Thursday, December 31, 2009

Freezing Rain Advisory and Hazardous Weather

Freezing Rain Advisory
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE...UPDATED
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PENDLETON OR
511 AM PST THU DEC 31 2009


...A MAJOR WINTER STORM WILL MOVE INTO THE REGION TODAY BRINGING A MIX OF WINTRY PRECIPITATION ACROSS THE FORECAST AREA...


FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON-INCLUDING THE CITIES OF ...HEPPNER...PENDLETON...DAYTON...WAITSBURG...WALLA WALLA
511 AM PST THU DEC 31 2009

...FREEZING RAIN ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 9 AM THIS MORNING TO 4 PM PST THIS AFTERNOON...

* A BRIEF PERIOD OF SNOW AND OR FREEZING RAIN IS EXPECTED BY
MIDDAY TODAY BEFORE CHANGING TO RAIN THIS AFTERNOON.

* LESS THAN 1 INCH OF SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE EXPECTED. ICE
ACCUMULATIONS OF LESS THAN ONE QUARTER INCH ARE EXPECTED.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A FREEZING RAIN ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS. SLOW DOWN AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.


Hazardous Weather Outlook
HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PENDLETON OR
530 AM PST THU DEC 31 2009

ORZ041>044-049-050-501>506-WAZ024-026>030-501-502-011330-
EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF OREGON-NORTH CENTRAL OREGON-CENTRAL OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF OREGON-GRANDE RONDE VALLEY-WALLOWA COUNTY-FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-NORTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-SOUTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-
NORTHERN WHEELER AND SOUTHERN GILLIAM COUNTIES-JOHN DAY BASIN-OCHOCO-JOHN DAY HIGHLANDS-EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF WASHINGTON-KITTITAS VALLEY-YAKIMA VALLEY-LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF WASHINGTON-FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON-
NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS-EAST SLOPES OF THE CENTRAL CASCADES OF WASHINGTON-EAST SLOPES OF THE SOUTHERN CASCADES OF WASHINGTON-
530 AM PST THU DEC 31 2009

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR CENTRAL AND NORTHEAST OREGONAS WELL AS SOUTH CENTRAL AND
SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

WINTER MIX
EAST SLOPES OF THE CENTRAL CASCADES OF WASHINGTON, EAST SLOPES OF THE SOUTHERN CASCADES OF WASHINGTON, EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF WASHINGTON, KITTITAS VALLEY, YAKIMA VALLEY, LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF WASHINGTON, EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF OREGON, NORTH CENTRAL OREGON, CENTRAL OREGON, LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF OREGON, NORTHERN WHEELER AND SOUTHERN GILLIAM COUNTIES

SNOW
NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS, GRANDE RONDE VALLEY, WALLOWA COUNTY, NORTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON, SOUTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON, JOHN DAY BASIN, OCHOCO-JOHN DAY HIGHLANDS

FREEZING RAIN
FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON, FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON

A STRONG PACIFIC STORM WILL MOVE INTO THE REGION TODAY AND BRING A MIXTURE OF WINTRY PRECIPITATION TO THE FORECAST AREA. MOST AREAS WILL RECEIVE SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...OR SNOW CHANGING TO FREEZING RAIN...AND POSSIBLY ALL RAIN IN SOME AREAS. THIS STORM IS EXPECTED TO HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT TO THE ENTIRE FORECAST AREA. NUMEROUS WINTER STORM WARNINGS OR WINTER WEATHER ADVISORIES ARE IN EFFECT FOR TODAY THROUGH TONIGHT AND EARLY NEW YEARS DAY.

AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH 10 AM THIS MORNING FOR THE YAKIMA VALLEY WITH LIGHT WINDS AND CONTINUED TRAPPED POLLUTANTS IN THE AIR.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Winter Weather/Air StagnationAdvisory & Hazardous Weather Outlook

A WINTER STORM WILL BRING SNOW TO THE AREA TONIGHT AND WEDNESDAY. A LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM WILL MOVE INLAND THIS EVENING BRINGING SNOW TO MUCH OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST THROUGH WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL ACCUMULATIONS CAN BE EXPECTED IN AND AROUND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON.

Winter Weather Advisory

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PENDLETON HAS ISSUED A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW, WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 PM PST WEDNESDAY FOR THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON-INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...DAYTON...WAITSBURG...WALLA WALLA


* SNOW WILL BEGIN FALLING LATER THIS EVENING AND WILL LIKELY
CONTINUE THROUGH WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON.

* TOTAL SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 2 TO 3 INCHES CAN BE EXPECTED.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS ISSUED WHEN SNOW IS OCCURRING OR IS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP AND ACCUMULATE. TRAVEL MAY BE HAZARDOUS...ESPECIALLY ON BRIDGES...OVERPASSES...AND SECONDARY ROADS. MOTORISTS ARE URGED TO USE EXTREME CAUTION...AND SLOW DOWN TO ADJUST FOR RAPIDLY CHANGING DRIVING CONDITIONS AND REDUCED VISIBILITIES.


Air Stagnation Advisory

AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM PSTWEDNESDAY FOR THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON-TRI-CITIES...DAYTON...WAITSBURG...WALLA WALLA
* AIR QUALITY MAY DETERIORATE AS A RESULT

WEDNESDAY.

* AIR QUALITY MAY DETERIORATE AS A RESULT OF INCREASING AIR
POLLUTION LEVELS IN VALLEYS AND BASINS DUE TO STABLE
CONDITIONS AND VERY LIGHT WINDS LIMITING MIXING HEIGHTS AND AIR MOVEMENT.

* AIR STAGNATION WILL CAUSE THE ACCUMULATION OF PARTICULATE MATTER IN VALLEYS AND BASINS BELOW 3500 FEET.

* POOR AIR QUALITY MAY AFFECT PERSONS WITH RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS AND PERSONS ENGAGED IN STRENUOUS OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY INDICATES THAT DUE TO LIMITED MOVEMENT OF AN AIR MASS ACROSS THE ADVISORY AREA...POLLUTION WILL INCREASE. CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL AIR QUALITY AGENCY FOR POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS IN OUR AREA.


Hazardous Weather Outlook


THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR CENTRAL AND NORTHEAST OREGONAS WELL AS SOUTH CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON.

VERY LIGHT OR CALM SURFACE WINDS AND STRONG SURFACE BASED
TEMPERATURE INVERSIONS WILL MAINTAIN A STABLE AIRMASS AND STAGNANTAIR CONDITIONS WHICH WILL TRAP AIR POLLUTANTS IN THE BOUNDARY LAYER. AS SUCH AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE AREAS LISTED ABOVE THROUGH 4 PM PST WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON.

A LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM WILL MOVE INTO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST THIS EVENING BRINGING SNOW TO MUCH OF THE REGION. SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE POSSIBLE IN AND AROUND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON. THEREFORE, WINTER WEATHER ADVISORIES HAVE BEEN ISSUED
FOR THE NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS AND THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON.


FOR COMPLETE WEATHER INFORMATION AND COMPLETE LISTED CITIES GO TO WWW.WEATHER.GOV/PENDLETON

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Healthy Holidays - Ways to stay safe and Healthy

The holidays can be alternately fun and stressful. With so much going on, it's important to take some basic health and safety precautions. Here are our top tips:

Spread good cheer, not bad germs. Wash hands often to keep yourself from spreading germs and getting sick. Don't share drinks – and remind your kids to not share bottles of water or soft drinks, which increases the risk of colds, mono and flu.


Don't invite foodborne illness. Buffets and big meals are all part of the holiday cheer. But they can also lead to a higher risk of foodborne illness, which can have serious consequences. Remember these four simple steps:

  • Wash hands and surfaces often
  • Avoid cross-contamination
  • Cook foods to proper temperatures
  • Refrigerate foods promptly.

Manage stress. Keep a check on over-commitment and over-spending.


Don't drink and drive. Also, don't let anyone else drink and drive. Plan ahead for parties.


Monitor the children. Keep dangerous toys, foods and household items out of their reach. Make sure toys are used properly.


Prevent injury. The CDC reports that about 5,800 Americans go to emergency rooms during the holiday season for treatment of fall-related injuries sustained while decorating. Use step stools instead of furniture when hanging decorations indoors. When stringing or removing outdoor lights, use a ladder safely and stay off of a wet or snowy roof.


Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months. Keep candles away from children, pets, curtains and Christmas trees. Never leave fireplaces, stoves or candles unattended.


Don't ignore symptoms of serious illness. A 2004 study from UC San Diego revealed that more people die from heart attacks on Christmas Day and New Year's Day than any other days of the year. Researchers laid the blame on patients' reluctance to disrupt celebrations and seek help. For those suffering from a heart attack or stroke, every second counts. If you see or have any of the symptoms listed below, immediately call 9-1-1:

  • Chest discomfort or discomfort in other areas of the upper body.
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
  • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
  • Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

by Susan Struck

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Fireplace safety at Christmas

Picture yourself watching once of your favorite Christmas movies for a moment. Can you see the Christmas stockings hanging from the fireplace mantel? Fireplaces, stockings and the holiday season just seem to fit together, but are you giving thought to staying safe by the fire? Here are some fireplace safety tips just for the Christmas season.

1. When Santa Claus comes sliding down your chimney, will it be clean? Be sure you have a chimney sweep every year and stay safe. Chimney fires are a major cause of all home fires and in most cases, could be prevented with a simple cleaning.
2. Christmas trees and fireplaces must be kept separated. Nothing like the Christmas tree catching fire to ruin the holiday spirit. This tip also goes for space heaters as well.
3. Keep the Christmas stockings dry, but not burnt. Make sure you take down the stockings before lighting a fire in the fireplace. Yes, it may seem too obvious, but you would be surprised at how many fires are started this way.
4. Holiday candles on the fireplace mantel are another issue to be aware of. Be sure you have them enclosed in glass to protect everything from the flames.
5. Keep the tinsel and garland from hanging over the mantel and away from the fire.
6. Use the fireplace screen to prevent sparks and burning embers from popping out. A simple spark can easily create a disaster.
7. Watch out for the kids. The Christmas season is such a wonderful time of year for the kids and they love to be around the fireplace and all of the ornaments. Be sure to keep them safely away from the fire.

Fireplaces and the Christmas season are a great time of year. Be sure that you and your family stay happy and safe by following these simple fireplace safety tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards

Friday, December 18, 2009

Dense Fog Advisory in Effect

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PENDLETON, OR 1147 AM PST FRI DEC 18 2009 ..

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PENDLETON HAS ISSUED A DENSE FOG ADVISORY WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON PST SATURDAY.

A DENSE FOG ADVISORY MEANS VISIBILIES WILL FREQUENTLY BE REDUCED TO LESS THAN ONE QUARTE MILE. IF DRIVING, SLOW DOWN, USE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS AND LEAVE PLENTY OF DISTANCE AHEAD OF YOU.

A LAYER OF STRATUS CLOUDS WILL REMAIN TRAPPED BENEATH AN INVERSION ALOFT RESULTING IN AREAS OF DENSE FOG THIS AFTERNOON AND OVERNIGHT.
THE STRATUS CLOUD WILL INTERACT WITH THE TERRAIN AT ELEVATIONS MAINLY BETWEEN 1000 TO 2500 FEET. *

VISIBILITY OF ONE QUARTER OF A MILE OR LESS CAN BE EXPECTED AT TIMES. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

FOR ADDITIONAL WEATHER INFORMATION...CHECK OUR WEB SITE AT WWW.WEATHER.GOV/PENDLETON.

Friday, December 11, 2009

HINI VACCINATIONS


Appointments now available for the general public at the

Columbia County Public Health Department,

1010 S. Third Street, Dayton, WA 99328

Please call 382-2181 to schedule an appointment.


Winter Storm Watch in Effect

WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING.

A PACIFIC STORM SYSTEM WILL SPREAD A WINTER MIX OF PRECIPITATION OVER EASTERN OREGON AND SOUTH CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PENDLETON HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WATCH WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING.

PRECIPITATION WILL BEGIN IN THE SOUTHERN HALF OF OREGON LATE THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING THEN WILL SPREAD INTO NORTHEAST OREGON AND SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON LATE TONIGHT. A STATIONARY FRONT WILL SET UP ALONG THE BLUE MOUNTAIN FOOTHILLS...FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF HEAVY SNOW SATURDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT. * THE MAIN EFFECT FROM THIS STORM SYSTEM ALONG THE BLUE MOUNTAIN FOOTHILLS WILL BE HEAVY SNOW...ALTHOUGH THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SLEET AND FREEZING RAIN. * 4 TO 7 INCHES OF SNOW IS POSSIBLE LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY MORNING ALONG THE BLUE MOUNTAIN FOOTHILLS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A WINTER STORM WATCH IS ISSUED WHEN THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW...SLEET...OR ICE ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL. CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE LATEST FORECASTS. FOR ADDITIONAL WEATHER INFORMATION...CHECK OUR WEB SITE AT WWW.WEATHER.GOV/PENDLETON.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

By the Numbers: Candle Fires

The holiday season is here and with the increased usage of seasonal decorations, it is important to focus on candle fire safety. On average, one home candle fire is reported every 34 minutes. In fact, Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve are the top four days for home candle fires respectively. In Washington State, there were 133 fires started by candles in 2008 that caused $2.6 million in damages and 63 fires so far this year that have cause $1.5 million in damages.

“Set a good example for young children by using matches, lighters, and fire carefully. If you choose to use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass or ceramic holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down,” says State Fire Marshal Mike Matlick.

The Office of State Fire Marshal offers the following candle safety tips and facts:

· Use candles only in rooms where there is a responsible adult awake to control and oversee the flame. Falling asleep is a factor in 12% of home candle fires and 26% of the associated deaths.
· Do not use candles in sleeping areas. Almost 40% of home candle fires begin in the bedroom.
· Keep candles away from combustibles. More than half of all candle fires start when something that could burn, such as furniture, Christmas trees, decorations, window blinds, or curtains, is too close to the candle.
· Keep candles up high, out of reach of children. Young children and older adults have the highest death risk from candle fires.
· Never leave burning candles unattended. In 20% of candle fires, the candles are unattended or abandoned.
· Never put lit candles on a Christmas Tree. In December, 13% of home candle fires begin with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Winter Weather Information

The National Weather Service issues outlooks, watches, warnings and advisories for all winter weather hazards. Here’s what they mean and what to do. Use the information below to make an informed decision on your risk and what actions should be taken. Remember to listen to your local officials’ recommendations and to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest winter storm information.

OUTLOOK: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2-5 days.
Stay tuned to local media for updates.
WATCH: Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36-48 hours.
Prepare now!
WARNING: Life-threatening severe winter conditions have begun or will
begin within 24 hours. Act now!
ADVISORY:: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant
inconveniences and may be hazardous. If you are cautious,
these situations should not be life threatening.



Stay Informed!
Electronic equipment available to receive weather information/NOAA
(Weather Radio, Radio, TV, Pager, Cell Phone, Two-Way Radio)



When Caught in a Winter Storm


OUTSIDE:

Find Shelter

  • Try to stay dry.
  • Cover all exposed body parts.

No Shelter

  • Build a lean-to, wind break or snow cave for protection from the wind.
  • Build a fire for heat and to attract attention.
  • Place rocks around the fire to absorb and reflect heat.

Melt Snow for Drinking Water

  • Eating snow without melting it will lower your body temperature.

IN A VEHICLE

Stay in vehicle

  • You will become quickly disoriented in wind driven snow and cold.
  • Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat.
  • Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked

Be visible to rescuers

  • Turn on the dome light at night when running the motor.
  • Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to the antenna or door.
  • After snow stops falling raise the hood of your car to indicate you need help.

Exercise

  • From time to time, move arms, legs fingers and toes vigorously to keep blood circulating and to keep warm


INSIDE

Stay inside

  • When using alternate heat from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc..use fire safeguards and properly ventilate.

No heat

  • Close off unneeded rooms.
  • Stuff towels or rags in cracks and under doors.
  • Cover windows at night.
  • Eat and drink. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
  • Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Removelayers to avoid overheating, perspiration and subsequent chill.


AVOID OVEREXERTION, such as snow shoveling , pushing a car or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor can cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill or hypothermia.

Exposure to cold can cause frostbite or hypothermia and become life-threatening. Infants and elderly people are most susceptible. Freezing temperatures can cause severe damage to citrus fruit crops and other vegetation. Pipes may freeze and burst in homes that are poorly insulated or without heat.

Wind Chill is not the actual temperature but rather how wind and cold feel on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from the body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature.
Animals are also affected by wind chill; however, cars, plants and other objects are not.

Frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by extreme cold. A wind chill of -20° Fahrenheit (F) will cause frostbite in just 30 minutes. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately!

Hypothermia is a condition brought on when the body temperature drops to less than 95°F. It can kill. Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. Take the
person’s temperature. If below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately!

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Keep the Home Fires Burning…in the Fireplace

As temperatures drop, the threat of home fires rises due to the increased use of alternative heating sources, such as space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves. While these alternative methods of heating are certainly acceptable, they are also a major contributing factor in residential fires.

Fire departments in Washington State reported that approximately half of all home heating fires occur during the winter months. Heating equipment was involved in over 1,300 structure fires in 2008, resulting in two fire deaths and nearly $6.9 million in property loss. “Many of these fires can be prevented. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the fire risks when heating with wood and solid fuels,” says State Fire Marshal Mike Matlick. “By educating themselves about the equipment and following some simple home heating tips, residents can help prevent fires.”

Fireplaces and Wood Stoves –
Be sure the fireplace or stove is installed properly. Wood stoves should have adequate clearance (3 feet) from combustible surfaces and proper floor support and protection. Have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.
Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening, to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out and unwanted material from going in. Keep flammable materials away from your fireplace mantel.
Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. Allow ashes to cool and dispose of them in a metal container.

Space Heaters –
Be sure your heater is in good working condition. Inspect for cracked, frayed or broken plugs or loose connections and exhaust parts for carbon buildup. Be sure the heater has an emergency shut off in case it is tipped over.
Space heaters need space. Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
Never use fuel burning appliances without proper room venting, burning fuel can produce deadly fumes. Use ONLY the fuel recommended by the heater manufacturer.
Plug power cords only into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.

Protect Your Home –
Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home - when one sounds, they all sound. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
Install and maintain a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.

For more information on home heating safety, visit the Office of State Fire Marshal website at
www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/firemars or the United States Fire Administration site at www.usfa.dhs.gov

Thursday, November 12, 2009

H1N1 Vaccination Appointments

HINI
VACCINATIONS

Appointments available at
Columbia County Public Health Department,
1010 S. Third Street,
to receive the H1N1 influenza vaccine.


For the following target groups only:
· Pregnant women
· Health care and emergency services workers
· All children age 6 months to 24 years of age
· Persons age 25 to 64 with chronic health conditions
· Parents and caregivers of children under 6 months of age



Supply of vaccine is limited at this time.
Please call 382-2181 to schedule an appointment for these groups only!

Thank You.

Friday, November 6, 2009

How to Shelter-in-Place


Shelter-In-Place

If there is a chemical emergency or hazardous material release, you may be better protected in your home or car than trying to evacuate. Shelter-in-place protects you from the most toxic vapors as the cloud passes.

Home
Stay inside and Shelter-In-Place
Work or School
Stay inside and Shelter-In-Place
Outdoors
Go into a building or vehicle and Shelter-In-Place
Parked
Shelter-In-Place. Do not start the engine! Close windows, vents: turn off AC or heater.
Tune your radio to KONA Radio 105.3 FM or 610 AM.
Driving
Continue driving unless directed otherwise. Close windows, vents; turn off AC or heater.
Tune your radio to KONA. If your vehicle stalls, Do not start the engine. Shelter-In-Place

· Go inside immediately and bring pets indoors with you.
· Close and lock all doors and windows. Make sure they are closed tightly.
· Shut off all fan devices, ventilation systems, and any system that circulates air.
· Close the damper to your wood stove or fireplace if it's not in use.
· Go to the room you have selected to Shelter-In-Place. If possible, this should be a small room with few or no windows, and doors only from the center of the house or building.
· Seal this room off quickly, using duct tape and plastic sheeting to close off ventilation systems, air or fan vents, doors, windows, and other outlets. Use wet towels to seal the bottoms of all doors. If necessary, use wet washcloths to cover your nose and mouth.
· Monitor your radio or TV for Emergency Alert System messages and further instructions.
· Do not make unnecessary phone calls. Tying up telephone lines prevents emergency crews from using them. If you have an elderly neighbor or know someone who may need assistance, quickly make that call.
· Stay inside in your selected area until you receive the "all clear" signal. This will be announced on the radio and TV.
· After the "all clear" announcement, open all windows and doors, and go outside until the building has been well aired.

How to Make a Shelter-in-Place Kit

Be prepared for an emergency such as a chemical agent incident or hazardous materials accident near your home. Make your Shelter-in-Place Kit now so that you can seal your shelter immediately if your local officials instruct you to shelter-in-place.The basics: Store them in your shelter room.



What you will need:



  • A large bucket (and another container if needed) with lid to hold your supplies


  • Pre-cut and labeled plastic sheeting to cover doors, windows, vents and inset cabinets, mirrors, electrical outlets and switches, etc. (Make sure you cut the plastic at least six inches larger than openings so you can tape it to the wall or floor.)


  • Duct tape (a couple of rolls) to cover smaller openings and cracks that can’t be covered with plastic sheeting and to tape plastic sheeting to walls, ceiling, floor and doors.


  • Extra plastic sheeting in case the pre-cut sheeting tears or you need more.


  • Scissors to cut the tape and sheeting


  • A radio with extra batteries


  • Bottled water (at least one gallon per person)


  • Toilet tissue (The bucket can be used as a toilet.)


  • A large plastic bag for any contaminated clothing (Seal it with the duct tape.)


The last-minute additions:



  • Make a list of these items and put it in a prominent place so you can find it and the items quickly on your way to your shelter room.


  • A cordless or cellular phone, if you have one


  • Any special health and safety items you can’t store in advance but would need if you have to stay in your shelter for several hours, such as medications and eye glasses


  • Pets


Items you may need or want (depending on who will be in your shelter):


Put any of these or other items you feel you’ll need or want with the basics in your shelter room now. Don’t delay taking shelter to search for them. • Baby supplies (diapers, formula, etc.)• Pet supplies• Pillows, blankets• Toys, books, magazines, puzzles, etc.• Snacks with a long shelf life.• Change of clothing for each person in your shelter.



Ready, Set, Act:


Be Ready. Have your Shelter-in-Place Kit Set in your shelter room. Act immediately if instructed to shelter-in-place. Remember, you won’t need to stay in your shelter for more than a few hours.

Monday, November 2, 2009

H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic for Pregnant Women
Thursday, November 5th, 2009
Columbia County Health Department
1010 S. 3rd Street, Dayton, WA
Call 382-2181 to schedule an appointment

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

H1N1 (Swine Flu) and Seasonal Flu

Arm yourself against the seasonal and H1N1 (Swine) flu.This year there are two types of flu to protect against, the seasonal and H1N1 strains. Both require their own vaccine, and certain groups of people should get one or both of these vaccines. Help protect yourself from seasonal flu with a flu vaccination. Everyone should get a seasonal flu shot, but it’s especially important for:

Children 6 months old up to their 19th birthday

Anyone 50 or older

Anyone with a chronic health condition

Pregnant women

Health care workers

H1N1 (Swine) Flu and the Seasonal flu aren’t really that different. A lot of what you already know about the seasonal flu applies to the H1N1 flu (swine flu). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people recover from the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu on their own, without medical attention. .The seasonal flu vaccination does not protect against the 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) virus. An H1N1 vaccine has been developed and approved.

Because of the limited supply of H1N1 vaccine, the CDC has established a list of which groups should get the vaccine first. Get up-to-date information to help protect yourself and your family during this outbreak, go to cdc.gov to view a list of frequently asked questions, health guidelines, and symptoms to watch for.

Information provided by Kaiser Permanente

Friday, October 2, 2009

National Fire Prevention Week Oct 4-10, 2009

Monday, October 5th, 8:30 - 2:00 - Dayton Elementary School

Columbia County Fire District 3 will be hosting a fire safety day for the Dayton School Children grades K-4 on Monday, October 5th, 8:30 - 2:00 near the bus staging area.

Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned!


Testing the water before putting a child in the bath may sound like common sense. Wearing short or close-fitting sleeves when cooking on the stovetop may show foresight. This and other simple actions may be all it takes to prevent devastating burns.


Olympia, WA 2009 — Once a child touches a hot stove, as the cliché goes—he learns his lesson, stay away from a hot stove. This cliché does not take into account the pain and suffering from burns and burns should not be part of the learning process.


That’s why State Fire Marshal Mike Matlick is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for Fire Prevention Week 2009 – October 4-10 – to urge Washington residents to “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.” This year’s campaign focuses on ways to keep homes fire safe and prevent painful burns. Additionally, fire safety educators will be teaching local residents how to plan and practice escape from a home in case a fire occurs.
The statistics are staggering. Based on a five-year average, approximately 5 people die in fires each month in Washington State.



“The most common types of burn injuries result from fire or flame burns, scalds and contact burns,” said State Fire Marshal Mike Matlick. “Burns are painful and can result in serious scarring and even death. When we take extra caution in our homes to ensure that the curling iron is out of children’s reach or pot handles are turned away from the edge of the stove, such injuries are entirely preventable. Keeping our homes safe from fire and preventing devastating burn injuries is a healthy change we can make happen.”


By following simple safety rules, you can “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.”


  • Keep hot foods and liquids away from tables and counter edges so they cannot be pulled or knocked over.

  • Have a 3-foot “kid-free” zone around the stove.

  • Never hold a child in your arms while preparing hot food or drinking a hot beverage.

  • Be careful when using things that get hot such as curling irons, oven, irons, lamps, heaters.

  • Install tamper-resistant receptacles to prevent a child from sticking an object in the outlet.

  • Never leave a child alone in a room with a lit candle, portable heater, lit fireplace or stove, or where a hot appliance might be in use.

  • Wear short or close-fitting sleeves when cooking.

  • Set your hot water temperature no higher than 120 degrees.

  • Install anti-scald valves on shower heads and faucets.


Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 85 years, fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Dayton School District Evacuation Drill










































































September 30th, 2009
Columbia County Emergency Management has been working collaboratively with the Dayton School District, Columbia County Fire District 3, Columbia County Sheriff's Office, the Columbia County Commissioners and Crisis Management Consulting to update the Columbia County School Emergency Plan.


After many months of work, Columbia County Schools have an up to date School Emergency Plan. A video containing emergency instructions and evacuation procedures was made for staff members and the community. The video will be made available to the community Fall, 2009.

On September 30th, the Dayton Public Schools held their first evacuation drill using the new procedure's. Columbia County Emergency Management, Columbia County Fire District 3 and the Columbia County Sheriff's Office also participated. The drill was a success.

WSEMA/OEMA September 14-17, 2009

Washington State Emergency Management Association (WSEMA) partnered with Oregon Emergency Management Association (OEMA) on a very successful conference which took place on Sept. 14 – 17, 2009 for Northwest emergency managers and continuity planners.

Columbia County Emergency Management participated in this conference which provided classes such as:
Dealing with Stress in Responding to Crisis Issues
Facing Catastrophe Together: Exploring Pacific Northwest Collaboration.
Public/Private Partnerships in Oregon and Washington.
Who Depends on You? A Public Education Campaign that Moves People from Intention to Action
Social Media: From Definition to Deployment.
Washington's Statewide Resource Management Project.
FEMA Update on National Response Framework, NIMS Requirements, PREPCAST, LLIS.
Flood Fight Design, Planning and Methods Overview.
Global Climate Change - New Planning for Emergency Management.
National Weather Service Update: What's Ahead for the Coming Winter.

We look forward to implementing the learned skills and sharing the ideas we obtained during this conference.