors are so critical and important. They can save your life. I have witnessed this during my

career and I have also seen the results of when they’re not working or missing and that is very tragic.

There really is no excuse for not having a working smoke detector. If you need help contact your local

fire department.

Now that I’m done preaching let’s talk about the different types of smoke detectors. There are 2 types

of smoke alarms, Ionization alarms use a small amount of radioactive material and Photoelectric alarms

use a light beam. Ions detect flaming fires faster, Photos detect smoldering fires faster.

IONIZATION VS. PHOTOELECTRIC. Ionization alarms are more sensitive to the tiny particles of

combustion that can’t be seen or smelled, those emitted by flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are more

sensitive to the large particles of combustion emitted by smoldering fires. What the studies have found

is that photoelectric detectors responded to smoldering fires 12 ‐ 18 minutes earlier than the Type A

Ionization detectors. If you are replacing or buying a new detector always get the Photoelectric alarm.

Bottom line….. any working detector is better than none. Maybe the best method is to have one of each

type. In fact the National Fire Protection Association recommends this. You can also buy a dual sensor

type which combine the two technologies.

Now that you have your smoke detectors where do you put them? The best location would be on every

level of the home including the basement and garage. They should be outside of every sleeping area and

in every bedroom. Now you don’t want to put them in bathrooms or in a kitchen unless you want a lot

of false alarms.

When mounting you should place them on the ceiling (at least 4” away from a wall) or on the wall

(between 4”‐12” down from the ceiling). You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

You should test your alarms monthly. Most people don’t, even though it’s incredibly easy: just push the

test button. Next clean your detector at least once a year. Vacuum out any dust or cobwebs that have

accumulated. If the alarm “chirps” it’s a warning that the battery is low, replace the battery right away.

In the event of a false alarm, never remove the battery or disconnect the power source. Simply fan the

smoke or steam away from the detector until the alarm stops.

Change your clock, change your batteries. Yep, every year, even if the old batteries still have some life in

them, and even if you have hardwired alarms, you will want to change the battery back‐up in case of a

power failure.

Sounds like overkill, right? How often do all those alarm batteries really need changing? Why not wait

until they actually die? Smoke alarms draw a very low amount of power — until they go off. Then, to be

loud, they need a good strong energy supply. If your home is on fire in the middle of the night, you want

those alarms to SCREAM at you. Working batteries that aren’t fresh might not have enough juice to get

the job done. Oh and don’t use rechargeable batteries.

Some newer smoke alarms have a sealed lithium power supply that lasts for the life of the alarm, 10

years. If your alarms have no visible battery compartment, this must be what you have. These alarms

are about twice as expensive but will probably pay for themselves in batteries.

When should I replace the alarm itself? You should replace all types of smoke alarms every 10 years. The

date it was manufactured should be on the back. Smoke alarms get less sensitive as they age, so if it’s 10

years old, replace it. When in doubt then it’s a good time to change them.

Now days you have a lot of choices. There are smoke alarms that you can record your voice on to wake

up your child and tell them what they should do. You have linked alarms so when one goes off they all

go off. You can also get ones that will work with your smart home.

Oh and one last thought. When should you check your smoke alarms and make sure your home and

family is protected? …NOW!

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Fire Drill Week 11

By Don Gardner


Last week we talked about smoke alarms. By now you’ve changed the batteries or installed some new

smoke alarms. If you haven’t I encourage you go back and read the article. It is critical that you have

working smoke alarms.

Now that you have working smoke alarms what do you do when they go off? Fire can spread very

rapidly throughout a home leaving you little time to escape safely once you hear the smoke alarm. This

week let’s make a fire escape plan. So grab a piece of paper and let’s go for walk through your house.

You will want to start by drawing your floorplan. The NFPA has a very good templet that you can

download. You will find it at the Clearwater County website on the Emergency Management page.

On this floor plan make sure every door and window is indicated. While you’re walking around you

should also make sure the windows open easily. This is most critical in the bedrooms. If you have an

elevated house or two‐story home where it would be difficult to exit through a window, be sure to mark

that on your floor plan.

Once your floor plan is drawn it would be a good idea to have a family meeting. Have a copy of your

floor plan available and talk about two exits from every room. Draw these exits on your plan. Example a

bedroom could have a window and the bedroom door that would lead to a door to get outside the

house with. As you discuss this plan talk about some of the hidden problems that may be in your way

like a dresser blocking a window or even a messy room. If you’re dealing with elevated windows for an

exit consider buying an escape ladders that can roll down and provide a way out. As you develop this

plan always be sure that someone is assigned to help infants, older adults, or family members with

disabilities. Next talk about a meeting place outside where everybody will gather. Make the location a

safe distance from the home. You could use a tree, the mailbox or a neighbor’s house. Something that

should be discussed is that in a real fire situation you should never go back into the house even to call

911. With this in mind your plan should include how you are going to notify 911 of the fire. Can you

make a call from your neighbor’s house? Did you happen to bring your cell phone with you? This gets

more complicated the further away you are from your neighbors and cell service. Definitely figure this

one out.

Okay you had your family meeting you discussed what to do in the event of a fire now let’s put this plan

to the test.

It’s always a good idea to practice because it helps us remember what to do when under stress and also

helps us find hidden problems that we didn’t think about before. You will want to hold a fire drill at least

twice a year. When you do your fire drill, everyone in the family should practice getting low and going

under the smoke to your exit. When testing an escape ladder follow the manufacturer's instructions

carefully. Practice setting up the ladder to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly.

Your first drill should be in the daylight and should not be a surprise to anyone. Once you find that

everybody can exit a room through both methods then it’s time to do a drill at night and maybe even

with no house lights on. If you have children it’s a good idea to tell them you are having a drill. There is

no need to frighten them with a surprise, just doing the drill is extremely beneficial.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Hazard Assessment Week 12

By Don Gardner


In order to plan for a disaster we need to know what they are. Let’s discusses the disasters that affect us

the most.

Every five years all the cities, first responders and county leadership get together to conduct a Hazard

Assessment for Clearwater County to determine the relative frequency of a hazard’s occurrence and the

potential impact that a hazard event will have on people, property, infrastructure, and the economy. A

scoring system is then used to categorize the relative magnitude each hazard may have on our

community. The last assessment was conducted in 2017.

The Hazards for Clearwater County in order:

1. Flood

2. Landslide

3. Wildland Fire

4. Severe Weather

5. Technological/Cyber

6. Extended Power Outages

7. Communications (Telephone/Internet)

8. Hazardous Material

9. Dam Failure

10. Avalanche 11. Geological Hazards

I’m going to break down each of these hazards with little more detail. 1 Flooding. We recently had an

article about flooding. It would be good to look back at that article. But flooding is the most common

occurring and expensive disaster here in Clearwater County. 2 Landslides. They typically happen around

the same time that we flood. Road closures, homes threatened, and utilities damaged. 3 Wildland Fires.

I’m sure most of us cannot forget the 2015 wildland fires. Just think if the wind was blowing in a

different direction and how that may have affected you. Wildland fires can happen so suddenly and

evacuation is typically needed. 4 Severe Weather. Example we do get high winds like in 2010 that did a

lot of damage, but also there’s lightning, hail of varying sizes and let’s not forget too much snow.

5 Technology and Cyber. Our world now revolves around our technology. Cyber attacks are more

common and can do a great deal of damage to your records and finances. 6 Extended Power Outages.

Power outages happen from time to time but during a disaster it can take many days to be restored.

What do you have that requires power? Medical equipment, freezers, entertainment?

7 Communications. In our rural area we have seen our communications accidentally cut many times.

This impacts our 911 service and the Internet. Business require the Internet and it is a major method in

which we communicate to our friends and family. 8 Hazardous Materials. This is not as common but the

potential is there. Sometimes along our highways hazard material is being transported and if there is an

accident near your home and the wind is blowing in the wrong direction you may need to take action.

9 Dam Failure. The likelihood of Dworshak dam failing is very low as it is a very robust secured facility.

But if it does happen it can be catastrophic so it is something we do need to discuss. 10 Avalanche. Not

very common and it depends on where you live. Sometimes a highway may be closed due to avalanche

danger. 11 Geological Hazards. Were fortunate that in this area we are not in a high risk earthquake

zone. They do happen from time to time but are typically small. Also in this category is volcanoes. Those

that were around when Mount Saint Helens blew know the impact and the cost to our area when all the

ash fell.

I know that this is a lot of information to digest. Now where you live could change the order of

importance to you. Example if you live near a creek, in the forest, or near the dam your priorities could

change. Now would be a good time to think about your area and what hazards would affect you the

most. What I would like you to do is pick your top four hazards for where you live. Think about what

impact this may have on you and your family and how you can prepare for them.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – First Aid Kit Week 13

By Don Gardner


It’s time we start talking about kits. Over the next few weeks we will be covering many different types of

kits but this week we will start with a first aid kit. A first aid kit is the very best first step to take when

assembling kits. A first aid kit should be with you wherever you go. These kits will vary in size and

contents based on where they are kept. Example a camping first‐aid kit may have different supplies than

your home first aid kit. Everyone should have access to a first aid kit, but always remember to call 9‐1‐1

whenever needed.

You can purchase a first aid kit but putting together your own can have several advantages. It can be less

expensive since you probably have a lot of the supplies already. But even if you purchase a first aid kit,

you’ll want to personalize it with items such as medications, emergency phone numbers or other items

specific to your family’s needs. Check the kit regularly. Check expiration dates and replace any used or

out‐of‐date contents.

I won’t have enough room in this article to list in detail what you should have in your first aid kit so we’ll

just cover some of the basics.

Make sure to have a first aid manual. Read the entire manual so you'll understand how to use the

contents of your kits. If your children are old enough to understand, review the manuals with them as

well. It’s even a good idea to read this manual once in a while to keep up on your first‐aid skills.

Next are bandages. You will want to keep a variety on hand. Depending on the size of your kit, consider

including adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, roller bandages, triangle bandages, and even liquid

bandages. Also have elastic bandage for sprains, sterile cotton balls and swabs and don’t forget first‐aid

tape to hold some of the bandages down. Add some safety pins to fasten splints and bandages. I find

that keeping a few bandages in a variety of places like a wallet or purse is also very beneficial.

When treating an injury it’s important that you keep both the wound and your hands clean. You should

include several antiseptic wipe packages and triple antibiotic ointment. Have some non‐latex gloves in

your kit. In larger kits it’s a good idea to have some distilled water to wash out wounds with.

Add over‐the counter drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, nasal decongestant, antihistamine tablets, and

cough medicine. Be sure to have burn ointment for minor burns and hydrocortisone ointment for rashes

and skin irritation. Consider a pain‐relieving spray for quick relief from minor injuries. Additionally

include any special medicines for members of your household.

Included some tools like a thermometer, tweezers to remove ticks, insect stingers, and small splinters,

scissors for cutting gauze, breathing barrier for giving CPR, pocket flashlight, space blanket, instant cold

compress, and even a mini magnify glass to help see splinters and small wounds.

Now that you have a kit you should know where to find it and how to use each item. Store your first‐aid

kit in places that are out of children's reach but easily accessible for adults. Check the kits regularly.

Replace missing items or medicines that may have expired.

I cannot emphasize enough this is not a complete list. This article is just to get you started. Do some

research and build your own personalized first‐aid kit that will fit your needs

In upcoming articles I will be talking about other type of kits and having a first‐aid kit in these other kits

would be beneficial.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Quarterly Review Week 14

By Don Gardner


It’s hard to believe but three months have passed since we started this project of 52 weeks of preparedness. So far you’ve seen 13 articles. What we’re going to do today is review the past quarter. We will look at the past 13 articles and touch on the high points to remind you of how to be better prepared. Any good awareness program should look back and see how we are doing that way we can make adjustments and keep moving forward. So let’s get started.

Week 1‐ What’s in your gas tank? Nobody wants to run out of gas especially in an emergency. Remember a simple and effective preparedness attitude is to always consider that when your gas tank is half‐full it’s as good as empty and it would be a great time to fill up the tank. If you can make this a habit you’ll be better off for it.

Week 2 ‐ It Takes 3 or more. Flashlights are so valuable. They are indispensable during power outages or when on the side of the road fixing a flat tire at night. They illuminate the world around you which provides some safety. A good standard is to have a minimum of three flashlights available to you. One in your home, another in your car, and the third in your pocket. Remember it’s not a great idea to use your cell phone as a flashlight, you may need that battery to make an emergency phone call.

Week 3 ‐ Chim Chimney. Yes chimney fires don’t need to happen. Using seasoned wood, using your fireplace properly, and having your chimney cleaned regularly is a very important. We also looked at what you should do if you have a chimney fire. This article is worth reading again it was published January 16, 2019. Please go read it.

Week 4 – Records. Here we discussed about having your important records such as financial, medical, and legal documents available to you after a disaster and how it can help the recovery process moved faster. We offered an Emergency Financial First‐Aid Kit that you can download from Clearwater County’s Emergency Management webpage.

Week 5 ‐ Keep them Safe. Now that you have collect your important documents you will need to keep them safe. Part of preparing for a disaster includes disaster proofing your important documents. This article looked at different methods of securing your documents. We looked at safe deposit boxes, fireproof safes, and digital methods. We also covered keeping copies of your documents in a second location typically with a friend or family member. This article is definitely worth another read.

Week 6 ‐ Flood Preparation Month. In February we kicked off our flood preparation month. We reviewed the flooding history in Clearwater County. We talked about how you could survey your home and local area to see if it commonly floods and provided a website that you could look up your actual address for flood risk.

Week 7 ‐ Before the Flood. We then covered your property and what you could do to help mitigate possible flooding. We encourage you to investigate if flood insurance would be good for you. You were assigned to investigate several evacuation routes if flooding occurred. Then we encourage you to make a communications plan for your family so you could always stay connected during a flooding emergency.

Week 8 ‐ During a Flood. We covered things to do if you needed to evacuate. We looked at things you could do around your home to protect it even more from floods.

Week 9 ‐ After it Floods. Finally we looked at steps you should take if your home was impacted by a flood. We looked at different safety issues and contamination problems. The month of February covered a lot and yes I recommend you go back and read these articles.

Week 10 ‐ Smoke Detectors. Having a smoke detector is so critical and there is no excuse that I can think of for not having one. We looked at the different types and recommended the Photoelectric alarm. It really is worth it to research the different types of alarms whether you have children or multiple alarms that you want to connect together.

Week 11 ‐ Fire Drill. Fire drills are not just for schools and businesses. You will more likely need to evacuate your home in the middle of the night and a fire drill at home can help you be better prepare for that. Remember plan as a family, draw a floorplan, and practice your fire drill.

Week 12 ‐ Hazard Assessment. This week was a situational awareness article. We looked at Clearwater County’s potential disasters and then listed them in order of potential and magnitude. We encouraged you to pick the ones that would impact you the most so you can start making plans to protect your family.

Week 13 ‐ First Aid Kit. Having a first‐aid kit seems like a no‐brainer but it’s amazing how many people don’t have access to one when they need it. It really is simple. You can go buy a First‐aid kit at a store and then personalize it so it fit your needs. Or you could go for the ultimate and build an everything kit so you’re ready for anything.

Well that covers the last quarter and we are looking forward the next article. Wonder what it will be about.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Grab & Go Bag Week 15

By Don Gardner


The subject this time is so complex that it will take more than one week to cover. What we’re going to start talking about is grab and go kits. The reason this is so complex is there is such a variety of ways that you can approach this. Survival kits can be small enough to fit in a pocket or something that you carry in a pickup truck. Also what you put in your kit depends on your personal needs. This article will cover some of the fundamentals of making a survival kit. I’m going to start by describing a grab and go bag.

So why do you need a grab and go bag? Just like a first‐aid kit you never know when you’re going to need something during an emergency. A grab and go bag can provide you with the foundation for basic survival and comfort.

So let’s start with the basics. You should consider these different components.

Fire and Light. One of the most important activities in any survival situation is the ability to start a fire. This can provide you with warmth, light, and comfort. It’s also a way of signaling for help. I recommend that you have two ways to start a fire. Windproof waterproof matches work very well. Be sure to keep them in a waterproof container. This will ensure they are available when you really need them. For the second method you can use a disposable lighter or a flint and steel. It’s also a good idea to have some dry tinder to help start your fire. I took a small watertight plastic tube and put in dryer lint and cotton balls.

When it comes to light a good LED flashlight is indispensable. You can also get a headlamp that is very handy when you need to use both your hands. One trick is to never have the batteries installed in your flashlights. Keep the batteries in a Ziploc bag until you need them, then they won’t corrode in your flashlight during long storage. Also I recommend some chemical light sticks. They can be a quick solution to start your lighting needs as you check out your situation and put the batteries back in your flashlight.

Signaling. You will want to be able to signal for help. Of course a fire can work but this is not always practical. Having a loud whistle is very beneficial and it’s easier to use than having to scream in hopes that somebody hears you. Don’t get a metal whistle they tend to freeze in cold weather. Next red or orange plastic ribbon helps when tied to a cars antenna or a tree.

Navigation. You will want to have a good map of the area. If you travel a lot in the backcountry or drive roads in the city, it’s always good to have an accurate map available. Now it’s also important to be able to read those maps. Take some time and learn how to understand a map. You will also want to have a small compass so you can navigate to safety.

Water and Food. I like to use a 1 liter water bottle. Next have some water purification tablets. What you can do is store the water purification tablets in the empty bottle and other small items from your kit. Also have a piece of cloth like a cutup T‐shirt. This helps filter out large particles from a stream before you treat the water with the purification tablets. You can also purchase some small 4 ounce water pouched that are ready to use right away.

Be sure to include a stainless steel camping style cup. You can easily boil water in this cup.

You will want to store enough food for three days. What type of food you store will depends on where you will be keeping this kit. You can get SOS Emergency Food Ration Bars that are good for this and they store well. You could also add some M.R.E.s. Just don’t add items that will spoil easily.

Shelter. Include a space blanket they have so many uses. A plastic poncho is useful and if you have room a warm survival blanket and a tube tent.

Medical. In a previous article (week 13) we discussed a first‐aid kit. This grab and go bag is a great place for a small version first‐aid kit. Always make sure to personalize your first aid kit and add any medication you may need.

Knives and Tools. A real good knife is important. Be sure to buy a quality knife that you like. Be cautious of the survival Rambo type knives there usually mass‐produced and poorly made. Add a quality multi tool. You’ll be surprised at how many things you can do with a good knife and tool.

Odds and Ends. Add some duct tape. It’s good for about anything and first‐aid too. A couple of large garbage bags. You could use these to make a poncho and to keep things dry. A compact sewing kit. Some safety pins. A fork, spoon and knife set. Some hand warmers. Roll of toilet paper. A deck of cards. You got to have something fun to do. A toothbrush some dental floss. A simple P‐38 can opener. Some parachute cord.

I recommend assembling your first grab and go bag in a medium‐size backpack. The kind that kids take to school. Now the items we have listed here is a great starting point. But this is not the end‐all and be‐all of what you may need.

Once you assemble your first kit I recommend you store it in your vehicle. This tends to be with you most the time and makes it readily available when you’re traveling.

Now we are just getting started. It will take more than one week to cover this subject and all the different types of kits. Over the next few weeks we will cover kits for pets, disabled and elderly. Kits for school and colleges kids.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Grab & Go Bag for Kids Week 16

By Don Gardner


It’s amazing how everything can change so fast and without warning. Looking at last week we saw

severe flooding and evacuations all around us. But for the most part Clearwater County had only minor

issues, this time. Being prepared is such a valuable step in taking care of yourself. So let’s continue to

build our grab and go bags.

Last week we covered the basic items that you may need in your bag. This week let’s look at a grab and

go bag for kids. How you build this kit will depend on the age of the child. But here are some basic ideas.

First the purpose of a grab and go bag is to provide the bare necessities for a certain amount of time,

typically 72‐hours but a good start for kids is to build a kit for 24 hours. This will help reduce the size and

weight of the kit. Go Bags for kids are mostly to provide them with comfort and provisions for a short

amount of time.

Emergency Contact Information and Identification: Print a list of emergency contacts that your children

could use. Next an identification card should be carried by each child in case they becomes separated

from you. Use a Ziploc bag to store the list, ID, and other items.

$5 in small bills and coins: Five dollars can help with incidentals if your kids are separated from you. It

can help them buy a drink or make a phone call. Place the money in the same bag as the emergency

contact info.

A family photo: If your kids need help finding you, they'll have a photograph to help with the process.

This should go in the plastic bag with the money and contact info.

An extra change of clothes: Pants, shirt, underwear, and socks. Don’t store "nice clothes".

Toiletries: Used a quart size bag to hold toothbrush, toothpaste, antibacterial wipes, kleenex, band aids,

and a small roll of toilet paper.

Flashlight and batteries: Be sure to pick the right size flashlight for the child’s hands. Also a couple of

glow sticks would be helpful.

Bottled water and granola bars: Minimum two of each. Again, this is not a72 hour supply. But, if you are

separated for a few hours, your kids will have something.

Emergency blanket: These are thin foil‐type blankets found in the camping section. They are lightweight

and fold into a small storage space.

Fun things to do: Books, games, puzzles, paper, pencils, crayons and maybe a favorite stuffed animal (let

your kids pick these out themselves!)

Things you could add: Extra shoes, more money, sweatshirt, dried fruit and other non‐perishable snacks

to expand the bag to a 72 hr. supply. Paper plates, plastic cups, utensils, and paper towels. Whistle to

signal for help. Battery‐powered or hand‐cranked radio with extra batteries.

Consider bright colors bags. They will be easy to find. Have each kid responsible for their own bag. This is

a great way to introduce them on how to be prepared. Store the bags near the front door. The point of

these bags is to have them ready at a moment's notice, so they need to be stored close to your path out

the door. Maybe inside a foyer closet or at the foot of the stairs to grab quickly. Plan to check your bags

at least once a year. Rotate out food items and be sure the clothes still fit.

Something that the parents will need to include in their personal kits are items that support the

children. Things like a well‐stocked diaper bag with formula diapers and medication for the children.

As we mentioned last week this is a very large complicated project. Don’t be afraid to improvise and

make it work for you.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Grab & Go Bag for Seniors and Persons with

Disabilities Week 17

By Don Gardner


Two weeks ago on 4‐10‐19 we had an article on the basic grab and go bag. This is the foundation of any

good grab and go bag and should be reviewed. Today we are going to focus on adding items that can

help seniors and persons with disabilities. As with any grab and go bag this is a personal choice that you

will need to make on what to add to support you during a disaster. We will be listing many ideas and

hopefully this helps you build the perfect bag.

The first step is to consider how an emergency might affect your individual needs. It’s possible that you

will not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It is crucial that you and your family think

about what kinds of resources you use on a daily basis and what you might do if those resources are

limited or not available. You should create a comprehensive grab and go bag with the many supplies

necessary to self‐sustain you for a period of time. It is up to you to decide the most essential items to

include for you and your family.

If you take medicine or use a medical treatment on a daily basis, be sure you have what you need in

your bag to make it on your own for at least three days. Include copies of all prescriptions, a list of the

prescription name, dosage, and frequency. Also include your doctor and pharmacist contact

information. You will want to ask your pharmacist about the best way to store your medications in your

bag and also talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what else you should do to prepare.

Include any medical alert tags or bracelets and written description of your disability‐related or health

care conditions.

Add paper and writing materials. If you have hearing issues / speech or communication issues have pre‐

printed copies of key phrase messages handy, such as “I use American Sign Language (ASL),” “I am hard

of hearing”, or any phrase that will help you communicate during stressful times.

For vision issues mark your disaster supplies with fluorescent tape, large print, or Braille. Have a high‐

powered flashlight with a wide beam and extra batteries. Add an extra pair of eyeglasses.

For breathing conditions and chemical sensitivities. Towels, masks, industrial respirators or other

supplies you can use to filter your air supply like N95‐rated particulate filter mask. These mask are also

good when there is too much smoke in the air.

For wheelchair or scooter users. A patch kit or can of “sealant” to repair flat tires and/or an extra supply

of inner tubes.

Include sturdy work gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects you may try to lift or touch by

mistake while walking or wheeling over glass and rubble.

Have extra batteries for oxygen, breathing devices, hearing aids, cochlear implants, and cell phones.

First‐aid kit. With supplies designed for you.

Be sure you have some cash in your kit in case you need to purchase supplies.

Battery‐powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for

both. You can get a radio that dose both broadcasts and weather.

Choose emergency food that you like, is ready‐to‐eat (does not need to be kept cold, prepared, or

cooked), meets your dietary requirements, and has a long shelf life. Remember a can opener.

Hygiene supplies including absorbent pads and urinal as needed. Denture care and personal grooming

items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, towel, washcloth, comb, brush.

Remember supplies for your service animal including food, identification tags, proof of up‐to‐date

vaccinations and veterinarian contact.

Tailor the contents of the grab and go bag to your needs and abilities. Be sure to read week 15’s article

before you start with this phase.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Pets Go Kits and Evacuation Plans Week 18

By Don Gardner


During disasters your pets will be even more dependent on you for their safety and well‐being then

before. Any plans you make for your family must include your pets too.

This article is primarily about dogs and cats. We will cover disaster planning for livestock and horses at a

later time. For more information on other pets like birds, reptiles, or small animals such as gerbils and

hamsters, please visit The Humane Society of the United States.

First let’s assemble an emergency go kit for your pet. The pet go kit should be kept in an easy accessible

place and items stored in sturdy containers so that they can be carried easily.

Your pet go kit should include:

Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that they can’t escape.

Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan. Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof

container. Include a manual can opener if you pet eats canned food. Store water specifically just for

your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your family. Add information on your pets

feeding schedule.

Have medication for your pet (if needed) and copies of medical records, vaccination documents, pet’s

registration, adoption papers, and name and number of your veterinarian stored in a waterproof

container. Include information on medical conditions and behavior problems.

A pet first aid kit. Most should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic

ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first‐

aid reference book.

Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost. Since many pets look alike, this will help to

eliminate mistaken identity and confusion. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex,

color and distinguishing characteristics. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit if easily

transportable. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

Now let’s create an emergency evacuation plan for your pet.

Even if your pets normally stay at home when you vacation, they will need to travel with you during an

evacuation. If it's not safe for you to stay behind then it's not safe to leave pets behind either.

Evacuations are stressful for everyone, but with careful planning and preparation, you can minimize

your fears and help your pet stay safe and calm. If you are evacuating with your pets consider leaving

early. It will take more time to get everything and everybody ready. Include your pets in evacuation drills

that you hold so your pets become used to entering and traveling in their carriers calmly.

Know a safe place to take your pets. Many hotels and shelters do not accept animal guests, other than

certified service animals. Know which hotels and motels along your evacuation route will accept your

pets in an emergency. Call ahead for reservations if you know you may need to evacuate. Ask if no pet

policies could be waived in an emergency. Know which friends, relatives, boarding facilities, animal

shelters or veterinarians who can care for your pets in an emergency. Prepare a list with phone

numbers. Find this information out before an emergency.

Most shelters and American Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety

concerns and other considerations. Certified service animals that assist people with disabilities are

allowed in Red Cross shelters.

Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are current and that all dogs and cats are wearing collars with

securely fastened, up‐to‐date identification. Many pet shelters require proof of current vaccinations to

reduce the spread of disease. Consider having your pet “microchipped” by your veterinarian.

Talk to your vet about medications your pet might need for travel, such as to reduce anxiety or travel

sickness symptoms. Test them on your pet in advance, to ensure that your pet doesn't suffer any

adverse side effects.

Make a back‐up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals yourself. Develop a buddy

system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or

evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation

plans and show them where you keep your pet’s emergency supply kit.

When evacuating with your pests

Have a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pets. The carrier should be

large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Dogs can be either in crate or carrier, or

restrained in a special harness that attaches to the seat belt. If you use a pet barrier in the back seat of

your car or the deck of your SUV, be sure it is sturdy and firmly attached so it does not collapse on your

pet. Never allow your pet to ride in the front passenger seat (especially one that is airbag equipped).

Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. They will be vulnerable to heat stroke or theft.

Helping Pets Recover After an Emergency

Your pet’s behavior may change dramatically after a disaster, becoming aggressive or defensive. Be

aware of their well‐being and protect them from hazards to ensure the safety of other people and

animals.

Watch your animals closely and keep them under your direct control as fences and gates may have been

damaged. Pets may become disoriented, particularly if the disaster has affected scent markers that

normally allow them to find their home. Be aware of hazards at nose and paw level, particularly debris,

spilled chemicals, fertilizers and other substances that might not seem to be dangerous to humans.

Consult your veterinarian if any behavior problems persist.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Spring fever Week 19

By Don Gardner


Growing your own food. Now what does gardening have to do with preparedness? Glad you asked.

Let’s look backwards because we do know that history will repeat itself. Food scarcity happens often

around the world and even here. Whether it’s the Great Depression, a drought, the loss of job, or other

events such as road closures and union strikes. Interruption in the food supply has happened,

sometimes for a few days or even worst years.

During the Depression and World War II there was a Victory Garden movement. It encouraged home

gardening and food production to support families and to enhance our national security. Did you know

that in 1944, 20 million home gardeners grew 40% of the nation's fresh vegetables. Even though gardens

tend to be seasonal their benefits can be felt year round and are a great support during bad times.

What are the benefits of growing some of your own food? A garden will help save on your grocery bill.

Provides you with natural and nutritious food. Makes available produce that you could put up in your

food storage. (In an upcoming article we will discuss food storage) Strengthens children’s connection to

the food they eat. Gardening has been known to reduce stress and it teaches self‐sufficiency and that’s a

wonderful benefit.

A vegetable garden can be planted in a backyard, in a single pot on your patio or on a larger scale

depending upon the space and time you have available. Gardening is easy once you get the hang of it.

The first step to planning a successful garden is to decide which vegetables to grow. This may sound

fairly straightforward, but there are a lot of factors involved, and you need to answer some basic

questions. What vegetables do you and your family like and what grows good in your area? If you

haven’t gardened before, start small with just a few things you like. A good booklet on vegetable

gardening in Idaho is ready for you to download from Clearwater County’s Emergency Management web

page.

Some easy food to grow even in pots:

*beets, *carrots, *cabbage, *cherry tomatoes, *cucumbers, *eggplant, *green beans, *herbs, *lettuce,

*onion, *peppers, *spinach, *strawberries, *tomatoes, and yes zucchini. You know we are just

scratching the surface of what you can grow in this area.

There are as many gardening methods as there are gardeners. We are very lucky in this area because we

have some resources to help us with gardening. First many of our stores will carry plants this time of

year. Next we have an awesome nursery Green Things on Hwy 12. Did you know that every Wednesday

they are on the radio – KLER 1300 am – at around 12:15 to give you tips on how to take care of your

plants. We also have the University of Idaho Extension in Clearwater County at 2200 Michigan Avenue,

Orofino 208‐476‐4434. They have a lot of material to share. The booklet came from them. There is even

a garden club.

Clearwater County is a great place to have a garden. Even if you just start with a single pot on your deck

you will be on the road to self‐sufficiency.

This article can’t teach you how to grow food but we hope it motivated you. Let spring fever hit and

plant something.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Wildfire a Call to Action Week 20

By Don Gardner


Over the next few weeks we are going to talk about wildfire and what to do Before, During, and After.

To get this subject started let’s look at where we live and what our local fire history is. All residents of

Clearwater County live in what is known as the Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI). The WUI is not a place,

per se, but a set of conditions that exist. In our area we live in the proximity of fire‐prone vegetation, fire

prone weather patterns and steep topography. Because of this we are at risk of catastrophic wildfires.

We live in such a beautiful place, but it come with a price and that’s living within a WUI.

Every year there is a wildfire in our area. It’s not hard to remember August 2015 and the fast moving

wind driven fire that occurred in Orofino. The first home was lost in 7 ½ minutes. Did you know that in

Clearwater County firefighters have fought wildland fires in all 12 months of the year? Wildfires can

happen anywhere and anytime. The risk of a wildfire increases with periods of warm days, little rain, and

high winds.

Taking the necessary steps to prepare for a wildfire can drastically increase the chances for survival of

both life and property.

Let’s start with protecting your home with a defensible space.

The term “Defensible Space” refers to that area between a house and an oncoming wildfire where the

vegetation has been modified to reduce the wildfire threat and allow fire fighters to safely operate.

Typically, creating a defensible space involves thinning of flammable native trees and shrubs, removal of

dead vegetation, and then planting more fire resistant plant materials around the house. The defensible

space concept conveys several important ideas including homeowner responsibility, being proactive,

vegetation management, house survivability, and firefighter safety. You can have both a beautiful

landscape and a defensible fire‐safe zone around your home.

Let’s give your house a fighting chance during a potential wildfire by establishing your defensible space.

Very Near Your Home: Create a “Noncombustible Area” at least 3 feet wide around the base of your

home. This area needs to have a very low potential for ignition. Avoid anything flammable ‐ this includes

plantings, but also mulch, woodpiles, furniture, decorative items, and stored items. Use irrigated

herbaceous plants (such as lawn, ground cover, and flowers), rock mulches, or hard surfaces (such as

concrete, brick, and pavers) in this area. Keep it free of woodpiles, wood mulches, dead plants, dried

leaves and needles, flammable shrubs (such as juniper), and debris.

Zone 1: 3‐30 feet from the structure should be “Lean, Clean, and Green.” “Lean” indicates that there

are no woodpiles in this zone, but it can include a small amount of flammable vegetation such as mowed

grass, flowers, and vegetables. “Clean” means there is no accumulation of dead vegetation or flammable

debris within the area. “Green” requires that plants within this area are kept healthy, green, and

irrigated during fire season. Ask your local nursery about landscaping with beautiful, fire‐resistant

plants.

Zone 2: 31‐100+ feet out to the property line. Shrubs and trees should be well spaced and pruned to

eliminate fuel ladders, where fire can climb from a ground fire to an ember‐producing crown fire. Large

trees do not have to be cut and removed, but plants growing beneath them that are greater than 4

inches in height should be removed. Remove lower limbs of trees to at least 6 feet, up to 15 feet (or the

lower 1 /3 of branches on smaller trees). Creating open space between plants will improves the chance

of stopping a wildfire. Keep in mind you will need an even greater defense zone widths when your home

is on a steep slope or in a windswept area.

Check out the display on this page (Cut it out and save it!) This has some good visuals and a basic list of

actions you can take to protect your property.

Next week, we will discuss what you can do specifically for your house to be better prepared for a

wildfire.

Being Ready for Ways You Can Reduce the Risk

Check and clean your roof and gu ers during the spring, summer and fall to remove dead leaves and pine needles that can easily ignite from a spark.

Keep trees adjacent to buildings free of dead or dying branches, and trim overhanging tree limbs away from your house.

Prune all lower tree branches eight feet from the ground and remove ladder fuels from underneath

Keep all trees and shrubs trimmed away from electrical lines. (Do not trim around live power lines, call a professional.)

Keep woodpiles at least 30 feet from your home.

Clean under decks; don’t store flammable items under them, and screen in the area.

Be sure your house numbers show clearly from the street, both day and night.

Store combus ble or flammable materials in approved containers.

Clean chimneys, and check and maintain spark arresters.

For fire truck access, remove vegeta on within 10 feet of each side of your driveway.

Cover exterior a c vents with metal wire mesh no larger than 1/8 inch to prevent sparks from entering the home.

Enclose under‐eave and soffit vents or screens with metal mesh 1/8 inch to prevent ember entry.

Inspect shingles or roof les; replace or repair those that are loose or missing to prevent ember penetra on.

Use approved fire resistant materials when building, renova ng or retrofi ng structures.

Keep a safety zone of up to 100 feet around your home.

2015 Wildfires

Keep Your Property Lean, Clean, and Green.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Wildfire, Protect Your House Week 21

By Don Gardner


Fire is, and always has been a natural part of the beautiful area where we’ve chosen to live. With

advance planning and preparation, you can dramatically increase your safety and the survivability of

your property. Remember the most important person protecting your life and property is you.

Last week we talked about your yard. This week let’s talk about your house.

Hardening your home

First we need to talk about embers. During a wildfire, thousands of burning embers, or firebrands, can

be carried by the wind and come raining down on your home and property. When embers land on, or

become lodged in, easily ignited materials on or near your house, they ignite those materials. The fact is

that most home fires during a wildfire start from embers that are thrown some distances from the

flames. Even homes located many blocks, and up to a mile away, from the main fire are vulnerable to

ignition and destruction. It has been found that more than three‐quarters of all the homes burned

during a wildfire were started from embers.

With a large fire in the vicinity, you will not be able to prevent burning embers from landing on your

home and landscape. If the wind blows toward your property from the direction of the main fire, you

will get embers. Whether they will become a large fire that will seriously threaten your home depends

on what you have done to manage your home and fuels on your property.

Construction materials and the quality of the defensible space surrounding your structure are what

affect the chance of survival in a wildland fire. Embers from a wildland fire will find the weak spot in

your home’s fire protection scheme. Below are some measures you can take to safeguard your home.

ROOFS: Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home because it can easily catch fire from wind‐

blown embers. Homes with wood‐shake or wood shingle roofs are at a high risk of being destroyed.

Build your roof or re‐roof with Class A fire‐rated materials such as composition shingles, metal, or tile.

Block any spaces between roof decking and covering to prevent ember intrusion. Your gutters collect a

lot of flammable materials. Regularly clean out pine needles, leaves, and other debris from your gutters

and roof. Ask yourself: If an ember landed in your rain gutters would there be “fuel” for it to ignite?

Cut any tree branches within 10 feet of your roof, ensuring that they are neither touching nor hanging

over your home. This not only helps to keep fire away but also reduces the amount of pine needles and

leaves on your roof and gutter.

BALCONIES and DECKS: Embers can collect in or on combustible deck surfaces, in small gaps, or beneath

decks and balconies, igniting the any flammable material and catching your home on fire.

Construct your balconies or decks with heavy timber or noncombustible construction material. Do not

store combustible items beneath them. It would be best to enclose the underside of balconies and decks

with fire‐resistant materials (such as 1/8 inch wire mesh) to prevent embers from blowing underneath.

If there is a fire threat nearby, bring any combustible items into your home, such as yard furniture,

baskets, flower arrangements, and other flammable material. Combustible materials should not be

stored under your deck. Keep your deck clear on top and below during a wildfire.

EAVES: Embers can gather under open eaves and ignite combustible material. Enclose your eaves to

prevent ember intrusion, and regularly clear away debris that collects here.

VENTS: Embers can enter the attic or other concealed spaces and ignite combustible materials. Vents in

eaves and cornices are particularly vulnerable, as are any unscreened vents. All vent openings should be

covered with 1/8‐inch or smaller, corrosion resistant metal mesh. Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh

because those materials can melt and burn.

If enough embers are able to enter the building through a vent or open window, they can ignite

materials inside the building, resulting in a building burning from the inside out.

WINDOWS & DOORS: Heat from a wildfire can cause windows to break. Broken windows allow burning

embers to enter and start fires inside the home. Single‐paned and large windows are particularly

vulnerable. Install dual‐paned windows with the exterior pane of tempered glass to reduce the chance

of breakage during a fire. Windows also allow radiant heat to pass into the home to ignite combustible

materials such as curtains, upholstery, and flammable items on a window sill.

Embers can enter gaps in doors, including garage doors. Install weather proofing around your doors and

garage door. If your garage is attached to your home, make sure the interior door is solid and on self‐

closing hinges

WALLS & FENCING: Wood, vinyl, and other plastic siding and trim are combustible. Also overlapping

wall materials provide surfaces and crevices for embers to nestle in and ignite. Consider building or

remodeling your outside walls with ignition‐resistant or noncombustible building materials such as brick,

cement, masonry, or stucco.

Combustible fencing can become engulfed, and if attached to the home it can carry the fire right to the

house. Use noncombustible fencing within 5 feet of your home or remodel the whole fence with

noncombustible or ignition‐resistant materials. Remember to regularly clear away debris from the base

and crevices of the fence.

DRIVEWAYS & ACCESS ROADS: Driveways should be designed to allow fire and other emergency

vehicles and equipment to reach your home. Ensure that all gates open inward and are wide enough to

accommodate emergency equipment. Locked gates should be equipped with a Knox Box or similar entry

system that can be accessed by emergency responders quickly and safely

Access roads should have a minimum 10‐foot clearance on either side of the traveled section of the

roadway and should allow for two‐way traffic. Trim trees and shrubs that overhanging the road to allow

emergency vehicles to pass.

ADDRESS: Post your address with 4” reflective numbers that can be seen from the road in both

directions and in all weather conditions.

SUPPLIES: Have a fire extinguisher and tools such as a shovel, rake, bucket, and hoe available for fire

emergencies. Have multiple garden hoses that are long enough to reach any area of your yard and

home. If you have a pool, pond, well, or irrigation ditch, consider a pump.

To harden your home even further, consider a residential indoor/outdoor fire sprinkler system. In

addition to extinguishing a fire started by an ember, a sprinkler system can also help protect you and

your family year‐round from any home fire.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – During a Wildfire Week 22

By Don Gardner


It is a reality. Wildfires are a way of life in Clearwater County. Being responsible for your property and

your family is critical, and protecting your loved ones and yourself during a wildfire is essential.

This week we are going to cover what you do when a wildfire is near your home and before you’re

required to evacuate. Next week we will cover the evacuation process.

Hopefully, you’ve taken some of the steps recommended in the last two articles to prepare your

property for wildfire. If you have, then these next steps will be much easier.

DURING A WILDFIRE.

First, begin by monitoring conditions and following the advice of local authorities. Listen to the local

radio stations like KLER; monitor local news; and check social media for official posts. If ordered to

evacuate, do so immediately. Don’t wait for an evacuation order if you feel threatened by the

wildfire.

IF EVACUATION HAS NOT BEEN ORDERED.

In case you may need to evacuate, arrange temporary housing at a friend’s or relative’s home outside

the threatened area. Phone/tell your family and friends you may need to evacuate, and let them know

where you might be going. Be sure to have maps ready of the routes to get there. Now is a good time to

review your evacuation plan for your family and pets. Part of that plan should designate a place for

family members to meet outside your neighborhood in case they cannot get home.

Remind family members of your out‐of‐area contact. Family members can call the out‐of‐area contact

and use them as a message center.

Have your “go bag” ready and stocked. Make sure your phone numbers, insurance information, and

other important documents are current. If you have special physical or medical needs, be sure to have

an ample supply of medication and supplies to take with you. Next, ensure your go bag and supplies are

in your vehicle and your car has a full tank of gas.

If you have livestock, you will want to start following the plan you made for their safety. If this includes

evacuation you should consider doing that now.

Let’s do a property check.

Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your roof and gutters. Clear dead plants, weeds,

grass, or any other combustible materials within five feet of your home. Check on and under your deck,

along wood fences, and remove anything that can catch on fire. If you have a combustible fence that

attaches to your home, secure the gate in an open position. Remove weeds and other debris from the

area around your propane tanks and other fuel storage. Move propane tanks used with barbecue grills

away from the home.

Remove combustible items surrounding your house such as toys, patio furniture, and door mats. Move

them into your home or garage. Seal attic vents, ground vents, and dryer vents with pre‐cut plywood or

commercial seals. It’s a good idea to make these covers long before any wildfires occur. Prop up a ladder

against the house, and connect garden hoses outside so they can be use by firefighters.

Take steps to prepare your home inside.

Close all doors and windows, but do not lock them. Open or take down flammable drapes and curtains.

Close all venetian blinds and non‐flammable window coverings. Move upholstered furniture away from

windows and sliding glass doors.

Be ready to turn off air conditioning/air circulation systems and any propane or heating fuel if an

evacuation is ordered.

Be sure to take care of yourself and family during this time. Remain close to your house, drink plenty of

water, and try to limit your exposure to smoke. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory

system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. N95 masks will help.

Check on your neighbors. Talk about wildfire safety, and see if they need any help.

I know there will be a lot to do, but understanding the process will help you to be even more prepared.

Next week we will cover how to evacuate.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Evacuation …Are you ready to go? Week 23

By Don Gardner


Last week we talked about the things you can do before an evacuation. This week is all about how to

evacuate. Sometimes you will have little to no warning and will need to just leave. Please follow the

advice of authorities. Evacuation will be very stressful, so understanding what you should be doing will

help you to be better prepared.

When you are given an evacuation order, understand that it is for the protection of human life. Follow

the directions given to you. The best action to protect yourself and your family is to evacuate early to

avoid being trapped.

Okay time to go.

If You Are Told to Evacuate, Do So Immediately!

If You Are Given Notice of Potential Evacuation, Begin Preparing Immediately

Take your emergency Go Kit containing your family’s and pet’s necessary items.

Leave exterior and interior lights on, so firefighters can see your house under smoky conditions.

If there is time ‐ Close all windows, vents, and doors, leaving them unlocked. Remove light‐weight

curtains. Turn off air conditioning/air circulation systems. Turn off propane tanks and heating oil tanks.

Alert your family and friends of your route and destination. Post a note at your home that tells when

you left and where you are going.

Leave your home and head to the predetermined location. Your destination should be to a low‐risk area,

such as a relative’s house, a Red Cross shelter, or evacuation center, motel, etc.

Have several routes planned in case one is blocked by the fire or by emergency vehicles and equipment.

Choose an escape route away from the fire.

Drive with your lights on and be sure to turn on the radio to get the latest emergency information.

Follow any additional guidance provided by the local authorities.

Evacuate as soon as you are set!

Leave as soon as evacuation is recommended by officials. This will help you avoid being caught in fire,

smoke, or road congestion. You don’t have to wait to be ordered by authorities to leave. Evacuating

early helps firefighters and keeps the roads clear of congestion. In an intense wildfire, officials may not

have time to knock on every door. If you are advised to leave, don’t hesitate!

Your family may not be together when a wildfire occurs. Make plans today for how to stay in touch

during an evacuation.

Do not attempt to re‐enter the area until officials have declared it safe. In Clearwater County we have an

emergency hotline available at 1‐208‐476‐8971 (only answered during emergencies). You can call this

number to hear the status of the fire and when you can return home. Add this number to your

emergency phone list.

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED SURVIVAL TIPS. What to do if you become trapped and cannot evacuate.

While at your home: *Stay inside your house. *Stay calm, and keep your family together. *Call 911 and

inform authorities of your location. *Fill sinks and tubs with cold water for an emergency water supply

and stay hydrated. *Keep doors and windows closed, but unlocked. *Stay away from outside walls and

windows. *Place wet towels under doors to help keep smoke and embers out. *Patrol inside your home

for spot fires and extinguish them. *Ensure you can exit the home if it catches fire (remember if it’s hot

inside the house, it is four to five times hotter outside).

After the fire has passed, and if it is safe to do so, patrol your property and extinguish small fires. Check

your roof and extinguish any fires, sparks, or embers. Check inside the attic for hidden embers.

While traveling: If you are in a vehicle, you could stay in the vehicle or take cover outside. Base your

decision on your specific circumstances, including your distance from the fire, the direction of the fire,

whether there is fuel (e.g., brush and trees) near your vehicle, and the potential for rescue. Try to stay

away from fuel sources; stay in a rocky area or roadway, or near a water source. Stay low to reduce the

effects of heat and smoke Breathe through some cloth to avoid inhaling smoke, and cover yourself with

a wool blanket or coat, or even dirt. If you are trapped by the fire, immediately call 911, if possible, to

provide your location and explain your situation.

While in your vehicle: *Stay calm. *Park your vehicle in an area clear of vegetation. *Close all vehicle

windows and vents. *Cover yourself with a wool or cotton blanket or jacket. *Lie on the vehicle floor.

*Use your cell phone to advise officials—Call 911.

While on foot: Stay calm. *Go to an area clear of vegetation, a ditch or depression on level ground if

possible. *Lie face down and cover up your body. *Use your cell phone to advise officials—Call 911.

Wow! Now that was a lot to digest. Next week we will cover what to do after the wildfire.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – After a Wildfire Week 24

By Don Gardner


The fire is contained, and you checked with the county and have found out you may return home. Please

remember: Do not attempt to re‐enter the area until officials have declared it safe! You can call the

Clearwater County emergency hotline at 1‐208‐476‐8971 (only answered during emergencies). Here you

can learn the status of the fire and when it is safe to return home. Add this number to your emergency

phone list.

As you travel home, one common danger could be downed or damaged power poles with potentially

energized power lines lying on the ground or hanging from a pole. Always treat downed powerlines as if

they are live.

Another common hazard after a wildfire is unstable trees, known as "snags" or "hazard trees," which

can fall and injure people. Always contact a professional to evaluate a tree's stability and safely remove

any suspected hazardous trees from your property and along roadways.

It would be a good idea to wear some personal protective equipment, including long‐sleeved shirts and

pants, hard hats, safety glasses, leather gloves, and steel‐toe boots. This will help to reduce the

possibility of injury. Use caution when entering burned areas as hazards may still exist.

If your home is damaged

Be very careful before you go into your home. Ask the advice of the fire department and local building

officials on what to look for. Contact your insurance company right away — before you start to clean up

or make repairs. Before beginning any cleanup effort, document the damages with photographs.

Do an inspection of your property and home. If any smoke is showing, and it’s safe to do so, try to

extinguish a smoldering areas. If it’s beyond your ability, notify emergency personnel. Conduct a

thorough inspection, and identify and eliminate hazards before conducting any work.

Cleanup will take time and patience. You will find things that the fire did not burn up are ruined by

smoke and are soggy with water. Anything that you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully

cleaned.

Ash from wildland fires can be deposited on indoor and outdoor surfaces. This ash can be irritating to

the skin, nose, and throat, and may cause coughing. Do not allow children or animals to play in the ash.

Avoid spreading the ash in the air, wet down the ash before attempting removal; and do not use leaf

blowers or shop vacuums. Watch for ash pits (holes in the ground filled with ash) in your yard, and mark

them for safety. Try to always wear a dust mask.

Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke, or soot and DO NOT use water that you think

may be contaminated.

In some cases, it may be more appropriate for professional cleanup and disaster restoration companies

to do the cleanup.

Some may return home and find no real damage to the house except maybe some smoke damage. It

would always be appropriate to ask your insurance provider if a claim is warranted.

Before moving back into your home ensure that the water supply has been inspected and officially

declared safe for use, that every room that was affected by the fire has been cleaned, disinfected, and

dried, that all affected dishes, utensils, and glasses have been thoroughly washed, and that adequate

toilet facilities are available.

Do not use appliances, electrical outlets, switch boxes or fuse‐breaker panels until they have been

checked by a qualified electrician. Contact the appropriate utility or service company to have your

services restored (i.e., electricity, propane, cable, phone, etc.).

When a large wildfire affects an entire community, there are usually public meetings to provide current

information on services and programs available. Organizations that might be able to help include the

American Red Cross, Salvation Army, religious organizations, public agencies, community groups, and

other Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs). If you do not have insurance, your family and

community might help you get back on your feet.

Take care of yourself and family.

Get plenty of rest, and ask for help. Do not try to do it all alone. You may experience emotional stress

and mental and physical fatigue from cleanup and from loss of personal property and valuables. Fatigue

and stress may increase the possibility of injury and illness.

Set priorities for your cleanup tasks, and pace the work over days or weeks. Rest and take frequent breaks. Begin a normal sleeping and eating schedule as quickly as possible. Take advantage of disaster relief programs and services in the community. Understand your physical and mental limitations.

Children and teens. After a wildfire, young people may worry that another wildfire will happen again. Some children may become withdrawn, while others may become agitated and irritable and display outbursts of anger. Talk with young people at a level in line with their age. Let them know how you see the family situation improving. For example, tell them about your plans for their school, your work, and family housing. Communicate a positive "I'm not helpless" attitude. Maintain previously established routines as much as possible. Provide a listening ear for children; encourage the expression of feelings through music, art, journaling, and talking. Answer questions openly and honestly, remaining mindful of the age of the child. Situations may develop when young people need additional help dealing with emotional after effects of the disaster. Young people may benefit from seeing a health care professional if the emotional stress associated with the disaster does not get better in a few weeks. Help your pets. If you have pets be sure to find and comfort them. Scared animals often react by biting

or scratching. Handle them carefully, calmly, and gently. Try to leave pets with a family member, friend,

or veterinarian when you are visiting or cleaning your damaged home. Keep your pets out of the house

until the cleanup is complete. Watch animals closely, and keep them under your direct control. Hidden

embers and hot spots could burn your pets’ paws or hooves.

Final thought. We covered a lot of information about wildfires over the past few week. It would be a

good idea to review the articles and research additional information.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Hot Summer Days Week 25

By Don Gardner


Summer is an exciting time of year. With the kids out of school your family has the opportunity to enjoy

an abundance of warm weather activities. Your plans may include, a vacation, camping, swimming,

picnics, barbecues, and other fun summertime events.

Summer can also bring extreme heat, increased risk of dehydration, sunburns, and other health risks.

Recognizing these risks and taking preventive steps will allow you to enjoy your summer.

On hot days, your body struggles to stay cool. Summertime activity, whether on the playing feld or the

construction site, must be balanced with actions that help the body to cool itself and prevent heat‐

related illness. Regulating body temperature is especially hard for young children and the elderly.

NEVER leave a child, the disabled, senior adults, or any animals alone inside a parked car for any amount

of time, even if the windows are cracked opened.

Knowing the signs of heat‐related illness and ways to respond to it will help you to be better prepared.

Heat Cramps consist of muscle cramps and spasms that occur during or after intense actives and

sweating in high heat.

Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs.

Actions: Stop your activity immediately. Get to a cooler location. Rehydrate with water.

Heat Exhaustion results from a loss of water and salt in the body and occurs when the body is unable to

cool itself properly.

Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or

vomiting, or fainting.

Actions: Rehydrate with cool beverages. Go to an air‐conditioned place and lie down. Loosen clothing.

Take a cool bath. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Heat Stroke occurs when the body's heat‐regulating system is overwhelmed by excessive heat. It is a

life‐threatening emergency and requires immediate medical attention!

Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees taken orally); red, hot, and dry skin with no

sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness, confusion, or unconsciousness.

Actions: Call 911, or get the person to a hospital immediately. Try to lower the person's body

temperature by getting them to a shady area and placing ice packs or cool wet towels on their neck,

armpits, and groin. Cool them down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.

Don't be afraid to get out and enjoy the summer sunshine with your friends and family. Just be sure to be prepared, use common sense, and know when it's time to take a rest. When the temperature starts to rises, follow these simple steps:

Keep strenuous activity to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day (11am‐2pm). Stay hydrated by drinking water even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks. They can cause your body to lose more fluid than normal. Dress for the weather. Loose‐fitting, lightweight clothes are best and stick to light colors.

A sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide‐brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF15 or higher, 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it sunscreen according to the package directions. Tip: Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels; these products work best.

Check in on family, friends, and neighbors. Make sure they are drinking enough water, are keeping cool, and aren’t showing any signs of heat stress.

Don’t forget to check on your pets too. Ensure they are safe during a hot summer day. Pets can dehydrate quickly, so make sure they have plenty of fresh, clean water and a shady place to get out of the sun.

You now have some tools for a hot sunny day, so go out and HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!

52 Weeks of Preparedness – 4th of July Week 26

By Don Gardner


Fireworks during the Fourth of July are as American as apple pie, but did you know that more fires are

reported, and more pets go missing on that day than any other day of the year? The good news is you

can enjoy your holiday, and the fireworks, with just a few simple safety tips.

Probably the best tip is to leave fireworks to the professionals. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to

attend a public display conducted by trained professionals. The City of Orofino has activities, food,

music, and a wonderful professional fireworks show at the city park. The City of Weippe allows you to

use the city park to enjoy your fireworks with everyone. The City of Elk River waits until Saturday the 6th

to put on a professional fireworks show over the airstrip.

If you buy your own fireworks you should only use “safe and sane.” Safe and sane fireworks are non‐

aerial fireworks that remain near the ground and do not travel outside a 20‐foot diameter. Safe and

sane fireworks include cone fountains, sparklers, wheels, and whistles.

Other fireworks, typically aerial ones, are illegal to shoot off in Idaho. Aerial fireworks present a huge

risk for causing fires. While these kinds of fireworks may be purchased legally, Idaho law makes their use

illegal. Illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, sky rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, missiles,

parachutes, sky flyers, display shells, and aerial items.

It is also good to know that possessing and/or using fireworks on federal public lands (Bureau of Land

Management, Forest Service, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Dworshak Reservoir) is strictly

prohibited.

Make sure the fireworks you buy are legal before using them. Here are some tips when using legal

fireworks:

Always read the directions and have an adult present. Use fireworks outdoors in a gravel or asphalt area and away from dry vegetation, cars, buildings, or other flammable materials. Only light one at a time, and keep a safe distance. Don’t point or throw fireworks at another person. Have a bucket of water and a hose handy. Never attempt to re‐light or “fix” fireworks, and don’t carry fireworks in your pockets. Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over; they may still be hot and active. Dispose

of all fireworks or remains of fireworks by soaking them in water. Hot metal wire from sparklers has

seriously burned many small children. The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200

degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third‐degree burns.

First aid for minor burns

1) Place the burn in cool water for three to five minutes. 2) Apply topical anesthetic burn spray. 3) Cover

the burn with a clean, dry cloth. 4) Provide acetaminophen or aspirin as needed for pain. 5) See your

doctor if the burn is larger than your palm.

First aid for serious burns

1) Ask someone to call 911. 2) Immerse affected areas in clean, cold water for up to five minutes.

3) Apply a burn gel. 4) Wrap the wound in gauze or clean towels. 5) Keep burned area elevated until

medical attention arrives.

Let’s not forget our pets.

More pets run away on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year. The Fourth of July is a scary

time for our furry friends. The high‐pitched squeals, thundering booms, and bright flashing lights of the

fireworks can send even the bravest dog running. On the Fourth, pets need their owner’s help and

reassurance to keep them safe and at ease.

Make sure your pet has a collar and ID tag in case they run away. Provide a safe place for them to

retreat, like their crate or bed, and check on them every few hours. Keep your pets indoors, lower

blinds, and close the windows so they won't be frightened by the noise and bright lights. Don’t bring

your pets to a fireworks display.

On our Nation's Independence Day, let’s remember our history and the sacrifice given to build this free

county. We are the land of the free; we are the home of the brave. Happy 4th of July.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Wow Half Way Week 27

By Don Gardner


Wow! We are half way through the project of 52 Weeks of Preparedness. Let’s take some time to review this past quarter. We will look at the articles and touch on the high points to remind you of how to be better prepared. Any good awareness program should look back and see how you are doing so you can make adjustments and keep moving forward. Let’s get started.

Week 15 Grab & Go Bag. We started with Grab & Go Bags. But because we needed to cover many angles, it took four articles for this subject. This first article helped you to build your basic bag. In it you should have things like a flashlight and a way to start a fire that can provide you with warmth, light, and comfort. You will want to be able to signal for help with a whistle and orange plastic ribbon. You should have a good map of the area you are in and have and know how to use a compass. You need water and food for three days. A good water filter will help. Include a space blanket, poncho, and survival blanket for shelter. Medical items are a must, include a first‐aid kit and personal medications. A good knife and some tools always help. And let’s not forget some duct tape, garbage bags, compact sewing kit, and a fork, spoon, and knife set. Some hand warmers, roll of toilet paper, a deck of cards, simple P‐38 can opener, and some parachute cord.

Week 16 Grab & Go Bag for Kids. Print a list of emergency contacts that your children can use. Have an identification card for each child in case they becomes separated from you. Put in a little bit a money so they can buy some food. If your kids need help finding you, a family photograph will help. Put in some extra change of clothes and some toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, antibacterial wipes, kleenex, Band‐Aids, and a small roll of toilet paper. Have a flashlight that kids can use. Bottled water and granola bars will be good if you are separated from them for a few hours. Have them carry their own emergency blanket. Let’s not forget some fun things for them to do like books, games, puzzles, paper, pencils, crayons, and maybe a favorite stuffed animal. Something that the parents will need to include in their personal kits are items that support the children. Things like a well‐stocked diaper bag with formula, diapers, and medication for the children.

Week 17 Grab & Go Bag for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities. The basic kit covers most of the items you will need. Nonetheless, you will need to add items to support your personal necessities during a disaster. Remember your medications and personal equipment. Include copies of all your prescriptions, and talk to your doctor and pharmacist about how you should prepare. Tailor the contents of your grab and go bag to your needs and abilities

Week 18 Pets Go Kits and Evacuation Plans. During disasters your pets will be even more dependent on you for their safety and well‐being. Any plans you make for your family must include your pets, as well. Have some food and any medications your pet may need. Remember to include your pets in your evacuation plans too.

Week 19 Spring Fever. This is one of my favorite subjects. Growing your own food can help you in so many ways. There is still time to start your garden this year, so let’s get to it.

Week 20 Wildfire ‐A Call to Action Over the next few weeks we talked about wildfire and what to do Before, During, and After. These were hard articles to write. I worried that many didn’t read or consider the subject. Wildfire is a way of life here, and we should have all hands on deck. Please go back and read these articles. In the first one, we start with protecting your home with a defensible space. We also

provided a display indicating what you can do to protect the areas near your home, 3‐30 feet from your home, and 31‐100+ feet for your structures.

Week 21 Wildfire ‐ Protect Your House. We then discussed what you can do specifically for your house to be better prepared for a wildfire. Areas we covered included were roofs, gutters, balconies, decks, vents, windows, doors, walls, and any fencing. Don’t forget to make your driveway and access roads accessible to emergency responders, and you need to post your address with 4” reflective numbers that can be seen from the road in both directions.

Week 22 During a Wildfire. It is so important to know what to do during a wildfire. First, be ready to evacuate. Then if it is safe to do so, you can remove flammable items from around your home. Items like leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your roof and gutters, and dead plants and grass around your house. Move yard furniture into the house. Also help your family, friends, and neighbors get ready.

Week 23 Evacuation …Are you ready to go? When you are given an evacuation order you need to know what to do so you can protect your family. If You Are Told to Evacuate, Do So Immediately! Please go back and read this article.

Week 24 After a Wildfire. There can be many hazards and challenges after a wildfire. Be safe and watch over your family. When working wear some personal protective equipment. Ensure your water supply has been inspected and officially declared safe to use. Remember to get plenty of rest, and ask for help; do not try to do it alone.

Week 25 Hot Summer Days. Ahhh summer days are here. Go out and have some fun. Remember to be careful during the hot days and watch out for heat related risks, like sunburn, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. Drink a lot of water and check in on friends and neighbors.

Week 26 4th of July. We covered firework safety and how to treat burns. Then we talked about our pets and how to protect them when all that noise is going on.

Please go back and read past articles. We are looking forward the second half of 52 Weeks of Preparedness

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Measles Week 28

By Don Gardner


We have seen a large increase of Measles in the United States during 2019. To be better prepared let’s

review what Measles is and how it to handle it.

Measles has been around for over a 1,000 years and is one of the most contagious diseases we get to

deal with.

Measles is a childhood infection caused by a virus. Once quite common, measles can almost always be

prevented with a vaccine. Measles can be serious and even fatal for small children. The disease still kills

worldwide more than 100,000 people a year, most under the age of 5.

As a result of high vaccination rates in the United States, measles hasn't been widespread here for more

than a decade. The United States averaged about 60 cases of measles a year from 2000 to 2010, but in

2019 the number of cases has jumped to over 1,000 so far. Recently in Moscow, Idaho two individuals

have come down with the diseases.

Measles is a highly contagious illness caused by a virus that replicates in the nose and throat of an

infected child or adult. When someone with measles coughs, sneezes or talks, infected droplets spray

into the air, where other people can inhale them. It can live in an airspace where the infected person

coughed or sneezed for up to two hours.

The infected droplets may also land on a surface, where they remain active and contagious for several

hours. You can contract the virus by putting your fingers in your mouth or nose or rubbing your eyes

after touching the infected surface.

A person with measles can spread the virus to others, starting four days before any rash appears and

they remains contagious for about four days after the rash has been present.

Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people close to that person who are

not immune will also become infected. Typically a person is immune if they have already had the

measles or have been vaccinated.

Measles signs and symptoms appear around 10 to 14 days after the exposure to the virus. Measles

typically begins with a mild to moderate fever, often accompanied by a persistent dry cough, runny

nose, red, watery eyes, and sore throat. This relatively mild stage may last two or three days.

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash breaks out. It usually begins as flat red spots that appear

on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet. Small raised

bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots. The spots may become joined together as they

spread from the head to the rest of the body. When the rash appears, a person’s fever may spike to

more than 104°F. After a few days, the fever subsides and the rash fades. The infection occurs in stages

over a period of two to three weeks. About one in four people who get measles will be hospitalized.

Call your doctor first if you think you or your child may have been exposed to measles or if you or your

child has a rash resembling measles. By calling first you reduce the risk of infecting others in the

community and the medical staff.

If you find yourself caring for someone with measles, follow your doctor’s instructions and take

appropriate precautions to protect vulnerable family and friends. Because measles is highly contagious

from about four days before to four days after the rash breaks out, those with measles shouldn't return

to activities in which they interact with other people during that period. It may also be necessary to

keep nonimmunized people like siblings and friends away from the infected person during this time.

Vaccination is the best protection against measles. Now would be a good time to review your family's

vaccination records with your doctor.

Measles is still common in many other countries and is just a plane ride away.

Thanks to the CDC, Mayo Clinic, and Public Health for their help on this article.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Campfires

Week 29

By Don Gardner


It doesn’t matter what season it is, campfires are a staple for any camping trip. Sitting under the stars by

a crackling fire has its appeal. From telling scary stories to roasting marshmallows, campfires bring

family and friends together. Campfires can also be very dangerous if they are not handled with caution.

Every year campfire accidents sends children and adults to the emergency room. Burns account for 74%

of all children’s camping injuries, and nearly 50% of the children burned are less than four years old.

Following some simple steps will help you to enjoy your campfire safely.

First, make sure you are at a site that allows campfires, and always follow the campfire rules for the area

where you are camping. Some parks and towns prohibit fires at different times of the year, like during

periods of high fire danger.

When possible build your campfire in an established campfire ring, first clearing it of debris.

If no ring is available and you’re allowed to have a campfire, choose a spot that’s at least 15 feet from

your tent, gear, and anything flammable. Try to select somewhere with a natural windbreak. Clear a 10‐

foot diameter area around your campfire spot down to dirt by removing leaves, grass, and anything

burnable. Don’t build your campfire near plants or under tree limbs or other flammable material

hanging overhead. If allowed, dig a pit for your campfire, about 1‐foot deep, in the center of your

cleared area, and build a fire ring around the pit with rocks to create a barrier.

Firewood can often be collected from the natural environment where you may be camping but it is

important that you respect any restrictions that are in place, particularly if you are camping in a National

Park. If you are allowed to collect wood from the area you are in, ensure it is only fallen branches; never

take wood from standing trees. Remember to keep your collected firewood away from the campfire

area.

It is always good to know what the weather will be like when you’re camping because sudden wind

gusts can blow sparks everywhere causing unexpected fires. When you are ready to start your campfire

be sure to keep a shovel and bucket of water nearby, and don’t use any type of flammable liquid to start

your fire. Your campfire should be built no larger than necessary and should never be left unattended.

Never leave children alone around a fire. A good idea is to make sure that all family members know how

to "Stop, Drop, and Roll". If your clothes catch fire, Stop, Drop to the ground and cover your face with

your hands, then Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out. Be sure to teach this to your

children and even practice the steps together.

Don’t burn dangerous things like aerosol cans, pressurized containers, glass, plastic, or aluminum cans.

They could explode, shatter and/or create harmful fumes or dust, and when the fire is out they leave an

ugly industrial looking mess.

When it’s time to go home, don’t extinguish the campfire with just dirt or sand. Buried coals can

smolder and re‐ignite later.

Whenever possible, allow your campfire to burn out completely to ashes. This requires a little planning

ahead, but it will help a lot when it is time to extinguish the fire. Don’t wait until you’re ready to leave

to begin putting out the campfire. Start this process even before you start packing up your camp.

Next, drown the campfire ashes with water. Use your shovel to stir the ashes and make sure all embers,

coals, and sticks are wet. Be sure to scrape around the edges and between the rocks to get all the

embers and ash mixed in. Continue adding water and stirring until all the material is cool. Check by

holding your bare hand just above the wet ashes, especially around the edges of the fire. If you feel

heat, stir in more water. If it’s too hot to touch, then it’s too hot to leave.

If you built the campfire ring, and once the ashes are cold, disassemble your fire ring and scatter the

rocks. Try to return the spot to how you found it.

Careless campers are often the cause of wildfires, so it is extremely important to ensure you keep your

campfire under control, and always extinguish it completely before you leave. Keep your campfire from

becoming the next wildfire.

Sitting around a campfire with family and friends is how lasting memories are made. Don’t add a wildfire

or injuries that list.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Lightning Week 30

By Don Gardner


Thunderstorms can put on quite the show. We know whenever a thunderstorm approaches something

is going to happen, from wind and heavy rains to hail and lightning. In this article, we are just going to

cover the lightning risks.

Lightning strikes in the United States about 25 million times each year. Although most lightning occurs in

the summer, lightning can strike at any time of year. Each year lightning kills an average of 47 people in

the United States, and hundreds more are severely injured.

Many wildfires in the western United States and Alaska are ignited by lightning. The channel of air

through which lightning passes can be heated to 50,000°F — hotter than the surface of the sun! The

rapid heating and cooling of the air near the lightning channel causes a shock wave that results in the

sound we know as “thunder.”

Let’s talk about the different things you can do to be safe when a thunderstorm is approaching.

Avoid the Lightning Threat

Anyone who is outside during the summer months needs to understand some basic information about

lightning. First you should always check the weather each day before you head out. If a thunderstorm is

forecasted, it will typically be in the afternoon and evenings. Your best source of up‐to‐date weather

information is a NOAA Weather Radio (NWR). A portable weather radios can be handy for outdoor

activities. If you don't have NWR, stay up to date via the Internet, smart phone, radio, or TV. The best

way for you to protect yourself from lightning is to avoid the threat.

The most important thing to remember about lightning is that there is no safe place outdoors when a

thunderstorm is nearby. If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. When you hear

thunder, immediately move to a safe shelter. Go to a substantial building with electricity or plumbing

that helps to ground the structure. An enclosed, metal‐topped vehicle with the windows up will also

provide protection for those inside. Note: Small outdoor buildings including dugouts, rain shelters,

sheds, etc., are NOT SAFE.

Once inside a building stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in

direct contact with electricity. Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets. Stay away from

windows and doors, and stay off porches. Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete

walls. Stay in the safe shelter for at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.

How to reduce the risk if stuck outdoors If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby, the following actions may reduce your risk. ‐ Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks. ‐ Never lie flat on the ground. ‐ Never shelter under an isolated tree or utility poles. ‐ Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter. ‐ Immediately get out and away from ponds, creeks, lakes and other bodies of water. ‐ Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (wire fences, power lines, etc.). Metal does not attract lightning, but lightning can travel long distances through it.

If you're in a group, make sure the group has a lightning safety plan and are ready to use it. The plan

should give clear and specific safety guidelines. These guidelines should address the following questions:

When should activities be stopped? ‐ Where should people go for safety? (If you're in a large group,

you'll need extra time to get everyone to a safe place.) ‐ Who should monitor the weather and make the

decision to stop activities? ‐ When should activities be resumed? ‐ What should be done if someone is

struck by lightning?

IF SOMEONE IS STRUCK BY LIGHTNING

Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death for those who die from a lightning strike. Lightning

victims do not carry an electrical charge and may need first aid immediately. First call 9‐1‐1. Then give

first aid. Begin CPR if you are trained. Use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) if one is available.

These units are lifesavers! Don’t be a victim yourself, if possible, move the victim to a safer place

because lightning can strike twice.

How Far Away Is the Lightning? First count the number of seconds between a flash of lightning and the

sound of the resulting thunder. Now divide this number by 5 to get an estimate of the distance in miles

to the lightning strike. Knowing the distance does not mean you’re safe. Please remember, if you are

outdoors, and you can hear thunder, then you are in danger of being struck by lightning.

Remember, there is no substitute for getting to a safe place.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Travel Safety Week 31

By Don Gardner


Summertime is peak travel season and a popular time for scammers and identity thieves. Fraudsters like

to target areas with high tourist activity. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to protect

yourself while away from home. Today we will cover traveling to tourist areas in this country and around

the world.

First, tell your bank where and when you will be traveling. It can be very frustrating when your

credit/debit cards won’t work while you’re away from home because your bank locked them trying to

protect you from fraud. Nowadays it is easy to let your bank know your plans on their website or by

calling the number on the back of your card.

Before you leave for your trip you should stop your mail delivery or make arrangements for a trusted

individual to pick up your mail daily. An overflowing mailbox is like a huge sign that says “no one is

home.” This will also ensure that important documents aren’t stolen from your mailbox while you’re

gone. You can stop your mail delivery online through the postal service.

Make copies of your important documents that you’ll be carrying. If your wallet gets stolen or lost, it’s

important to know exactly what’s missing. Before you go on your trip, write down all the information

from your credit/debit cards, driver’s license, medical insurance, passport, plane tickets, and other

important documents. This will help you figure out who to call after a theft or loss.

You can create an electronic backup of your important documents before you leave. Write all your

information in an electronic document and/or take pictures of the items and keep them in on your

smartphone. Of course, you should always password‐protect your phone/tablet and add tracking tools.

Your smartphone stores sensitive information. Not only should you set up a password to unlock your

devices, but you should create a strong, unique password and change it regularly. In addition, enable

phone location tracking and install a wiping app so you can track down your phone or destroy the data

on it if it’s ever lost or stolen.

You shouldn’t carry everything together. It might be tempting to keep your cash, credit cards,

identification, and traveler’s checks in your wallet, but don’t do it. Keep any money, credit cards, IDs,

and checks you won’t be using locked in your hotel room safe. Separate the monetary and identifying

items you must carry on you, and have them in different spots on your person. This prevents you from

losing everything should somebody steals your wallet. Oh, and one more thing, don’t carry things in your

back pocket. Pickpockets have been known to target tourists and the back pocket is one of the easiest to

pick.

Avoid using public WiFi. Cyber thieves have many methods to get your information. One way is called

“man in the middle.” They can easily fake a public WiFi that you could log into. Once longed on, you get

access to the Internet, and they get access to your device and see everything you’re doing. They have

been known to do this even in hotels. Instead of using public WiFi, set up your own WiFi hotspot with

your cell phone provider. It’s never a good idea to use public WiFi.

Disable WiFi and Bluetooth auto connecting. Some devices will automatically seek and connect to

available wireless networks and other Bluetooth devices. Disable these features so that you only

connect to wireless and Bluetooth networks when you want to.

Keep your friends and family posted on where you are. The best way is to email the full itinerary to a

few family members (and double‐check with them that they received it). Then, if you can, check in from

time to time.

Don’t share your agenda or location on social media. This allows potential thieves to keep track of where

you are. Instead, wait to post about your trip when you get home.

It’s not recommend sharing too many details about your travel plans or accommodation with people

you’ve just met. For example, don’t tell a local shop owner where you’re staying when asked. If

someone does ask, rather than be rude, you can be vague about an area of town rather than the name

of your hotel. Or lie and name a hotel you’re not actually staying at. When feeling vulnerable in a

strange place, little white lies won’t hurt.

Wherever you go in the world, you’ll always find people ready to trick you out of your hard‐earned cash.

If you’re lucky, they’ll be kind of obvious, but there are plenty of craftier, professional con‐artists out

there too. Everyone thinks they’re too smart to be scammed, but it happens. Do some online research

to learn of the common local scams.

Write down the emergency contact information for the area you are traveling in. If an emergency

strikes, you might not have time to search for the phone numbers of the local police or ambulance

services, or directions to the nearest U.S. embassy. You may also be too stressed and panicky to think

straight. Don’t put yourself in that position. Instead, record that information in advance; that way, if

something goes wrong out there, you’ll always know exactly whom to call and where to go for help.

When traveling internationally, you should check the State Department’s website. They have a page for

every country in the world on which they lists all known difficulties and current threats to the safety of

visitors. Researching travel warnings will give you a general idea of what’s going on in the country you’re

visiting, as well as specific problem areas you may want to avoid.

Check out Clearwater County’s website under Emergency Management for more information on

traveling.

Taking some easy safety steps will make your trip that much more enjoyable. Now go out and enjoy your

adventures.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – College Prep Week 32

By Don Gardner


As the school year approaches, many young adults are preparing to head off to college or a trade school.

Many will be truly on their own for the first time, which can be challenging. While students will soon

settle in to enjoy their new surroundings and routine, the transition may be a little less stressful if they

know how to handle themselves in an emergency.

This article is directed to you, the student, preparing to head out, whether for the first time, or again

after summer break, or even a longer hiatus. Of course parents and siblings, please read along; some of

these tips apply to you, also, and will help you support your student.

Whether it be as simple as a power outage or as challenging as a massive snow storm, being prepared

can help students to remain safe and deal calmly with different situations. A disaster can occur when

you least expect it, and regardless of where you happen to be at the time — at home, work, or school —

being prepared helps ensure the best possible outcome.

First learn what types of emergencies/hazards that can potentially affect your area of residence.

Knowing this helps in understanding how to respond to the events.

Most colleges and universities have emergency plans that outline the procedures in the event of a

natural or manmade disaster. Check their website to see if its plans are posted. If not, call the

admissions officer to request a copy of their plan.

Next you should build an emergency kit with the right supplies. The kit can be as simple as a backpack

containing items like a flashlight, a small radio, extra batteries, a solar‐powered or hand‐cranked cell

phone charger, energy bars, water and first aid supplies. You are encouraged to go back and read the

Grab & Go Bags article printed April 10, 2019, and the First Aid Kits article published March 17, 2019, for

a lot more details. Keep your kit under the bed or on the top shelf of a closet where it will be easily

accessible in an emergency.

Students (and family members) should update their cell phone contacts and add an “In Case of

Emergency” number in their contact list. Remember that cell service may be unreliable in the aftermath

of a disaster; texting or communicating via social media may be possible even when phone calls are not.

Also, be sure you have the Campus Security phone number programmed into your phone for quick

calling, if necessary.

Work out a family communications plan so that you will know how to get in touch with each other at

any time. Develop a list of contacts. Decide who to call/text first or where to leave a message and who

would be a good backup. Sometimes an out‐of‐state contact person is a good choice. It is often easier to

call long distance than locally during an emergency situation. Prepare an emergency information sheet

listing the names, locations and phone numbers for family members, physicians, medical insurance, and

other important resources.

Almost all colleges now have some form of Emergency Alert or Warning system that allows the school to reach students, faculty, staff, and sometimes family members in case of a campus wide emergency. This emergency might range from an active shooter on campus to a weather emergency. Make sure that you are registered in the system and that your contact information is accurate. Although unlikely, in certain disaster situations it could become necessary to evacuate campus. Preparing for an emergency evacuation before there is an eminent danger will lessen the stress and increase the effectiveness of the evacuation. Discuss in advance where to go in case of a campus evacuation. Determine how you will exit your apartment, dorm, or house. Know at least two ways to get out. Determine the most practical means by which you could leave campus. Personal car, ‐Ride with a friend or sibling. ‐Parent or relative pick up. Set up driving routes and meeting places. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, then remember as soon as possible, let a designated person know that you are safe. Schooling brings so many adventures; being prepared makes it that much easier to enjoy.

Week 33 for publishing August 14, 2019

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Poison Control Centers Week 33

By Don Gardner


Poison Control Centers (PCCs) have provided vital health services to the general public and health care

professionals for over half a century. This 24‐hour emergency and information hotline (1‐800‐222‐1222)

provides poison expertise and treatment advice to the general public regardless of their social,

economic, health insurance status, or language preference. The hotline is also available to healthcare

professionals, emergency responders, and governmental agencies. These services are accessible and

available to all communities, in over 150 languages, and via telecommunications devices for the deaf

and hearing impaired (TDD).

PCC’s manages more than 2.4 million poison exposures in the U.S. each year and at no direct cost to the

patient or the practitioner. Poison Control Centers are staffed by pharmacists, physicians, nurses and

poison information providers who are toxicology specialists.

In the world we live in, many products can be poisons. Poison is anything that can harm you if it is used

in the wrong way, used by the wrong person, or used in the wrong amount. Most poisonings happen

when poisons are swallowed, splashed in the eyes, come in contact with the skin, or are breathed in or

inhaled. Poisoning can occur in your home, at school, at work, and the great outdoors.

Some of the more common poisoning risks include, ‐ cleaning products, – medicines, ‐ insect sprays,

weed killers, ‐plant food, – poisons plants in the house and yard, ‐ mushrooms, ‐ animal bites and sting’s

‐ cigarettes and cigarette butts, ‐ carbon monoxide gas (CO) (usually from cars and heating devices), ‐

beauty products, including perfumes, and nail polish removers, ‐ fuels such as gasoline, kerosene, and

lighter fluids.

What you can do if you think someone has been poisoned

1. First, keep calm. Help is as near as your phone. Keeping calm will help you understand the advice and

help the victim.

2. Check the condition of the victim. Call 911 right away if the person has collapsed or is unconscious, if

they show life‐threatening signs like having trouble breathing, severe pain in the chest, or experiencing a

seizure, or any other concerning signs.

3. Call the poison control center (1‐800‐222‐1222) even if there are no signs of poisoning. Try to identify

what poison is involved. If it is a product, bring its container to the phone. A poison expert will answer

your call. Be ready to tell the expert the age and weight of the victim, the name of the product, and the

amount of product involved, as well as what, if any, treatment was attempted, and what signs of

poisoning did you noticed.

The poison expert will give you the advice you need. The Poison Control Center may stay on the phone

with you while you get help, or they may call you later to follow up. Most calls can be handled at home

but If you need a doctor or ambulance, the poison expert will tell you right away.

Tips to Prevent Poisonings

Buy products that children can’t open easily. Be aware that child‐resistant caps are not risk free. Once a

child learns how to open the containers with safety caps, they will no longer keep a child safe.

Store all commercial products in their original containers and well out of reach of little hands. Keep

medicines, cleansers, and other poisonous products out of sight; keep them in cabinets that are locked

or in cabinets that children can’t open.

Be careful when using medicines, cleansers, and other poisons. With children, poisonings can happen in

just a few seconds. Don’t leave containers open when you answer the phone or doorbell; replace the

cap, or take the product with you.

Avoid taking medicines in front of children because they often copy adults. Also, and do not refer to

medicines as "candy."

Never take medicines in the dark, and be careful when taking more than one medicine. Read the labels

carefully to avoid an overdose. When taking more than one medicine at a time, check labels and with

your doctor to make sure it’s safe to take them together.

Identify poisonous plants in your house and yard and place them out of reach of children or remove

them all together.

To be alerted when carbon monoxide levels are too high, you should install carbon monoxide (CO)

detectors in your home.

Poison and children.

Accidental death from eating or drinking dangerous household substances happens mostly to children.

Over 50% of all calls receive at the Poison Control Centers are associated with children five years old and

younger. The leading causes of poison episodes in Idaho children are analgesics (pain killers such as

aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen); personal care products; household cleaning and automotive

products; foreign bodies (including magnets); and topical preparations. Most poisonings exposures

occur in a child’s own home.

Remember, though, poisoning does not happen only to children. It can happen to anyone, at any time

and in any place. Poisoning is much more common than most people think.

Finally, put the national Poison Control Center number, 1‐800‐222‐1222, on or near every home

telephone, and save it on your cell phone. Calls are free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

###

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Active Shooter Week 34

By Don Gardner


Understandably, Active Shooter is a sensitive topic and there is no perfect response. This week we will

look at how you may deal with a violent situation, regardless of the weapon used. In most cases,

firearms are the weapon of choice, but any weapon (such as a knife, etc.) can be used to harm innocent

individuals. We will use the term “Active Shooter” to represent the use of any weapon intended to harm

or kill in this article.

Statistically, about 69% of active shooter incidents ended in less than five minutes with 23% ending in

two minutes or less. Because these situations are often over so fast, and many times before law

enforcement arrives on the scene, individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal

with an active shooter situation.

To start, every day and any time you’re in public, you should be aware of your environment and any

possible dangers. Look for the two nearest exits anywhere you go, and have an escape path in mind. You

should take the time and make this a habit.

It is not uncommon for people confronted with a threat to first deny the possible danger rather than

respond. Individuals need to be able to quickly decide what action is appropriate based on their

location. The goal in all cases is to survive and protect others, but options will depend on how close

individuals are to the shooter.

Usually, active shooter incidents are unpredictable in nature and evolve quickly. There is no definitive

best response during an active shooter event, but today we will talk about a Run, Hide, Fight mindset to

help increase the odds of surviving.

Those present during an active shooter event can Run away from the shooter, seek a secure place to

Hide and prevent the shooter access, or Fight and incapacitate the shooter in order to survive and

protect others from harm.

Run

Getting away from the shooter or shooters is the top priority. Leave your belongings behind and get

away. Warn others and prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be.

Help others escape, if possible, and evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow you.

Call 911 when you are safe, and describe shooter, location, and weapons

Hide

If running is not a safe option, you should hide in as safe of a place as possible, where the walls might be

thicker and have fewer windows. Likewise, for people that cannot run, hiding may be the only option.

Get out of the shooter’s view, and stay very quiet. Block entry to your hiding place, and lock and block

doors, close and lock windows, close any blinds, and turn off the lights. Silence your electronic devices,

and make sure they won’t vibrate. Do not hide in groups—spread out along walls or hide separately to

make it more difficult for the shooter. When it is safe to do so, use strategies to silently communicate

with police —such as through text messages or calling 911 and leaving the line open to allow the

dispatcher to listen in. Remain quiet and stay in place until law enforcement gives you notice that all

immediate danger is clear.

Fight

If neither running nor hiding is a safe option, when confronted by the shooter individuals in immediate

danger should consider trying to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter. When you are in immediate

danger, you may need to defend yourself. Ambushing the shooter with a weapon or, together with

others, using makeshift weapons such as chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors, and books can distract and

disarm the shooter. Research shows there is strength in numbers. Confronting a shooter may be

daunting and upsetting for some individuals, but great comfort can come from the knowledge that your

actions could save lives.

Interacting with First Responders

While you wait for first responders to arrive, you should remain calm and provide first aid to those in

need. Be aware that the first priority for the responding law enforcement is to respond to the threat,

and engage and neutralize the active shooter as soon as possible; all other actions are secondary.

Follow First Responders instructions. Officers will shout commands and may push individuals to the

ground for their safety. Avoid quick movements toward officers, such as holding on to them. Put down

any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets), and keep your hands visible at all times. Avoid pointing,

screaming, or yelling.

Psychological First Aid

An important aspect of recovery is to treat the emotional side effects of violence and stress.

Understanding that the survivors and others affected by the events will experience a broad range of

reactions. Take advantage of critical incident counseling, if made available in your community, and

consider seeking professional help for you and your family to cope with the long‐term effects of trauma.

This article is only advice; the choice of how to respond is yours. I only ask that you do prepare.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Predicting the Weather? Week 35

By Don Gardner


Why it's so hard to predict the weather? We have seen warnings, and good weather predictions that just go wrong. Often our forecasts are grouped together with other areas. What’s happening in Grangeville is not necessarily what’s happening is Elk River, Pierce, Weippe or Orofino. So what is going on?

Weather is a complex system and the atmosphere is prone to chaotic behavior. There are massive amounts of observations needed and it’s hard to know how the physics will actually play out.

Forecasters have come a long way over the years. Even over the last decade the improvements have given us forecast that are far more accurate. But long before current technology was used people relied on observation, patterns and folklore to avoid being caught off‐guard by the weather.

Let’s look at some ways you can see what is happening in real time.

First we will start with weather apps for your smartphone, there are so many.

Here are a couple I use ‐ “Radar Now” is an app that shows you the current moving radar pictures for wherever you are located. ‐ “Weather Bug” has radar, predictions, lightning alerts etc. I am sure you have some favorite weather apps too.

There are also plenty of ways to check out the current weather online.

If you want to see weather conditions in Clearwater County, we have installed weather stations that you can go and see online. Clearwater County’s website has links you can follow. You can find them under the Emergency Management page.

Next check out Idaho’s 511 online to see road cameras and current weather thought out the state. Something worth checking before you travel.

Another great place to see and add local information about the current weather is at “6C Weather” on Facebook.

Be sure to check out NOAA. They provide a lot of information online. Remember to bookmark their webpage.

Did you know Clearwater County has a NOAA weather broadcasting station on Norton Knob? This station broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts, and other hazard information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) is an "All Hazards" radio network, for comprehensive weather and emergency information.

In conjunction with federal, state, local emergency managers, and other public officials, NWR will also broadcasts warning and post‐event information for all types of hazards – including natural (such as blizzards and high winds), environmental (such as chemical releases or oil spills), and public safety (such as AMBER alerts or 911 telephone outages). NWR requires a special radio receiver or scanner capable of picking up the VHF signal.

Clearwater County’s broadcast is found on the VHF public service band at NWR Channel 5 or 162.500 MHz. If you purchase a weather radio with SAME capability, you can receive the alerts that are for Clearwater County. Following the radio’s manual, you can program your radio to Clearwater County’s alert code of 016035.

Now for a little fun.

“Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Red sky in morning, sailor’s warning” Fact of Fiction?

Usually, weather moves from west to east and the prevailing winds tend to be westerly in the northern hemisphere (But not always).

During sunrise and sunset, the sun is low in the sky, and transmits light through the thickest part of the atmosphere. The reddish colors we see is due to the scattering of sunlight as it passes through the air and bounces off water vapor and suspended dust particles in the atmosphere. The amounts of water vapor and dust particles can be a good indicators of weather conditions.

Red sky at night, sailors delight.

When we see a red sky at night, the atmosphere is dominated by sinking air (high pressure) and the sun is sending its light through a high concentration of dust particles. This usually indicates stable air coming in from the west. Basically good weather will follow.

Red sky in morning, sailor’s warning.

A red sunrise can mean that a high pressure system (good weather) has already passed, thus indicating that a storm system (low pressure) may be moving to the east. A morning sky that is a deep, fiery red can indicate that there is high water content in the atmosphere. So, rain could be on its way.

Keep in mind this saying was developed before satellite, radar and modern meteorological knowledge. But it’s still fun and a lot of the time it’s true.

Weather plays such a major role in our life and today we have only scratched the surface of what weather sources are available. Now’s a great time to go explore.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Food Storage Week 36

By Don Gardner


September is National Preparedness month in the U.S., and over the next several weeks we’re going to

cover how to set up your home so that you will be more prepared. During this year, we’ve covered a

number of subjects that support you at home, but now were going to work on establishing your home as

a comfortable survival location.

This week, we will cover food storage. Over the years it has been recommended that you store three

days’ worth of food for emergency’s. But as past disasters have been analyzed, it has become clear that

food resources can be hard to get during the three months following a disaster. This article will focus on

a three‐month food storage plan. Some folks may like to store enough food for a year or longer, but

three months of food will be a great stepping stone towards that.

Following a disaster, there may be road closures and power outages that could last for several days.

From a catastrophic event to a personal setback, like a job loss, having three months’ worth of food on

hand can be a great benefit and will make surviving a disaster that much easier.

Back in 2010 after the wind storm that hit our area, some homes were without power for over five days.

Any food that was in a refrigerator and freezer was at risk of spoiling. When thinking about food storage

consider foods that require no power to store, such as canned foods, dry mixes, and other staples that

do not require refrigeration or special preparation.

First and foremost, only store food items that your family likes and will eat. Don’t go out and buy a

bunch of MRE’s if your family has never eaten them. Having comfort food is best during a disaster. Some

key elements to consider are variety, balance and moderation. All family members should have some

input into the types of foods to be stored. Also remember any special dietary needs of your family

members.

Starting your own food storage isn’t difficult; in fact, it’s as simple as picking up a few extra things each

time you head to the store.

Let’s start

First, take an inventory of all the canned, bagged, boxed, and packaged foods your family regularly has

on hand. You may already be further along than you think.

Next, make a list of meals your family likes. For example, let’s say one of the meals is spaghetti. Break

this down into its ingredients: noodles, sauce, meat. Now let’s say you will plan to eat this meal twice a

month. So for three months you will need to store the ingredients for six meals. What that could look

like is six small bags or one large bag of spaghetti noodles, six cans or jars of sauce, and some canned or

freeze dried meat. This list requires no refrigeration and can be stored for a long time. Do this for all

your other meals and you will have created your master inventory list.

Now decide on a food storage budget, such as $10 ‐ $20 per month per person. One week you might

pick up three cans of tuna, two cans of spaghetti sauce, and a bag of dry beans. Be sure to look for foods

with the best shelf life. By following your list and shopping sales, in no time you will have three months

of food stored.

Learn to gather patiently. Don’t panic and rush to the store. Just gather some items each time you shop.

Keep your inventory list on a cupboard door to help track how much you want to store and what you

use. Hang your grocery list next to it and write down what to buy next time you shop.

Some items to consider

Ready‐to‐eat canned meals like chili, stew, soups, and ravioli ‐ as well as canned meats, fruits, and

vegetables, (remember to have a can opener)

Dry and packaged goods such as Jerky ‐ dry cereal or granola ‐ peanut butter and jelly ‐ hard candy and

canned nuts ‐ dried fruit ‐ rice ‐ dried beans ‐ dry pasta – crackers ‐ instant coffee, tea ‐ instant mashed

potatoes ‐ high energy foods ‐ food for infants – vitamins

Easy‐to‐store ingredients like powdered milk – salt ‐ baking powder – backing soda – sugar – coco ‐

cooking oils ‐ bouillon products – flour – yeast – honey – and other spices.

Storage tips

Keep food in a dry, cool spot and a dark area if possible.

Take food boxes/bags and re‐seal them in air‐tight containers so that you can close them securely after

each use.

Use foods before they go bad. Place new items at the back of the storage area and older ones in front. A

good practice is to put the purchase date all items with a marker so it’s easy to see.

Inspect all food for signs of spoilage before use.

Don’t eat foods from cans that are swollen, dented, or corroded, even though the product may look safe

to eat. When in doubt, throw it out.

Instead of burying food in your basement to use only during emergencies, learn to “store what you eat,

and eat what you store.”

On Clearwater County’s web page under the Emergency Management tab you can download a useful

Food Storage Guide.

Being ready for whatever life has to throw at us is a step in the right direction.

Next week we will talk about water storage.

###

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Water Week 37

By Don Gardner


One of the most important steps to being prepared is to have a stockpile of water. Relying on your

current water system is not the best approach. During disasters power could be out, and this will put

water pumps and treatments facilities off line.

Keep in mind that a normal, active person needs about one gallon of water daily. Individual needs may

vary depending on age, health, physical condition, activity, diet and climate. Also on very hot days your

water needs can double. With this in mind, you may need to store more water.

To determine your water needs, take the following into account. Most people need two quarts of water

per day for drinking and two quarts for cooking, bathing, and cleaning. Children, nursing mothers, and

sick people may need more water. A medical emergency might require additional water. Don’t forget

your pets. A small pet can drink one quart of water per day.

At a minimum, store at least a two‐week supply of water for each member of your family. Just as you

are increasing your food storage to three months, you should work towards three months of water.

Larger containers can help.

Purchased bottled water can be stored for several months. Keep water in its original container and store

in a dark cool place. Long term water storage should be done in food grade plastic containers, preferably

heavy opaque plastic with tight fitting, screw‐on caps. Do not store water in empty milk jugs. The plastic

is too thin and will only last a couple months; also bacteria from the milk can become lodged in the

plastic itself and will contaminate your water. Never store your water near gasoline, kerosene, or

pesticides, or similar substances.

Clearly label all drinking containers “Drinking Water.” Mark the date on containers and place in a cool,

dark location. A small amount of household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite – eight drops per gallon)

will prevent bacterial growth.

Store as much water as possible, and constantly monitor the supplies for leakage. Properly stored water

does not go bad. However, it may taste stale. To improve the taste, just pour water from one container

to another several times to aerate.

It may become necessary to treat any suspicious water. Treat all water of uncertain quality before using

it for drinking, food washing or preparation, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and making ice.

If the water is cloudy/dirty, you can run it through a coffee filter first or let sit for a time before treating.

Boiling Water: Boil vigorously 3‐5 minutes. Let cool before using.

Water Purification Tablets: Available at most camping and drug stores. Follow the directions on the

package.

Chlorine Bleach: Liquid household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite) can be used. Mix thoroughly and

let stand for 30 minutes. Do not use scented bleaches, color‐safe bleaches, or bleaches with added

cleaners.

If the water is clear: ‐ (1 quart, 2 drops) – (1 gallon, 8 drops) – (5 gallons, ½ teaspoon)

If the water is cloudy: ‐ (1 quart, 4 drops)‐ (1 gallon, 16 drops) – (5 gallons, 1 teaspoon)

Filtration: There are multiple levels of filtration, and not all water filtering systems are the same. Most

filters remove disease‐causing parasites and microorganisms; however, filters are not always effective in

removing viruses. You can find some filters that use a chemical disinfectant for treating viruses. A

combination of filtration and purification of contaminated water is recommended.

Do some research and find the filter that works for you. There are other methods you could use to treat

water such as Reverse Osmosis, and UV light.

Consider putting a LifeStraw water filter in your grab bag for when you travel. They are small and easy to

use.

During disasters, never ration drinking water unless ordered to do so by authorities. It’s better to stay

hydrated during these times.

Just remember it’s always a good idea to stock more water than you anticipate you need.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Disaster Cooking Week 38

By Don Gardner


You have started your three‐month food and water supply. Now the question is: When you’re without

power for a few hours, days, or even weeks, how will you heat water and cook food? Let’s talk about

different ways to feed your family during a disaster.

In rural areas like ours, it is most common for our cooking to be done with electrical appliances. Some

folks do have propane stoves, and they will have a bit easier time preparing a meal.

Even without your, electric stove/oven, gas‐powered stove/oven, or microwave, you can still cook up a

tasty meal. In fact, disaster cooking is a skill that can turn a dire situation into an enjoyable mealtime.

The first three meals during a disaster should be simple and easy. During those first hours, will you be

able to, or even want to, think about cooking a meal. You should have some easy non‐cook meals

stored. Things like tuna, crackers, canned fruit, trail mix, jerky, and peanut butter and jelly. Items like

these will work well at first.

Different ways to cook

First, understand that using an emergency generator to power an electric stove or microwave is not a

good allocation of resources. Stoves and microwaves use a lot of power in a short amount of time. It’s

much more practical to use other means to heat/cook your food. Also never run a generator indoors.

Those who go camping regularly will probably have a camp stove that can work. But first, a word of

warning: Before you think about using a camp stove indoors, you must provide proper ventilation. Try to

place the stove near an open window, and be sure to turn off the stove when done. Also cook meals

that don’t require long cook times. The key here is to create additional airflow in the room you are

cooking in. This way, you'll prevent carbon monoxide buildup and poisoning.

If you are going to use a camp stove indoors, it is wise to invest in a carbon monoxide detector. These

are easy to find at hardware stores and they don’t cost much. Try to only use your camp stove outside

but if you need to cook inside due to the weather, then take all safety precautions beforehand to avoid

any health hazards or problems.

You may be asking why, if camp stoves require special care to use indoors, they why are propane/gas

stoves in people’s houses are okay. Commercially made propane/gas kitchen stoves have been

specifically designed, installed, and properly ventilated to allow for the carbon monoxide gas to escape.

It all boils down to the fact that most camp stoves were not designed to work indoors.

Propane Grill or Charcoal Grill – For Exterior Use Only!

Your standard propane/charcoal grill can do double duty for a summer bar‐b‐que and an emergency

backup stove. Many people already have grills and know how to use them. The down‐side is that they

are Never Safe to use indoors and can be unpleasant, if not impossible, to use during really nasty

weather. Keep spare propane or charcoal on hand. Always store your propane cylinder outside and

upright in a protected location – never inside a house or garage or near combustible materials.

If you are you lucky enough to have a fire pit in your yard, it can be put to use in an emergency cooking

situation. Make sure to have plenty of fuel (wood or charcoal) on hand. Dutch ovens work great in a fire

pit. Dutch ovens have been used for cooking for hundreds of years. Dutch ovens are well suited for long,

slow cooking, such as in making roasts, stews, casseroles, breads, and desserts. Virtually any recipe that

can be cooked in a conventional oven can be cooked in a Dutch oven. Using charcoal briquettes makes it

easier to estimate temperatures needed, which results in better meals.

What to cook first

Anyone who has ever been through a power outage knows that your refrigerator and freezer are going

to stay cold for a limited amount of time, provided you don’t open the door any more than you have to.

A refrigerator will keep food cold for about eight hours if the door is kept closed. A full freezer will keep

temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half‐full). If your refrigerator or freezer is not full, group

foods together. This will help foods stay cold longer. Use a thermometer to see that your food is stored

at a safe temperature (34 to 45 °F)

If you know that the power will be interrupted for a long time, use refrigerated foods first. The most

important thing to remember is to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

Knowing how to cook a good meal during a disaster will proved comfort to your family. Have some fun,

practice some of these ideas.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Power Outages Week 39

By Don Gardner


You know it’s going to happen; the power will go out. It could be for a few hours or even days. Power

outages have many causes: storms, construction mishaps, high winds, extreme heat, and severe

weather, just to name a few.

A power outage can disrupt communications, water systems, grocery stores, gas stations, businesses,

ATMs, banks, and other services.

If properly prepared, you may be able to stay at home and deal with these inconveniences for a few

hours or even a few days. But others, including those with babies, older adults, or people who are ill,

may choose to leave for a safer place.

Steps you should you take when the power goes out

The first thing to do is determine whether it is really a power outage or a problem with your own

breakers. Reach for your flashlight and check your main electrical panel. (If you don’t know how to check

your electrical panel, right now is the time to learn… before any power outages.)

If it is not a breaker, check to see whether the power is out for your neighbors too. Power can be lost in

some very localized ways. For instance, houses that are served by the same power transformer may be

dark, while houses across the street are fully lit.

If it is an outage, contact your utility company to report it. Sometimes it can be difficult to reach them.

Please be patient. Do not call 9‐1‐1. That number should only be used if there is an emergency, or if

someone is injured or in danger. But do call 9‐1‐1 if power lines are down in your neighborhood.

Remember, never go near any downed power lines.

Turn off all major appliances, and unplug televisions, computers, and sensitive equipment to avoid an

overload when the power is restored. It is easy to forget that you had a stove burner or an iron on and if

you're away from home when the power is restored, you could have a serious safety hazard. You should

however, leave one light on so you can easily tell when power has been restored.

Break out the flashlights and have your extra batteries ready. Only use flashlights, battery powered

lanterns, and glow sticks, but never candles. The flames from candles can lead to a bigger risk of an

accidental fire. Now is a good time to re‐read the “Week 2” article for more details about flashlights. You

can find it at Clearwater County’s web site and under the Emergency Management page.

Have at least one cell phone or corded house phone that works even when the electricity is out.

Cordless phones won’t work when there is no power. Keep your cell phone fully charged and have a

portable charger ready. Save power on your cell phone by not using it as a flashlight, for playing games,

or for texting everyone.

As we talked about in last week’s article, remember to keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed

as much as possible to help keep your food cold.

Have a battery‐powered radio for weather updates including official warnings, forecasts, and other

hazard information. Make sure to have extra batteries.

If it’s very hot outside, try to stay cool by going to the lowest level of your home. Wear lightweight, light‐

colored clothing, and drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

If it’s very cold outside, wear many layers of warm clothing. Don’t use your gas oven as a source of heat;

the fumes could be dangerous.

If you need to use an alternate source of heat, such as a fireplace, wood stove, or portable kerosene

heater, be sure it is vented to the outside. Never use camp stoves or outdoor grills to heat inside your

home. Without enough fresh air, carbon monoxide fumes can build up in your home and cause sickness

or even death. Be sure you have a Carbon Monoxide alarm.

Close off as many rooms as possible. Heat only one room and center your activity in that room. Select a

room on the warm side of the house away from prevailing winds. Keep doors and curtains closed.

Some people may choose to use a generator during a power outage. Generators can be gas/diesel or

propane fueled. Choose a generator based on your personal and home needs, and follow the

manufacturer’s instructions. Generators should only be operated outside, far away from windows,

doors, and vents. Never run a generator inside your home, basement, carport, crawlspace, or attached

garage.

Plug appliances directly into a generator or use a heavy‐duty, outdoor rated extension cord that has the

watts/amps at least equal to the total of the appliance loads.

If you choose to hardwire your generator to your household wiring system, have a licensed electrician

install it. The electrician should install a separate outdoor receptacle and a double‐throw transfer

switch to isolate the generator from the power grid to protect utility workers repairing lines.

If you use electrical medical devices, you will need talk to your medical provider about a power outage

plan for your devices. For refrigerated medicines, find out how long medication can be stored at a higher

temperature and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.

Check on your neighbors. Older adults and young children who are more vulnerable to power outages,

especially when there are extreme temperatures.

Whether you stay or leave your home, be prepared because there is no reason to be left in the dark.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Volcanoes Week 40

By Don Gardner


Even though we don’t live close to any volcanoes that would require us to evacuate, we still can be

impacted by eruptions in our area. For those who remember back in 1980, when Mount St. Helens

erupted, you’ll recall our area was impacted by significant amounts of falling ash. So this week, let’s talk

about volcanoes and how we can respond.

The Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest has more than a dozen potentially active volcanoes, and to

the southeast there is also the Yellowstone Caldera. Pacific Northwest volcanoes tend to erupt

explosively, and on average, two eruptions occur per century—the most recent being Mount St. Helens

in 1980.

When eruptions occur, large clouds of ash can extend for hundreds of miles downwind. Ash from the

May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens, fell over an area of 22,000 square miles in the western

United States. Heavy ash fall can collapse buildings, and minor ash fall can damage crops, electronics,

machinery, and cause severe health problems.

Volcanic ash is a mixture of rock, mineral, and glass particles expelled from a volcano during an eruption.

Its particles are very hard and usually have jagged edges. As a result, it can cause eye, nose, and lung

irritation, as well as breathing problems.

Ashfall over extensive areas can also prevent travel for days because of poor visibility, slippery roads,

and damage to vehicles. Power outages may occur before, during, and after an ashfall, either due to

equipment failure or because power facilities are temporarily shut down to prevent damage.

Afterwards, wind and human activity can stir up ash for weeks to years.

Because of the distance we are from any volcanos, we should have some warning before the ash arrives.

You should be prepared for ashfall by stocking goggles and dust masks for all household members.

What you should do during ashfall

Minimize your exposure to airborne ash by using a dust mask (or a wet cloth, such as a bandana), and

minimize any travel.

Keep ash out of homes, buildings, machinery, vehicles, water supplies, and wastewater systems (for

example, storm drains) as much as possible. Close the fireplace damper and close doors and windows.

Place damp towels at door thresholds and other draft sources. Protect sensitive electronics by covering

with a towel or trash bag, and do not uncover until the environment is totally ash‐free. Do not use any

appliances that can draw air in from the outside.

Disconnect drainpipes/downspouts from gutters to stop drains from clogging, but allowing ash and

water to empty from gutters onto the ground. If you use a rainwater collection system for your water

supply, disconnect the tank prior to ash falling.

If you have chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma, stay inside and avoid unnecessary exposure to

the ash. Keep children and pets indoors. If outdoors, ensure pets and livestock have access to clean food

and water.

Once the ash has settled

Listen to the local radio station for information on the eruption and clean‐up plans.

You should wear a facemask if you are cleaning up ash. The most effective breathing protection for

adults is to wear a well‐fitting facemask such as an N95 mask. These are efficient at filtering ash and are

usually designed to fit adult faces, but may be too big for children. When your facemask fits properly,

there should be a good seal around your face so that you cannot feel any air coming in around the

edges. Disposable masks are designed for single use and should be disposed of after eight hours of use.

N‐95 masks can be purchased at hardware stores.

When cleaning up ash, you should also protect your eyes by wearing goggles. Avoid using contact lenses

because ash can get between the lens and the eye.

In general, surfaces should be vacuumed to remove as much ash as possible from carpets, furniture,

appliances, and other items. Portable vacuum systems equipped with high‐efficiency particulate filtering

systems are recommended whenever possible.

When cleaning surfaces by hand, avoid excessive rubbing. Volcanic ash particles are very abrasive. When

cleaning glass or similar surfaces, use a detergent soaked cloth. Only dab the surface, as wiping it will

cause abrasions.

Before removing the ash in the yard, dampen the area to reduce the suspension of the ash; however, try

to use water sparingly ‐ do not soak the ash. Soaking ash will cause it to cake into a hard mass, making

clean‐up more difficult. Don’t flush ash into storm water drains. It can damage waste water treatment

systems and clog pipes.

Most roofs cannot support more than four inches of wet ash, if possible keep roofs free of thick

accumulation. Remove ash from your roof by brushing it off. Be very careful, as ash makes surfaces

slippery. Its best to wait until the ashfall has stopped.

Do not drive unless absolutely necessary; driving stirs up the ash. Additionally, ash is harmful to vehicles.

Don’t use the car’s windshield wipers because the ash is abrasive. Dust off with a brush. In heavy ash

conditions, change the car’s air filter every 50‐100 miles and the oil filter regularly.

Volcanic eruptions don’t happen very often, but when they do it can make such a mess. Purchase those

goggles and masks now, and keep this article around just in case.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Almost Done Week 41

By Don Gardner


It’s hard to believe that this is the 41st article and there’s only 11 left. So it’s time for our third quarter

review. To get any of the full articles just go to Clearwater County’s webpage and under the emergency

management tab you’ll find them.

Week 28 Measles. Measles is a highly contagious illness, and this year we have seen a large increase of

the disease in the United. We talked about the risk and how easy it is to become infected. If you think

that you or a family member is infected, you should call your doctor before going to the clinic or

hospital. By calling first you reduce the risk of infecting others in the community and the medical staff.

Vaccination is the best protection against measles. Now would be a good time to review your family's

vaccination records with your doctor.

Week 29 Campfires. It doesn’t matter what season it is, campfires are a staple for any camping trip.

Sitting under the stars by a crackling fire has its appeal. From telling scary stories to roasting

marshmallows, campfires bring family and friends together. Campfires can also be very dangerous if

they are not handled with caution. Keep a shovel and bucket of water nearby, and don’t use any type of

flammable liquid to start your fire. Never leave children alone around a fire. Don’t burn dangerous

things like aerosol cans, pressurized containers, glass, plastic, or aluminum cans. When done be sure

your campfire is completely out and cool to the touch.

Week 30 Lightning. Lightning strikes in the United States about 25 million times each year. Although

most lightning occurs in the summer, lightning can strike at any time of year. The most important thing

to remember about lightning is that there is no safe place outdoors when a thunderstorm is nearby. If

you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. When you hear thunder, immediately move to

a safe shelter. If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby, immediately get off

elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks. Never shelter under an isolated tree or utility

poles. Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter and stay away from objects that conduct electricity.

Week 31 Travel Safety. Scammers, identity thieves, and fraudsters like to target areas with high tourist

activity. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself while away from home. Tell

your bank where and when you will be traveling. Before you leave for your trip, you should stop your

mail delivery. Smartphones stores sensitive information; you should set up a password to unlock it.

Avoid using public WiFi. Write down the emergency contact information for the area you are traveling

in, and remember to keep your friends and family posted on where you are.

Week 32 College Prep. First, learn what types of emergencies/hazards that can potentially affect you at

school and make a plan for them. Next you should build an emergency kit with the right supplies and

don’t forget the first aid kit. Work out a family communications plan so that you will know how to get in

touch with each other at any time. Discuss in advance where to go in case of a campus evacuation.

Schooling brings so many adventures; being prepared makes it that much easier to enjoy.

Week 33 Poison Control Centers. Poison Control Centers (PCCs) have provided vital health services to

the general public and health care professionals for over half a century. Put the national Poison Control

Center number, 1‐800‐222‐1222, on or near every home telephone, and save it on your cell phone. Calls

are free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Week 34 Active Shooter. Unfortunately, this is a subject we had to cover. I think it’s important to go

back and review this article. But the basics are Run, Hide, Fight.

Week 35 Predicting the Weather? Weather is a complex system and the atmosphere is prone to chaotic

behavior. Forecasters have come a long way over the years, but it’s still not perfect. You can use the

Internet and apps to monitor the weather. The key here is not to be surprised and get caught out in

dangerous weather conditions.

Week 36 Food Storage. Over the years it has been recommended that you store three days’ worth of

food for emergencies. But as past disasters have been analyzed, it has become clear that food resources

can be hard to get during the three months following a disaster. First and foremost, only store food

items that your family likes and will eat. On Clearwater County’s web page under the Emergency

Management tab you can download a useful Food Storage Guide.

Week 37 Water. At a minimum, store at least a two‐week supply of water for each member of your

family. Just as you are increasing your food storage to three months, you should work towards three

months of water. Keep in mind that a normal, active person needs about one gallon of water daily.

Individual needs may vary depending on age, health, physical condition, activity, diet, and climate.

Week 38 Disaster Cooking. You have started your three‐month food and water supply. Even without

your electric stove/oven, gas‐powered stove/oven, or microwave, you can still cook up a tasty meal. This

article covers different ways to feed your family during a disaster.

Week 39 Power Outages You know it’s going to happen; the power will go out. If properly prepared, you

may be able to stay at home and deal with these inconveniences for a few hours or even a few days.

There is no reason to be left in the dark.

Week 40 Volcanoes. In 1980 Mount St. Helens erupted, and our area was impacted by a lot of falling

ash. In our area, we could be affected again by falling ash from either the Cascade Range to the west or

the Yellowstone Caldera to the southeast. This article shows you how to deal with all that ash.

Our 52 Weeks of Preparedness project is down to its last three months. But we still have a lot more to

share.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Two‐way Radio Week 42

By Don Gardner


Can you imagine how you will communicate with your family during an emergency when no cell phones

are working? Could this even happen? Yes, it can, and it has, even here in Clearwater County. When

disasters occur, the public often loses several means of communicating all at once. If you remember

during the fires of 2015 the cell phone system was overloaded and many landlines didn’t work. First

responders rely on two‐way radios daily and when disasters strike, and so can we.

The are many times you can use two‐way radios with your family and friend like during a disaster, or,

more commonly, when camping, hunting, during ATV and snowmobile adventures, and between cars

when traveling. It may seem like an old fashion technology, but it is so reliable.

There are many types of radios you can use and each provides different capacities and expense. Today

we will cover four varieties that could work for you.

Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) radios are low‐power,

inexpensive handheld ‘walkie talkies,’ which can be used for short‐distance communications. Most of

these radios are sold as a combo sets with both the FRS and GMRS channels in one radio. You will find

them in the sporting goods section of stores. The packages often exaggerates and say they will work for

20‐50 miles or more. Generally, the actual range of FRS/GMRS radios will be significantly less than

advertised. A reliable range is considered to be line‐of‐sight communications. Things such as building,

hills, trees, etc., will severely limit your range. Typically you will see 0.5 ‐ 4 miles in our area.

These radios are not usually rugged or waterproof but they are one of the lowest cost radios available.

The FRS radios channels require low power radios. 0.5 watts up to 2 watts on some channels. You get

22 channels, and they are easy to use. No license is required to use an FRS radio.

GMRS radios share channels with FRS but allow for more power. 0.5 watts up to 50 watts on some of

the channels, which includes an additional eight repeater channels, for a total of 30 channels. You are

required to get a license from the FCC to use GMRS radios. However, this is quite easy. All you need to

do is google “GMRS license” and follow the FCC instructions. There is no test, just a payment of $70 to

the FCC, and that’s good for 10 years. This license will cover your whole family including kids, siblings,

grandparents, aunts, uncles, you get the point.

With GMRS you can use a handheld radio and the more powerful mobile radios. In the Orofino and

Lewiston area there are some GMRS repeaters set up that will greatly increase your range up to 20‐40

miles.

Citizen Band (CB) radios are still around and used in our area. You get 40 channels and depending on the

radio and your set up, you can expect 1 to 10 miles, or even more, when using single side band (SSB).

The range is determined largely by your location and the type of radio and antenna CB radios are still

commonly used by truckers and travelers, and operation does not require a license.

Multiple‐Use Radio Service (MURS) can experience a range of 2‐4 miles depending on the terrain and

obstructions. MURS Base Stations can reach up to 10 miles, and you can Increase that range with an

external antenna. Transmitting on the five MURS channels does not require a license and can be used by

the entire family. On MURS you can transmit voice or data.

Now, I did save the best for last. Amateur Radio, also known as Ham Radio.

Ham radio is different. Amateur radio operators communicate with each other in nearby places, across

the country, around the world or even with astronauts on the space station. They can send email, text,

and photos via radio, and even transmit TV signals. They can also use a cell phone like a ham radio!

Around the country Hams have put up hundreds of repeaters. Because of this, they can talk for 100s of

miles with a simple handheld radio. In our area, you could talk to Lewiston, Kamiah, Grangeville,

Spokane and beyond, and Hams using high frequency (HF) radios can talk around the world.

It's easier than you might think to get started in amateur radio. All it takes is a little study, and you can

be on the air in no time. Just take a 35 question exam, and answer at least 26 correctly, and you pass.

(Morse Code is no longer a requirement.) Our local ham club offers free classes. The next beginners class

will be November 16th and 23rd, 2019. Call my office for more information. (208‐476‐4064)

Speaking of the ham club, they meet the first Thursday of every month, 6:30 p.m., at 2200 Michigan Ave

in Orofino. Everyone is welcomed. There you can meet local amateur radio operators at all levels and

find answers for all the radios talked about in this article.

Ham radio is fun as well as an invaluable resource for when all else fails. Whether it’s severe weather,

natural disasters, power outages, or cellphone are out, ham radio has always worked.

Ham Radio is a great hobby. It will serve you well in times of need. Plus, it’s cheaper than you might

think. Once licensed you could buy your first radio for around $30.

There are over 760,000 licensed hams in the U.S., and it keeps growing. During times of crisis, when

modern communications fail, Amateur radio is there to fill in the gap.

Communications is so important, and even more so during times of disasters. It’s not hard to get started

in two‐way radio. You just need to do it.

###

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Boo Week 43

By Don Gardner


Halloween is here.

Every 31st of October children look forward to a fun Halloween night – the time when they get to dress

up as their favorite characters, knock on neighbors’ doors, and ask the age‐old question: “Trick or

Treat?”

Halloween should be an exciting time of year for children and their parents, so let talk about some

safety tips so you can be prepared for a fun Halloween night.

Costumes

When purchasing or making costumes be sure that they are light and bright enough to be clearly visible

to motorists. Add reflective tape to costumes that will glow in a car's headlights. Costumes should be

short enough to prevent kids from tripping and falling. Be sure their costume is fireproof. If purchasing a

costume, masks, beards, and wigs, look for the label Flame Resistant.

Keep costume accessories soft and flexible (for example, swords or knives). Choose disguises that don’t

obstruct vision, and opt for non‐toxic face paint instead of masks. Have kids carry glow sticks or

flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.

Getting the treats

Remind trick‐or‐treaters to be careful when crossing streets. They should walk on sidewalks, not in the

street. If there are no sidewalks, have them walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. They should

also look both ways before crossing the street.

Kids should stay in their own neighborhoods and stop only at well‐lit homes. They should never enter a

house unless they are accompanied by an adult.

Small children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween. Make sure an older sibling or

adult is with them.

Parents should examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before allowing children to eating

them.

The spooky house

If you set jack‐o’‐lanterns on your porch with candles in them, make sure that they are far enough out of

the way so that kids costumes won't accidentally be set on fire or better yet use a battery‐operated

candle or glow‐stick. Indoor jack‐o'‐lanterns should be kept away from curtains, decorations, and other

furnishings that could be ignited.

To keep homes safe for visiting trick‐or‐treaters, you should remove from the porch and front yard

anything a child could trip over such as garden hoses, toys, bikes and lawn decorations. Wet leaves

should be swept from sidewalks and steps.

Restrain your pets, so they do not inadvertently jump on or bite a trick‐or‐treater.

When driving

If you plan on driving through any residential neighborhoods with trick‐or‐treaters, use the utmost

caution, and drive slowly. Halloween is a time of excitement and anticipation for children. Remember

that adults may be so focused on keeping an eye on their children, they may forget to watch the road

for oncoming vehicles.

Watch for children darting out from between parked cars. Watch for children walking on roadways,

medians, and curbs. Enter and exit driveways and alleys very carefully.

Beware of cars transporting trick‐or‐treaters from house to house, pulling up to each driveway and

waiting while their children run to the door and back. If you are behind one of these vehicles, do not

pass it quickly or without carefully checking the area as you move forward slowly. The vehicle may block

your view of children that are running towards another house or across the street.

Community parties

Many groups have parties that makes it safer for the trick‐or‐treater. They are a great alternative from

going door to door. For example, the City of Orofino blocks off a part of Johnson Avenue on Halloween

for the “Rocking the Street” trick‐or‐treating event where the community provides the little ones with

tricks and treats. This Orofino Chamber of Commerce event is always a great hit. I know there are other

events out there, so check out your area and see what’s going on.

Halloween can be a lot of fun. Be safe and enjoy.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Stay Open Week 44

By Don Gardner


Let’s talk about what business can do to be better prepared. It’s a sad realization that around 40% of

small business never reopen after a disaster impacts them. Developing an emergency preparedness plan

is an important decision that you need to make as a business owner. Consider how a natural, human‐

caused or public health disaster could affect your employees, customers and workplace.

Though each situation is unique, any business or organization can be better prepared if it plans carefully,

puts emergency procedures in place, and practices for all kinds of emergencies.

Start by knowing the types of disasters that are most likely to have an impact on your business. If you

have been reading these articles you know that wildfire, flood, landslides and severe weather are what

tend to impact our area. You should also consider damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges,

electric power, etc. and let’s not forget about cyber‐attacks too.

While it’s impossible to plan for all possible disasters, a business should plan for all probable disasters.

Determine the greatest threats to your business, the likelihood, and the potential impact. Take each

high risk event and work out a plan to reduce or even remove that risk. For example, when planning for

a power failure, consider purchasing a back‐up generator to provide power to your building, computers,

and cash registers.

Consult with your insurance agent and learn what coverage is available and what precautions to take for

the disasters that may impact your business. If flooding is on your list, you should consider flood

insurance. Remember, many general policies do not cover flood damage.

The information a business stores on customers and employees, along with trade secrets, documents

and financial information, is the lifeblood of day‐to‐day survival and success. Unfortunately, it’s also the

meal ticket for hackers worldwide. By taking measures to protect your data and store it in more than

one capacity, your business will be more likely to recover your data from hackers and after disasters like

fires, floods, or power surges.

Your employees are your business’ most valuable asset. After a disaster it is possible that your staff will

need time to ensure the well‐being of their family members, but getting back to work is important too.

Take measures to ensure their safety before, during and after an emergency. Help them to build an

emergency survival kit. If an employee can take of their own needs first, then they will be more able to

report to work during a disaster.

Write a crisis communication plan. Detail how your organization plans to communicate with employees,

local authorities, customers and others during and after a disaster. Gather phone and email contact

information and be sure to update it regularly. Be ready and able to provide employees with information

on when, if and how to report to work following an emergency.

Your relationship with your community and outside agencies can strengthen your ability to protect your

employees and property and return to normal operations. Maintain a channel of communication with

community leaders, public safety organizations such as the police, fire, emergency medical services,

emergency management, utility companies, and others.

Working together with outside agencies can be beneficial because they can provide a wealth of

information to help you recover quickly from a disaster.

In all reality planning for your business is not much different then preparing for your own family. A good

resource would be the past articles from this 52 weeks of preparedness project. You can download them

at the Clearwater County’s web site under the Emergency Management page.

Plan to Stay in Business, because your success helps keep our community healthy!

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Winter Cold Week 45

By Don Gardner


During extremely cold weather or winter storms, staying warm and safe can be a challenge. Winter

storms bring cold temperatures, power failures, loss of communication services, and icy roads. To keep

yourself and your loved ones safe, you should prepare your home before a winter storm hits.

If you plan to heat your home with a wood stove, fireplace, space heater, or kerosene heater, be

extremely careful. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions as well as other home safety measures. For a

fireplace or wood stove, have your chimney or flue inspected and cleaned in the fall. Ask your local fire

department to recommend an inspector, or find one online. You will need one or more working smoke

detectors and a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Remember to test them monthly.

When using an electric space heater, do not place them within 3 feet of anything that may catch on fire,

such as drapes, furniture, clothing, or bedding, and never cover your space heater. Don’t place a space

heater on top of furniture or near water, and never leave children unattended near a space heater.

Make sure that the cord of an electric space heater is not a tripping hazard, and do not run the cord

under carpets or rugs. You should avoid using extension cords to plug in your space heater. If your space

heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it.

Remember you should always have a multipurpose, dry‐chemical fire extinguisher in your home.

Did you know your ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age? And older people are

more susceptible to health problems caused by the cold. If you are over 65 years old, place an easy‐to‐

read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently, and check the temperature of

your home often during the winter months.

Infants less than one year old should never sleep in a cold room because infants lose body heat more

easily than adults; and unlike adults, infants can’t make enough body heat by shivering. Provide warm

clothing for infants. and try to maintain a warm indoor temperature. If the temperature cannot be

maintained, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere.

Extreme cold can cause water pipes in your home to freeze and sometimes rupture. Keep the indoor

temperature warm. Improve the air circulation around indoor pipes. For example, open kitchen cabinet

doors beneath the kitchen sink to let warm air in and around the pipes. When very cold temperatures

are expected, leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continuously. Insulate any water lines that

run along exterior walls, so your water supply will be less likely to freeze.

If your pipes do freeze, do not thaw them with a torch. Instead, thaw them slowly by using a hair dryer

to warm the pipes. If you cannot thaw your pipes, or the pipes are ruptured, use bottled water or get

water from a neighbor’s home. This is where your emergency supplies you have been collecting will

come in handy.

Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand and fresh batteries. If the power goes out and you use a generator, be sure to only run it only outdoors. Keep it away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open. Be sure to have a Winter Survival Kit for Your Home. Keep several days’ supply of food, water, and

medicines that your family needs.

Stay aware of the current winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for

bulletins online or with your favorite app. Check to see that your neighbors are okay, particularly

seniors, disabled persons, or others living alone.

You can find more detailed information on some of these item in past articles. Download them from the

Clearwater County web page under the Emergency Management link.

Next week we will cover winter travel.

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in

only three months of the year. December, January, and February. As you stay cozy and warm this winter

season, be safe and be fire smart!

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Winter Driving Week 46

By Don Gardner


It seems like every winter there are news stories of people getting stranded in their car while driving

during bad weather. There have been many cases of people trapped for days in their vehicles after going

down the wrong road or even skidding off the road or over a bridge embankment.

Today let’s address how to be prepared for an emergency when traveling in your car or truck.

First, you can avoid many dangerous winter travel problems by planning ahead. Have maintenance

service on your vehicle as often as the manufacturer recommends. Replace windshield‐wiper fluid with a

wintertime mixture. Replace any worn tires, and check the air pressure in the tires.

During the winter, keep your gas tank near full. Think to always fill up when you reach half a tank.

If you must drive during a storm, take the following precautions. Before you head out, you should know

what the weather is going to be doing. Listen to the radio, or check the internet for reports of travel

advisories that have been issued. Use Idaho’s 511 service to see what the road conditions are. Avoid

traveling on ice‐covered roads and in low visibility conditions. If possible, postpone your travel plans

during extreme weather.

Let someone know where you are going, and what route you will take, and when you anticipate arriving

at your destination. If something happens, this person will know where to start a search. Don't leave the

house without a fully charged cell phone.

You should have supplies for your travels, so let’s build a survival kit for your car.

First, be sure you have a way to charge your cell phone. Carry jumper cables or a portable battery jump

starter. Have some flares or reflective triangles. Keep a flashlight with extra batteries and maybe some

glow sticks too. Have some basic tools like pliers, wrench, screwdriver, a knife, and a good ice scraper.

Prepare a first aid kit that has the extra items that you may need. A battery operated radio can be useful

when you don’t want to drain the car battery.

Stock some water, and non‐perishable food, and a can opener too. Maybe pack some canned food, dry

cereal, and protein rich foods like nuts and energy bars. If you have a baby or family member with

special needs, pack diapers and any special formula or food. Bring a large empty coffee can and trash

bags to use as an emergency toilet. You can store tissues, toilet paper, and paper towels inside. Have a

small can with waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water.

Carry tire chains and a small shovel to dig out snow. Cat litter or sand to pour on ice or snow for added

traction and a tow rope could be helpful too. Bring additional warm clothing, gloves, hat, and some

sturdy shoes. Have some blankets, sleeping bags, and hand warmers. Always have a road map of your

travel area (do not rely solely on cell phone and GPS mapping). And last but not least, have a brightly

colored red or orange cloth. You can store most of these items in a plastic trash bag in your trunk or

behind the seat of your pickup.

You should check and restock the winter emergency supplies in your car before you leave.

What to Do if You Get Stranded

Staying in your vehicle when stranded is often the safest choice. First, try to contact 911 and let them

know your location. Tie your brightly colored cloth to the antenna, or crimp it in a window or door as a

signal to rescuers, and raise the hood of the car (if it is not snowing). Move anything you need from the

trunk into the passenger area before your trunk freezes shut. Wrap your entire body, including your

head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers. Stay awake; you will be less vulnerable to cold‐related

health problems.

Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour. Make sure that snow is not blocking the

exhaust pipe; this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. While running the motor, opening

one window slightly to let in air. DO NOT fall asleep with the engine running.

Every so often move your arms, legs, toes, and fingers to keep blood circulation going and to stay warm.

Keep your seatbelt on. Be sure to keep hydrated, but do not eat unmelted snow because it will lower

your body temperature. Huddle with other people for warmth.

Do not abandon your vehicle. Stay inside your vehicle until help arrives. If you leave your vehicle, you

can become disoriented quickly in wind‐driven snow and cold.

This winter don't let a winter storm take you by surprise.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Until Help Arrives Week 47

By Don Gardner Clearwater County Office of Emergency Management

You Are the Help Until Help Arrives It could be an accident that you come upon or even a mass casualty incident. If someone is injured, the first few minutes could be critical in helping them survive a serious or life‐threatening injury. Would you know what to do until professional help arrives? Here are Five Steps to Help Until Help Arrives. 1: CALL 9‐1‐1 Call 9‐1‐1 as soon as you are able. If there is another person nearby, have them call 9‐1‐1 while you begin helping. You are 9‐1‐1’s “eyes and ears.” Always call, and give as much information as you can. Be ready to share ‐ Location of the incident. ‐ How responders should reach the site. ‐ Nature of the situation. ‐ Brief description of what happened. ‐ Number of people involved. ‐ Any obvious hazards to responders. ‐ Your name, phone number, and address. 2: STAY SAFE If you happened upon a scene, what would you do? Use your best judgement, specifically when it comes to your own personal safety. Ask yourself ‐ Do I feel safe at this spot? ‐ Should I leave and move to a safer location, or am I able so to stay and start providing care immediately? ‐ If I leave, can I take anyone with me? If it is dangerous for you and the injured to stay, consider safely moving them. There is no one right way to drag or carry someone, especially when alone. Look for other people or objects to help you. If nothing is available, try dragging the person from under their arms, approaching from behind/beneath the injured person, reaching under their arms, and grabbing one of their wrists in each hand (effectively crossing both their arms and yours over their chest) and then stand and walk backwards pulling them along. If they are conscious, check with them to see if moving them is hurting. 3: STOP THE BLEEDING Time is critical. Every minute there is uncontrolled bleeding decreases the chance of survival. Trust your judgment; if you walk up and think, “Wow, that is a lot of blood!”, then do something. Indications of life‐threatening bleeding include: ‐ Spurting/steady bleeding ‐ Blood is pooling ‐ Blood is soaking through clothes ‐ Blood is soaking through bandages ‐ Amputation ‐ Pale, shaky, confused victim. An average adult has between 9 and 12 pints of blood. Extreme blood loss can result in irreversible shock. This means that if a person loses about half of their body’s blood supply, no matter what anyone does to try to save them, death is unavoidable. You must get the bleeding under control as soon as possible. To stop severe bleeding, act quickly to apply pressure to the wound. Some things to keep in mind: ‐ You want to provide a barrier between you and the blood, if possible. Medical gloves are best. ‐ Do not use the same gloves or barrier on more than one person. ‐ If your barrier becomes blood soaked, replace it, but do not layer more things on top of it. ‐ You do not want bulky layers in between your hands and the

source of the wound because it decreases the effectiveness of the pressure. ‐ Correctly applied pressure may not be comfortable for the injured. Do not let up; hold pressure until EMS arrives. 4: POSITION THE INJURED The best position for the body is one in which the chest can expand fully and the airway is not being obstructed. Also, in the best position, the tongue cannot flop back into the individual’s throat, and blood or fluid does not end up in the lungs (aspiration), particularly in the case with someone with facial trauma. Someone who is awake will naturally assume the position that is best for them. Despite how it looks to you, let them self‐manage their airway by positioning their own body. If a person is not conscious, you can help by turning them on their side so their chest can expand, tilting the head to drain fluid away from the airway Moving an injured person always comes with some risk. To minimize the risk, support the head and neck, and do not move them any more than necessary. 5: PROVIDE COMFORT You can be of great value to injured and emotional survivors simply by offering comfort and support. No special skills are needed — just a calm and reassuring presence. First and foremost, ask before you do anything. If someone is conscious, do not assume they want help. Always start by introducing yourself and asking if you can help. Also, not everyone will want to talk, or be able to talk. When possible, let them lead the conversation. Use your best judgment when sharing information about the situation or people’s condition. Keeping an injured person warm provides comfort and addresses the issue of hypothermia. Witnessing a traumatic event or being a survivor may be more challenging for young children. If the event separates children from their family or immediate loved ones, it is important to reunite them with their family as quickly as possible. Life‐threatening emergencies can happen fast. You may be able to save a life by taking these simple actions. I want to thank the FEMA program “Until Help Arrives” I recommend you take the full online class at https://community.fema.gov/until‐help‐arrives Note, you should also learn CPR.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Holiday Safety

Part 1 Cooking and Shopping Week 48

By Don Gardner


Food plays a major part in holiday celebrations, and I know that everyone is safe in the kitchen right? But

just in case, here are some reminders.

Did you know that unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires? You should stay in the

kitchen while you're frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food,

check it regularly, and use a timer to remind you. Stay home while cooking, and sorry no naps when cooking.

Stay alert!

Keep anything that can catch on fire away from your stovetop, like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils,

paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels, or curtains. Keep the stovetop, burners, and oven clean. Avoid

wearing loose clothing when cooking. It can dangle and catch fire if it comes into contact with a gas flame or

electric burner.

If You Have a Cooking Fire

When in doubt, just get out. When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire, and call 9‐

1‐1 after you leave. If you do fight the fire, be sure others are already getting out, and you have a clear path

to the exit. If you have a grease fire in a pan, smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan.

Then turn off the burner. Do not move the pan. To keep it from restarting, leave the lid on until the pan is

completely cool.

In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from escaping. Do not

open until it cools and the fire is out. If you have a fire in your microwave oven, turn it off immediately and

keep the door closed until the fire is completely out. Unplug the appliance if you can safely reach the outlet.

Always, when in doubt call 9‐1‐1.

Children love to help in the kitchen, but they should always be supervised. To help protect children and

others from scalds and burns, keep all pot and pan handles pointed inward so they won’t be bumped by

someone walking by or grabbed by curious children.

If you use a turkey fryer, be sure to follow the instructions. Remember to use turkey fryers outdoors and a

safe distance from combustible materials. Never use a turkey fryer in a garage or on a wooden deck. Make

sure fryers are on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping, and never leave the fryer unattended.

Keep an all‐purpose fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire. If the fire is

manageable, use your all‐purpose fire extinguisher. If the fire increases, immediately call 9‐1‐1 for help.

Shopping safety

Shopping has never been easier or more convenient for consumers. But what about the bad guys who lay in

wait. Here are some basic guidelines you can use when working on that holiday shopping list.

Online Shopping

Use Familiar Websites. If you know the site, chances are it's less likely to be a rip‐off. Beware of misspellings

or sites using different domains like .net instead of .com, for example. These sites might look enticing, but

that's how they trick you into giving up your info. Example: no online shopping e‐retailer needs your Social

Security number or your birthday to do business.

Never buy anything online using your credit card from a site that doesn't have SSL (secure sockets layer)

encryption installed. You'll know when they do because the URL will start with HTTPS—instead of just HTTP.

Also an icon of a locked padlock will appear, typically to the left of the URL in the address bar or the status

bar down below; it depends on your browser.

Use a single card for all online purchases to minimize your risk to one account. Monitor your account

regularly for unauthorized purchases. Avoid using a debit cards online; if it’s compromised, scammers will

have direct access to your bank funds. Consider using a prepaid card that’s loaded with only enough balance

for your planned purchases. Any seller that wants a different kind of payment, like wired money, is a big red

flag.

Don’t shop online using public computers or networks. Libraries, food courts, and coffee shops are

dangerous places to do online business.

Keep your computer and browser up to date with the latest patches and software. Beware of phishing ads or

pop‐ups for “amazing” deals. If using sites like Craigslist, always meet the buyer or seller in a public place. Do

not invite them into your home. Before you meet a buyer or seller, let friends and family know where you

are going. If you ever feel like something is weird or just not right, trust your instincts.

It’s always best to shop local. Here are some tips.

Shop with a friend; there is safety in numbers. Shop before dark if possible. Avoid carrying large amounts of

cash; instead, pay for purchases with a check, or credit card. Keep cash and a wallet in a front pocket, and

carry purses close to the body. Immediately notify your credit card company if your card is lost, stolen, or

misused.

Keep a close eye on your children while shopping. Accompany them to the restroom – don’t let them go by

themselves. Teach them to go to a store clerk if they ever get separated from you, and be sure they know

their first and last name. If possible, leave children at home with a trusted babysitter.

Keep your vehicle’s doors locked and windows closed. Avoid leaving valuables in your car. Whenever

possible, place items out of sight, like in the trunk or under a blanket.

When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings. Don’t approach your car alone if

there are suspicious people in the area. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted by your cell phone while

walking to and from your vehicle. Have your keys ready and in hand. You will not waste time trying to find

them when standing outside your vehicle, and they can be used as a defensive weapon.

Common sense and awareness can go a long way toward helping you and your family stay safe this holiday

season.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Holiday Safety

Part 2 Tree, Lights, Candles & Week 49

By Don Gardner


The winter holidays are a time for creating wonderful memories. As we anticipate the joy of family

festivities, we should also remember to take preventive measures to keep the holidays safe and happy.

Here are some tips to help remind you how be safe.

Christmas Tree

When choosing a real tree, find one that is green and fresh. Fresh needles are hard to pull from a trees

branches. You should cut off about two inches off the trunk and put the tree in a sturdy water‐holding

stand. Keep the stand filled with water, and check often.

If you're going with an artificial tree, be sure to choose one that is fire‐resistant.

Whether it's a real or artificial tree, place it in a sturdy stand so that it's not in danger of falling over on

children and pets. Place the tree out of the way of traffic, and do not block doorways. Use thin guy‐wires

to secure a large tree to walls or ceiling, if needed.

Make sure your tree is at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, space

heaters, candles, or heat vents. Never use lit candles to decorate trees.

If your natural tree is dropping needles, dispose of it. Dried out trees are fire hazards and should not be

left in the home. After the season, recycle or discard the tree ‐ Never burn it.

Lights and Decorations

Always inspect lights before you hang and plug them in. Check for frayed wires, broken bulbs, damaged

sockets, and loose connections. Discard damaged sets, or repair them before using.

Do not overload electrical outlets or power strips. Use as few power cords as possible to prevent

overloading, and place cords away from walkways to prevent tripping. Cords should never be pinched by

furniture, forced into small spaces such as doors or windows, placed under rugs, located near heat

sources, or attached by nails or staples.

Stapling or nailing through electrical wires or extension cords may damage the wire or insulation, which

could cause electrical shock or fire.

Make sure that fragile glass ornaments that small children could mistake for candy‐ are placed high on

the tree or consider not using them. Make sure that tinsel is not placed on low limbs where it could pose

a choking hazard to small children.

Candles

Consider using electric candles. If you do use lit candles place them in a holder that will not tip. If you

place candles in a window, make sure they are clear of curtains or drapes. Place candles where they

cannot be knocked down or blown over. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can

burn, like decorations and wrapping paper. NEVER place lit candles on your Christmas tree. Extinguish all

lit candles when you leave the house or go to bed.

Holiday Traveling

Make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip. Plan your trip with scheduled rest stops and activities for

small children. Leave an itinerary with a friend so someone knows where you are. Don’t overload your

vehicle or obstruct your view with packages. Follow other vehicles at a safe distance.

Avoid a heavy meal before leaving on a trip to prevent sleepiness. Get a good night’s sleep before

starting on the road. ALWAYS BUCKLE UP!

Odds and ends

Before guests arrive for the holidays, check your smoke alarm batteries.

Never burn your tree or package wrappings in the fireplace.

Keep walkways clear of snow and ice to prevent injury from slips and falls.

Make sure you have an all‐purpose fire extinguisher in your home, and you know how to use it.

It’s our sincere wish that everyone has an enjoyable holiday season no matter how you celebrate. Just

be safe.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Stay Informed Week 50

By Don Gardner


Emergencies can be overwhelming and the influx of information even more so. It can be confusing to

determine where to find official and accurate information, or how to know if what you’re reading on

social media is true. Here are some ways to stay informed with facts before, during, and after an

emergency.

Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS)

IPAWS is the nation’s alert and warning infrastructure that combines multiple systems. IPAWS uses the

Emergency Alert System (EAS), Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), NOAA Weather Radio, and other

public alerting systems through a single interface platform.

During an emergency, federal, state, local, and tribal authorities can provide the public with life‐saving

information quickly with IPAWS.

EAS

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public warning system that broadcasters voluntarily

provide to state and local authorities for delivering important emergency information, such as weather

information, imminent threats, AMBER alerts, and local incident information that are targeted to

specific areas. You will remember it as the three buzzes and a message on TV and Radio.

WEAs

Wireless Emergency Alerts, or WEAs, are free messages sent directly to your cell phone, warning you

about severe weather, AMBER Alerts, and threats to your safety. You receive the alert based on which

cell tower you are near. Yes, this is that text alert that you weren’t expecting. You will not be charged for

the delivery of any WEA messages.

FEMA Mobile App

With this app you can receive real‐time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations

that you choose, learn emergency safety tips, locate open emergency shelters, and prepare for disasters

with a customizable emergency kit checklist, emergency family plan, and reminders. The app is available

for Apple and Android devices.

Fire

On the Idaho Fire Information website you will find Idaho’s Burn Permit System, Idaho’s Fire

Restrictions, Prevention, Education, and Smoke Information. http://www.idahofireinfo.com/

Incident Information System. InciWeb is an interagency all‐risk incident information management

system that provides the public a source of incident related information. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/

Air Quality Index tells you how clean or polluted your outdoor air is, along with associated health effects

that may be of concern. https://airnow.gov/

Earthquakes

The U.S. Geological Survey’s Earthquake Notification Service is a customizable system that can send you

automated notification emails when earthquakes happen in your area or a customized area to your

liking. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/ens/

Flood

Advance Hydrologic Prediction Service provides current river levels and predictions.

https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/?wfo=mso

USGS WaterAlert . Receive a cell phone text or email alerting you of river levels. Find the river you want

to monitor on the online map and click on the gauge marker. A pop up window will show the current

river conditions. At the bottom of the popup click on “Subscribe to WaterAlert” and you will be given a

choice of where you want the alert to be sent and at what river level you want to be notified.

https://maps.waterdata.usgs.gov/mapper/wateralert/

Social media never sleeps, but that’s what makes it such an effective way to get information in an

emergency. Be sure you’re following local news stations and local government agencies on Facebook,

Twitter, and other social networks to get important local information to keep your family and loved ones

safe. Find and follow Clearwater County’s government Facebook page.

Nextdoor is an online community that helps you stay in the know about what’s going on in your own

neighborhood. Neighbors can post comment and send private messages to one another. It is limited to

neighbors only seeing what their immediate neighbors and local public agencies post. It’s like Facebook,

but limited to your neighborhood.

Nextdoor can be used by anyone over the age of 18. Users must verify their address before being

accepted into a Nextdoor neighborhood. Public safety agencies are only allowed to post information;

they cannot see what a neighborhood is posting. So far, there are already 137 members in Clearwater

County. Nextdoor is free for all users. https://nextdoor.com/

There are so many ways to stay in the know. You just need to know where to look.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – Preparedness Plan Week 51

By Don Gardner


It’s time to build your Family Preparedness Plan

During this past year we have covered a lot of subjects, but I think this is the most important article, and

that is why I waited until now. You see, we needed to cover subjects like flooding, wildfires, and

evacuation, so you could know what might happen. Knowing this will help you build your family

preparedness plan.

Disasters and emergencies can affect people in any part of the United States at any time of the year,

swiftly and without warning. Even events such as a power outage or a job loss, can quickly have

disastrous effects for a family that is not prepared.

If a major disaster occurs in Clearwater County, citizens must be prepared to survive on their own for a

minimum of 72 hours. Family emergency planning can be the key to surviving emergencies.

This week let’s put some effort towards having a completed plan.

Get Informed

Go back and look over the past articles from this year. That way you can get a feel for what you may

need to plan for. Go to www.clearwatercounty.org, Then go to the Emergency Management Dept. and

click on “52 Weeks of Preparedness.” There you will find all the articles, and you can download them.

Hazards in our area include home fires, severe winter weather, flooding, landslides, wildland fires,

power outages, cyber attacks, lost communications, pandemic, and possible hazardous materials spills.

If your new to the area, talk with your neighbors and find out what’s most likely to happen in your

neighborhood.

Create a family disaster plan

Again, go to www.clearwatercounty.org and go to the Emergency Management Dept., and this time

hover over the “Emergency Preparedness” link. There you will see the Family Readiness Plan and other

plans that you can download. The Family Readiness Plan is an easy template to get you started. It is

advisable to add items to the plan particular to your family’s needs.

Work together as a family when creating your plan. Discuss what to do during an evacuation and your

evacuation routes. Plan how you could shelter‐in‐place. Plan how your family will contact each other

and select family meeting sites in case you become separated. Create a personal support network.

Include any school plans. You should know what your child's school has planned in the event of a

disaster. If your work or church has a plan (and they should… hint) also include that.

Make plans for how to take care of your pets during an event. Create a list of pet‐friendly hotels and

animal shelters in your area. Also, remember to include items for your pet in your disaster kit.

Plan for services to be unavailable such as gas, power, grocery, and communications like cell phones and

internet.

Review your home emergency supplies. Determine what additional training, equipment, and supplies

you may need.

Get your emergency plan down on paper with instructions for each situation. Make copies of financial,

insurance, and medical records to keep with your plan.

Before a disaster strikes, it would also be smart to review your insurance policy with your agent to make

sure you have the right coverage for risks in your area.

Make checklists, and assemble your disaster supplies

With each different type of disaster comes specific things you will want to do. Create a checklist of the

steps your family will need to take during a disaster. Have a checklist of things and supplies to support

your plan.

Assemble your disaster supplies and store them in a safe easy to reach place.

Practice and maintain your plan

Review your preparedness plan with your family at least once a year. Identify what new training,

equipment, or supplies you may need and update your emergency contact list.

Check the contents of your emergency kits every year and replenish. Re‐think your needs and update

your kit as your family needs change. Replace bottled water, ensure that all food is still safe to eat, and

check that medications have not expired.

Your plan should be specific to your family’s need. There is no right or wrong way.

We live in such a wonderful place. While we can’t control natural disasters, emergencies or unexpected

events, we can be prepared, and we can protect ourselves and our families.

52 Weeks of Preparedness – New Year’s Resolutions Week 52

By Don Gardner


It’s hard to believe that this year is almost over, and for us, it’s hard to imagine this is the last of our 52

preparedness articles. Oh, we did not cover everything. We just couldn’t. You see, no crisis situation is

going to look the same or require the same response. But by preparing in some core areas you can

overcome most of the challenges you may face.

Since its time for New Year’s Resolutions, here is a list of goals you can work on. Start by picking two or

three from the list and resolve to be more prepared in 2020.

Set aside a little extra money each week for your family emergency supplies.

Update (or start) your emergency preparedness plan.

Update your emergency contact numbers & emergency communications plan.

Teach your children what to expect and how to respond in an emergency.

Buy an extra two or three cans of goods when they’re on sale. This way you can slowly stock up your

emergency kit without breaking your budget.

Build or update your emergency kits and supplies.

During an internet and/or power outage, ATMs & credit card machines may not work. Consider

including some extra cash in your emergency kit.

Check your first aid kit. Take a look and see if any products are expired and need to be replaced.

Take a safety survey of your house, and make improvements. Do you have a fire extinguisher?

Protect your cyberspace. Stay sharp on the latest scams and keep your safeguards up to date. The end of

the year is also a great time to back up computer files & operating systems.

Learn to grow your own fruits & vegetables. Try something new in your garden. If you don’t have a

garden, learn how to grow a few of the essential crops.

Learn to preserve your own food. There’s nothing better than home prepared food. If your garden yields

a large quantity of food or there’s a super sale on produce at the market, take advantage of it all by

learning how to preserve the food long‐term. Canning and dehydrating are two methods we

recommend you start with if you haven’t done this before.

Invest in emergency lighting. If you’re caught in the dark, have some light sources accessible in different

places around your house.

Have a practice blackout long‐weekend. One creative way to prepare for a power outage is to have a

blackout weekend. This means that you keep your power turned off for 24 to 72 hours (or as long as you

want). Having one blackout weekend in the winter and one in the summer will open your eyes to what

needs you may have.

Do a Firewise survey around your property, and make necessary improvements.

Get certified or re‐certified in CPR and First Aid. If you can’t find a local class, you can get some training

online.

Get certified in amateur (ham) radio. This can be very beneficial in an emergency when phone lines and

cell phones aren’t working.

Get Involved ‐ Be an advocate and educator for safety and emergency preparedness within your work,

church, and community. Preparedness is contagious. Encourage your neighbors and family members to

start preparing as you are.

Download and review the 52 Weeks of Preparedness articles found on the Clearwater County website

under the Emergency Management department page.

Resolve to be Ready in 2020. No crisis situation is going to look the same to everyone. We should be

prepared for the future regardless of what it may hold. Remember, the first 72 hours or more, you may

be on your own before help arrives.

Finally, as we bring this project to an end, I want to thank the Clearwater Tribune and the Window on

the Clearwater for publishing the “52 Weeks of Preparedness” articles. As well I want to thank Kelly, my

editor. She always made the articles look good.

52 Weeks of Preparedness What’s in your gas tank?...52 Weeks of Preparedness – It Takes 3 or...

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