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EMERGENCY SITUATIONS YOU MAY ENCOUNTER

This page is dedicated to helping you prepare in an Emergency Situation

before and after ~ planning & resolving

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Pandemic Influenza

A Pandemic is a worldwide disease outbreak. An influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza, a virus emerges and there is little or no immunity in humans. It spreads easily from person to person. maybe mild, moderate, or very severe even leading to death. If a pandemic occurs it will likely last for several months or longer. It will cause changes in our society, such as schools, work, transportation, and other public services. All social distancing events would shut down to prevent the further spread of the disease. Your local provider should supply information on what strain is going around.

To be prepared for this, contact your local health departments whom encourage families to:

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  • Adopt work/school procedures that encourages sick employees/students to stay home.

  • Anticipate how to function with a significant portion of your work force/school population absent due to illness or caring for someone who is ill.

  • Practice good health habits, including eating a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get lots of rest. In addition, take common health steps to stop the spread of germs including frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and stay away from others as much as possible when either are sick.

  • Stay informed about pandemic influenza and be prepared to respond.

  • HAVE A PLAN: stock up on all your supplies especially water and food.

  • Plan for every member of your family, current medical problems, prescriptions and/or all allergies.

  • If the disease is wide spread, stay home, shelter in place. Anticipate that all stores may be closed and food and water may be hard to get.

  • HOSPITALS WILL BE OVERFLOWING AND YOU MAY BE ON YOUR OWN TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS.

WILD LAND FIRES

Before a fire

To prepare for wildfires, you should:

  • Mark the entrance to your property with address signs that are clearly visible from the road.

  • Keep lawns trimmed, leaves raked and the roof and rain gutters free from debris such as dead limbs and leaves.

  • Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside your residence at least 30 feet away from structures and wooden fences.

  • Create defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet around your residence.

  • Beyond 30 feet, REMOVE dead wood, debris and low hanging trees or scrub branches.

  • Landscape your property with fire resistance plants and vegetation to prevent fire from spreading quickly. For example, hardwood trees and more fire resistance than pine, evergreen or fir trees.

  • Make sure water sources, such as hydrants, ponds, swimming pools, and wells are accessible to the fire department.

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1. Wood roof: Use metal or tile, stone, brick and metal to protect your residence. The chimney should be at least  3 feet above the roof. Remove all branches hanging above and around the chimney. No tree branches should be touching your house.

2. Roof opening: Cover & close all exterior vents, attics and eaves with metal mesh screens no larger than 6 millimeters or 1/4 inch to prevent debris from collection and to help keep sparks out.

3. Roof debris: always keep your roof and gutter clean.

4. Skylights & windows: Don't use plastic, use double pane or tempered safety glass & close and use fire-resistant draperies for added window protection.

5. Spark arrester (arrestor): use spark arresters on chimney. Have chimney, wood stoves and all home heating systems inspected and cleaned annually by a certified specialist.

6. Rain gutters: Keep your gutters clean of debris.

7. Siding: Use some sort of stone or metal siding.

8. Wood piles: Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your residence.

9. Porch & deck accessories: Place combustible patio furniture inside.

10. Patio furniture: Place inside your home or garage.

11. Deck boards: Use fire proof material.

12. Deck debris: Keep your decks free of debris.

13. Under the deck: Close up the underside of your decks.

14. Flower boxes: Use metal boxes.

15. Vehicles: Back you car in the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of escape. Close garage windows and doors, but leave them unlocked. Disconnect automatic garage door openers.

16. Garbage cans & recycle bins: Use cans with tight fitting lids & place newspaper bins inside your home.

17. Wooden fences: Maintain fences & build at least 5 ft away from your home.

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Follow local burning laws. Before burning debris in a wooded are, make sure you notify local authorities, obtain a burning permit and follow these guidelines:

  • Use an appropriate container with a lid or covering. 

  • The fire breathing holes no larger than 3/4 inch.

  • Create at least a 10-foot clearing around the container before burning debris.

  • ALWAYS have a fire extinguisher or a garden hose on hand when burning.

 

During a wildfire

If a wildfire threatens your home and time permits, take the following precautions:

  • Shut off gas at the meter or turn off propane tanks. Remember only a qualified professional can safely turn the gas back on.

  • Seal attic and ground vents.

  • Connect garden hose to outside taps. Placing lawn sprinkler on the roof near and near ground fuel tanks.

  • Saturate the roof.

  • Wet or remove shrubs within 15 feet of residence.

  • gather fire tools such as rakes, axes, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket and shovel.

  • Shut all doors and roll up windows.

  • Leave the key in the ignition and the car doors unlocked.

  • Open fire damper. 

  • Close fireplace screens.

  • Close windows, vents, doors. blinds or noncombustible window coverings and heavy drapes, but remove flammable drapes and curtains.

  • Move flammable furniture into the center of the residence away from windows and sliding glass doors.

  • Close all interior doors and windows to prevent drafts.

  • Place valuables in water tight containers then place them in or by water on a pool or pond. 

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If advised to evacuate:

  • Do so immediately.

  • Choose a route away from the fire hazard.

  • Watch for changes in the speed and direction of the wind, fire or smoke. 

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HOUSE FIRE

Before a Fire

  • Make sure home is free of unnecessary combustible materials.

  • Do not store flammable liquids inside the home.

  • Do not run wires under carpets or rugs.

  • Do not Store matches or cigarette lighters in children's reach. 

  • Do not leave cooking unattended.

  • If you smoke, do not smoke in bed or in other places where you may fall asleep. Also have many large ashtrays in the home.

  • Have 2 avenues of escape. Always have two ways out of every room.

  • Have a certain place to meet so no one tries to go back into a burning building to look for someone needlessly. 

  • Have fire extinguishers near the kitchen and the garage.

  • Have escape ladders for all windows higher than 8 feet on the ground.

  • Install a smoke detector in every bedroom, and every hallway outside of a bedroom on every level of the house.

  • Test the smoke detectors monthly. Change the batteries in the smoke detectors in the Fall when you change your clocks from daylight savings time.

  • Plan and practice a family fire drill on the first of each month.

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During a fire

  • If you are outside stay outside do not return for anything.

  • Do not re-enter the building until appropriate authorities have given permission.

  • If you are inside get out immediately. Go to the nearest house or building and call 911 to report the address and type of fire. Listen to and follow instructions.

  • Then go to the family meeting place.

  • If you are inside and have time, make sure everyone is out.

  • If you are in a closed room or office, do not open the door without first feeling the door or door nob. If it is warm or hot do not open it, but unlock it to help rescue or fire personnel.

  • If there is smoke, get under the smoke, crawling is the best method and get out of the building.

  • If you cannot use the door or other means of escape to exit, and there is smoke, use and roll your clothes, sheets, towels, etc. place where the smoke is coming in.

  • If there is too much smoke, then cover your nose and mouth to keep from inhaling the smoke.

  • Go to the window and yell or blow a whistle to get someone's attention.

  • If you see someone on fire, use a coat or blanket, but do not use your bare hands to smother the flames.

  • Watch to see that nobody goes back inside to rescue anything or anyone. 

  • If possible, remember to turn off the gas and electricity from outside the house.

  • If in a public building know two ways out.

  • If & when you hear a fire alarm, immediately exit the building regardless of what you are doing.

  • Follow the established evacuation instructions.

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What you can do for yourself

  • There are things you can do to cope with traumatic events.

  • Understand that your symptoms may be normal especially right after the trauma has occurred.

  • keep to your usual routine.

  • Make the time to resolve your day-to-day conflict so they do not add to your stress.

  • Do not turn away from situations, people & places that remind you of the trauma.

  • Find ways to relax and be kind to yourself.

  • Turn to family friends and clergy for support and talk about your experiences and feelings with them.

  • Participate in leisure and recreational activities.

  • You need to know that you cannot control everything.

  • You need to know that you may need professional help.

 

What you can do for your child.

  • Let your child know that it is okay to feel upset when something bad or scary happens to them.

  • Encourage your child to talk about feelings and thoughts without making judgments.

  • Return to daily routines as soon as possible.​​​

WINTER STORMS

Before a storm

  • Arrange for emergency heat supply in case of power failure.

  • Prepare auto, battery-powered equipment, food, heating fuel and other supplies.

  • Prepare a car winter survival kit. Which includes the following items: Blankets or sleeping bags, flares, high energy foods (candy, nuts, raisins), first aid kit, flashlight ,extra clothing, knives, compass, candles and matches, water, maps, jumper cables, tow chain, shovel, windshield scrapers and paper and pen to leave a note in case you evacuate your car.

  • Keep car fuel tank above half full.

 

During and After the Storm

  • At home - stay in your house.

  • Use your disaster supply kit.

  • Avoid travel

  • Dress warmly; wear multiple layers of protective loose clothing, scarves, mittens, hood/hats.

  • Cover your mouth and nose to protect the lungs from extremely cold air.

  • Avoid overexertion's. Shoveling snow or freeing stuck vehicles can be extremely hard work. 

  • Don't over do it. Heart attacks are a major cause of death during and after winter storms. 

  • Beware of the chill factor if winds are present.

  • Be prepared for isolation at home.

  • Make sure your supplies last a week/two in case a storm isolates you and it's impossible for you to leave.​​

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If trapped in your car

  • Stay in your car for visibility and warmth. Do not try and walk out.

  • Use a candle for warmth.

  • Run the motor for only 10 minutes each hour for heat with rear windows open slightly for ventilation.

  • Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

  • Change positions frequently.

  • Stay alert.

  • Do not let all occupants of the car sleep at once.

  • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. symptoms are: Dull headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, chest pain, confusion, impaired judgment, and irritability, paranoia, erratic mood swings, in worst cases, loss of consciousness and then death.

  • Most susceptible are:

  • Babies:

  • Infants cannot express signs and symptoms so there crying can be misinterpreted as discomfort.

  • Smokers: Chronic smokers have a higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning do to a weaker respiratory system. Signs and symptoms of poisoning may be confused with side effects of smoking and neglect.

  • Individuals who drink often: Those who abuse alcohol tend to be desensitized towards signs and symptoms. Since alcohol induced slumber and is very deep, death by carbon monoxide poisoning while sleeping is a lot higher in those who often drink heavily.

  • Individuals who have heart or respiratory problems: Since many signs of carbon monoxide poisoning coincides with heart or respiratory symptoms people who always suffer from one of the latter two conditions may be at more risk.

 

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THUNDER STORMS & LIGHTENING

Protect yourself

  • Get inside a home or large building when a storm approaches.

  • Stay indoors and don't venture outside unless absolutely necessary.

  • Stay away from open doors, windows, fireplaces, radiators, stoves, metal pipes, sinks and appliances.

  • Use telephone only for emergencies.

 

If you are outside, with no time to reach a safe building or vehicle, follow these rules:

  • Do not stand under a natural lightning rod such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.

  • In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees.

  • In an open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley.

  • Be alert for Flash floods.

  • Do not stand on a hilltop, in an open field, on a beach or in a boat on the water.

  • Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.

  • Get out of the water and off small boats.

  • Get away from anything metal - tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs & bicycles, camping chairs, etc. 

  • Stay away from wire fences, clothes lines, metal pipes, rails, or anything high and can conduct electricity. Some of these items could carry electricity to you from some distance away. 

  • When you feel an electrical charge - If your hair stands on end or your skin tingles - squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees.

  • Do not lie flat on the ground.

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HIGHWINDS

Before High Winds

Survey your property:

  • Taking note of the materials stored, placed or used, which could become missiles and destroy other structures or be destroyed.

  • Devise methods of securing these items where they will still be accessible for a day-to-day needs.

  • Keep tall trees properly pruned away from power lines.

  • keep radio and/or TV on and monitor for wind advisories.

  • If possible, board up, tape or shutter all windows, but leave some ventilation.

  • Store water, in case water service is interrupted.

  • Have a supply of flashlights, spare batteries, candles, first aid supplies, medicines, etc. available for use.

  • Have plastic sheeting available in case roof is damaged and it begins to rain.

  • Secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, tools, etc.

  • Take pictures of the house/yard, and inside possessions for possible insurance purposes.

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During High Winds

  • Take shelter in hallways and closets; avoid windows.

  • If outside, take shelter from flying debris.

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After Winds Subside

  • Inspect your home for structural and roof damage.

  • Check all utilities and power lines for damage and proper operation.

  • Monitor radio and TV for instructions from local leaders.

LANDSLIDES

Landslides, mudslides and debris flow, may occur in  all parts of Utah and can be caused by a variety of factors including earthquakes, storms and fires. Landscapes can occur quickly & often with little notice.

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The best way to plan for a mudslide:

  • Notice changes in the landscape.

  • Water drainage systems.

  • Even new cracks in your homes foundations and sidewalks.

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Prepare for landslides by following proper land-use procedures:

Avoid building near steep slopes or along natural erosion valleys.

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Consult a professional for advise on preventative measures for your home or business:

  • Such as flexible pipe fittings, which can better resist breakage.

  • Before and after pictures would be helpful.

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Stay informed:

Your local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening & what you should and need to do.

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You should:

1. Listen to the National Weather station.

2. Watch local TV and radio stations for emergency broadcast alerts.

3. Check the internet often for official news and instructions as they become available. 

EARTHQUAKES

Before an earthquake

  • Secure water heater, storage shelves, heavy mirrors, shelves, etc. to walls. 

  • Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

  • Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves.

  • Have earthquake drills - identify safe spots in each room. 

  • Have an out-of-state contact person.

  • Develop a plan fro reuniting your family after an earthquake.

  • Review your insurance policies.

  • Keep a good pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed.

  • Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days.

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During an Earthquake

Inside: Stay calm.

Staying inside & find protection in a doorway, or crouch under a desk or table, away from windows, brick walls, chimneys, glass mirrors.

Outside: Stand away from buildings, trees, telephones and electric lines.

On the road: Drive away from underpasses/overpasses; stop in a safe area; always stay in your vehicle.

In an office building: Stay next to a pillar or column, or under a heavy table or desk.

Stay where you are until the shaking has stopped and you are sure it is safe to move.

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After an Earthquake

  • Check for injuries and provide first aid.

  • Check for fires; gas, water, sewage breaks; downed electric lines, building damage and potential problems during after shocks, such as cracks around fireplace and foundation.

  • Turn off interrupted utilities as necessary.

  • Clean up dangerous spills.

  • Wear leather shoes and gloves.

  • Tune radio to an emergency station and listen for instructions from public safety agencies.

  • Use the telephone only for emergencies.

  • As soon as possible, notify family that you are safe.

  • Do not use matches or open flames until you are sure there are no gas leaks.

  • Do not turn light switches off or on. Sparks created by the switch contacts can ignite gas fumes.

  • In public buildings, follow evacuation procedures immediately and return only after the building has been declared safe by the appropriate authorities. 

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENTS

Before an incident

  • Be prepared to evacuate. An evacuation could last for a few hours or several days.

  • Be prepared to shelter-in-place.

  • Always keep your 72-hour kit updated.

 

During an incident

  • Stay away from the incident to  lesson your risk of contamination.

  • Remain uphill and upwind from the hazardous materials.

  • If asked to evacuate your home, do so immediately.

  • Shelter-in-place if requested to stay indoors.

  • Schools may institute shelter-in-place procedures if there is a hazardous materials incident.

  • If so, you will probably not be able to drive to the school to pick up your children.

  • Avoid contact with spilled liquids, air-borne mist or condensed solid chemical deposits.

  • Follow the directions of your local emergency officials.

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After an Incident

  • Do not return home until you are told it is safe.

  • When you get home, open windows, vents and turn on fans to ventilate your house.

  • Find out from local authorities how to clean up your land and property.

  • Report any lingering vapors or hazards.

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HOME HAZARD HUNT

Check for Electrical hazards

  • Repair or replace damaged cords & plugs.

  • Remove electric cords from under rugs or over nails, pipes or heaters.

  • use one plug per outlet.

  • Put covers on outlets or electrical boxes.

  • Repair/replace your appliances that spark, smoke or overheat.

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Check for Chemical Hazards

  • Store flammable chemicals in approved containers & place in a well ventilated area outside your home.

  • Store oily rags in a covered metal container.

  • Limit quantities of household chemicals & store out of reach of children.

  • Separate chemicals that may have a reaction with outer chemicals like bleach and ammonia.

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Check for Fire Hazards

  • Get rid of all combustibles material in your yard like, yard waste, papers, rags, old mattress.

  • Separate heat sources and combustibles.

  • Keep chimney, flue pipes, vents and vent connectors clean and in good repair.

  • Keep portable heaters in low traffic areas.

 

Safety Equipment

  • Install a smoke detector near each bedroom & in hallways.

  • Test & replace batteries twice a year.

  • Learn how to use a fire extinguisher.

 

Secure Large Items in Your Home

  • Anchor water heaters, large appliances, all tall or heavy furniture and pictures to studs in the wall.

  • Install a flexible gas line on gas appliances.

  • Store heavy objects on lower shelves & secure all cabinet doors.

  • Avoid placing beds under windows or heavy objects.

  • Brace overhead light fixtures or fans.

 

Utilities

As a family learn the location of all your utilities shut-off valves and how to operate them. 

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EXPLOSIONS

If there is an Explosion

Take shelter against your desk or sturdy table.

Exit the building ASAP

Do not use elevators.

Check for fire and other hazards.

Take your emergency supply kit, if time allows.

Help others and provide first aid as needed.

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If there is a Fire

  • Exit the building ASAP

  • Crawl low if there is smoke

  • Use a wet cloth, if possible, to cover your nose and mouth.

  • Use the back of your hand to feel the upper, lower and middle parts of closed doors.

  • If the door is not hot, brace yourself against it and open slowly.

  • If the door is hot, do not open it.

  • Look for another way out.

  • Do not use elevators.

  • If you catch fire, do not run. Stop, Drop & Roll to put out the fire.

  • If you are at home, go to your designated meeting place.

  • Account for your family members & carefully supervise small children.

  • Never go back into a burning building.

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If you are Trapped in Debris

  • If possible, use a flashlight to signal your location to rescuers. 

  • Avoid unnecessary movement so that you don't kick up dust.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand (dense-weave cotton material can act as a good filter).

  • Try to breathe through the material.

  • Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are.

  • If possible, use a whistle to signal rescuers.

  • Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust. 

nuclear image.png

NUCLEAR EMERGENCY

During a Nuclear Emergency

  • If you have advanced warning, take your 72-hour kit and go to an approved shelter or your basement.

  • Huddle close to the floor and as near to a wall as possible.

  • Get under a table for protection from falling objects.

  • Do not attempt to evacuate you shelter. if you see a nuclear flash or feel sudden heat, take cover instantly, within one to two seconds.

  • Drop to the ground and curl up tightly.

  • Cover as many parts of your body as possible.

  • Go to a shelter once the heat and blast effects have cleared.

  • Never looked at the light of a nuclear explosion.

 

After nuclear emergency

Take cover in an underground basement, shelter etc.

Remove contaminated clothing.

Wash yourself thoroughly with soap and water.

Wash your head and nose hairs especially well.

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If source of radiation is known and travel advisable:

Remember to travel in the opposite direction, always go upwind from radiation.

Remain in a protective shelter until advised it is safe to leave.

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Limit your exposure to contaminated areas:

If someone needs radiation sickness treatment

1. Keep the victim calm.

2. Always give emotional support.

3. Give plenty of fluids.

4. Wipe all the containers with a clean cloth to remove particles of fallout (fallout resembles sand or salt.)

INFORMATION OBTAINED:

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www.fema.org

www.firewise.org

www.beready.utah.org

Firewise Guide for Arizona; azsf.az.gov/system/files/documents/files

Firewise Earthquake Country-california

extention.org.az/newmexicoclimate

Firewise.plants.garden

Washington County LEPC meetings

Citizens Corp Meetings & Conference: citizencorp.utah.gov

Division of Emergency management: dem.utah.gov

America Red Cross: redcross.org

Center for Disease Control: cdc.gov

Disaster Help: disasterhelp.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency: fema.gov

U.S. Department of Homeland Security: ready.gov

Be Ready Utah: bereadyutah.gov

Southwest utah Public Health Department: swhealth.org

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