Will County. Emergency Preparedness Guide. Will County Health Department Will County Emergency Management Agency

Transcription

1 Will County Emergency Preparedness Guide 2007 Will County Health Department Will County Emergency Management Agency

2 MISSION The Mission of the Will County Health Department is to prevent disease and promote a healthier environment for all. To that end, agency professionals assure the maintenance of flexible program initiatives and develop sound public health policies, based on a thorough assessment of community needs. Will County Emergency Management Agency is responsible for coordinating the emergency and disaster mitigation, preparedness, planning, response and recovery efforts of the County and its political subdivisions in conjunction with the State of Illinois, private organizations, businesses, and the public.

3 Table of Contents Emergency Numbers Important Preparedness Websites Family Emergency Plans Emergency Supply Kit Contents First Aid Kit Contents Travel Emergency Kit Contents Pet Emergency Kit Contents Terms to Know Practice Family Emergency Plans Color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System Categories of Terrorism Attacks Pandemic Flu Natural Disasters Tips on How to Protect Your Family in an Emergency How to Become an Emergency Volunteer Sources of Information

4 Important Numbers Emergency Will County Health Department Will County Emergency Management Agency Will County Sheriff s Office Non-emergency Homeland Security Information BE-READY ( ) For You to Complete: Local Police Local Fire Hospital Pediatrician Physician Pharmacy Other

5 Important Preparedness Websites Will County Health Department Will County Emergency Management Agency Illinois Department of Public Health Illinois Homeland Security Centers for Disease Control & Prevention U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency American Red Cross Pandemic Flu National Weather Service Other

6 PLAN Family Emergency Plan Emergencies strike without warning. You may not have much time to act. Prepare now. Create your family s emergency plan. Post the plan where everyone can see it. Display house number so it is clearly visible. Keep home address and telephone number posted. Teach everyone how and when to dial Develop and carry a Family Communications Plan Card. Know location of the first aid kit. Keep a working flashlight on every level of the house. Make sure smoke detectors are installed and batteries are changed two times a year as recommended by the National Fire Protection Association. Have health insurance and family s medical needs information readily available. Have two escape routes identified. Determine an outside meeting place. Practice the plan.

7 PREPARE In some emergencies, officials will order an evacuation. At other times it will be safer to stay where you are and shelter-in-place. In either event you should have supplies on hand for at least three days. Put two emergency supply kits together. In one, put everything needed to stay where you are. The other should be a smaller version, packed in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers that you can take along in an evacuation.

8 Emergency Supply Kit Battery powered radio and flashlight, and extra batteries Bottled drinking water - one gallon per person per day Canned or sealed packaged foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking Non-electrical can opener and utility knife Plastic eating utensils and dishes Ziplock bags Paper towels, toilet paper, soap and detergent Household laundry bleach (unscented) Blanket or sleeping bag for each member of the family Change of clothing and an extra pair of shoes for each person Basic tools (wrench, hammer, screwdrivers) Duct tape and plastic garbage bags Signal flare, matches and whistle Cell phone and extra battery Fire extinguisher Extra set of car keys, cash or traveler s checks Family Emergency Communication Plan Important phone numbers and information Prescription and non-prescription medicines Special foods needed by family members Formula, baby foods, wipes, diapers and bottles Denture needs, extra eye glasses, contact lenses and supplies

9 First-Aid Kit Manual Sterile bandages-assorted sizes Gauze pads Hypoallergenic adhesive tape Scissors Tweezers Pain reliever Latex gloves Thermometer Needle Antiseptic spray Safety pins

10 Travel Emergency Kit Booster cables Maps Shovel Tire repair kit and air pump Flares Distress flag Bottled water Paper towels, toilet paper, and soap Blankets Change of clothing and an extra pair of shoes Basic tools Matches Cell phone and battery charger Extra set of keys Cash or traveler s checks Important phone numbers and information Prescription and non prescription medicines

11 Pet Emergency Kit Identification collar Rabies tag Pet carrier or cage Leash Medications Newspaper, litter, trash bags for waste Two-week supply of food and water Veterinary records

12 TERMS TO KNOW Shelter-in-Place at Home or Work If chemical or airborne hazards have been detected, your local officials my advise you to shelter-in-place. Close and lock all windows and exterior doors Turn off fans, heating or air conditioning systems Close the fireplace damper Locate personal emergency supply kit Listen to radio for instructions from authorities Go to an interior room that has no windows and is above ground If you are instructed, use the duct tape from your supply kit to seal all cracks and vents

13 Shelter-in-Place in a Vehicle Stay in your vehicle Close all windows, manual vents, air conditioning and ventilation systems Drive away from visible gas or smoke clouds, if possible Follow orders of law enforcement Tune to WJOL 1340 AM on your radio Stay in your vehicle and wait for the all-clear signal from authorities

14 Evacuation Follow instructions from government officials Take your Emergency Supply Kit Move to higher ground away from creeks, rivers, streams and storm drains Become familiar with your chosen routes ahead of time DO NOT walk or drive around barricades Isolation Separation of persons who have a specific infectious illness from those who are healthy. Allows delivery of specialized healthcare to people who are ill Protects healthy people from getting sick People in isolation may be cared for in their homes, hospitals, or designated healthcare facilities Quarantine Separation and restriction of movement of persons who have been exposed to an infectious agent and therefore may become infectious. Quarantine is medically very effective in protecting the public from disease

15 PRACTICE Quiz children every six months to ensure they remember what to do Conduct fire and evacuation drills Replace water in supply kits every three months Replace stored food every six months Inspect your fire extinguisher and have it recharged if necessary Test smoke detectors every month and replace the batteries two times a year

16 Homeland Security Advisory System The Homeland Security Advisory System was designed as a simple way to communicate information regarding the risk of terrorist activity. These colors suggest how Americans should take caution when the threat level changes. Knowing what these colors mean are another way your family can be prepared. The greater the risk of a terrorist attack, the higher the threat level. From highest to lowest, the levels and colors are:

17 LOW LOW RISK OF TERRORIST ATTACKS Low Condition (Green) There is a low risk of terrorist attacks. Develop a personal emergency plan and an emergency supply kit. Know how to turn off electric, gas, and water service to your house. Know what natural hazards are prevalent in your area and what measures you can take to protect your family.

18 GUARDED GENERAL RISK OF TERRORIST ATTACKS Guarded Condition (Blue) There is a general risk of terrorist attacks. Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities. Check stored emergency supplies and replace items that are outdated. Develop an emergency communication plan that all family members understand. Establish an alternate meeting place away from home with family/friends.

19 ELEVATED SIGNIFICANT RISK OF TERRORIST ATTACKS Elevated Condition (Yellow) There is a significant risk of terrorist attacks. The public should be alert to suspicious activity. Ensure emergency supply kits are stocked and ready. Check telephone numbers and addresses in your family emergency communication plan and update. Develop alternate routes to/from school/work and practice them.

20 HIGH HIGH RISK OF TERRORIST ATTACKS High Condition (Orange) There is a high risk of terrorist attacks. Officials will take additional precautions at public events and restrict access to some specific sites within a city or area. Monitor news reports, Emergency Alert System, radio/tv stations for instruction and /or information. (WJOL 1340 AM). Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities. Organize emergency supply kits and discuss emergency plans with family members. Prepare to do without services you would normally depend on that could be disrupted such as electricity, telephone, natural gas, ATM machines, Internet access, and closed gas stations. Have shelter-in-place materials available and understand procedure. Discuss children s fears concerning possible/actual terrorist attacks.

21 SEVERE SEVERE RISK OF TERRORIST ATTACKS Severe Condition (Red) There is a severe risk of terrorist attacks. This is the highest level. Listen to the radio/television for current information/ instructions. Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities immediately. Be aware of any travel advisories that may impact your local area. Prepare to shelter-in-place or evacuate your home. Listen to media to determine status of work/school day. Discuss children s fears concerning possible/actual terrorist attacks. Officials may close public and government buildings, activate special emergency teams, and limit transportation.

22 TERRORISM In the event of a terrorist attack, you will need to rely on police, fire and other officials for instructions. Be aware of your surroundings. An attack will give little or no warning. Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Report suspicious packages and strange devices promptly to the police. If you encounter a suspicious envelope or package: Do not eat or drink in the area. Never sniff or smell suspect items. Leave the room, close the door, and prevent others from entering. Wash with soap and water. Report the incident to your building security or police. Do not hesitate to leave if something does not seem right. Learn where emergency exits are located in buildings. Plan how to get out of a congested public area.

23 Categories of Terrorist Attacks CHEMICAL the use of chemical compounds (e.g., arsenic, sarin gas) BIOLOGICAL the use of living organisms (e.g., anthrax, plague, tularemia) RADIOLOGICAL the use of a radiological dispersion device (e.g., dirty bomb) NUCLEAR the use of a nuclear device EXPLOSIVE the use of explosive devices (e.g., dynamite)

24 Chemical A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid, or solid that can poison people and the environment. Chemical weapons may exist as solids, liquids or gases, depending on temperature and pressure. What should you do in the event of a chemical attack? Watch for watery eyes, twitching, choking, trouble breathing, or losing coordination. Sick or dead birds, fish, or small animals are also cause for suspicion. If the chemical is inside a building, get out of the building without passing through the contaminated area. Move far away from where you suspect the chemical release is and "shelter-in-place." Consider if you can get out of the area or if it would be better to "shelter-in-place." If you think you have been exposed to a chemical; remove clothing, look for a source of water, wash with soap and water, do not scrub. Seek emergency medical attention.

25 Biological A biological attack is the release of germs or other biological substances. Biological agents may be inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin, or be eaten. Some agents can cause contagious diseases, others do not. While it is possible that you will see signs of a biological attack, it is more likely healthcare workers will report a pattern of unusual illness. You will probably learn of the danger through an emergency radio or television broadcast. Examples of biological substances include: Anthrax Botulism Plague Tularemia Smallpox Viral Hemorrhagic Fever If you become aware of an unusual or suspicious release of an unknown substance nearby, it is important to protect yourself: Move away from the substance. Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that can filter the air. Wash with soap and water. Be prepared to shelter-in-place. Report it to local authorities by calling

26 Radiological A radiological attack is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials. An example of a radiological attack would be a Dirty Bomb, which is a conventional explosive combined with radiological materials. What should you do in the event of a radiological attack? Try to limit your radiation exposure. Use shielding, distance, and time. Shielding: If you have a thick shield between yourself and the radioactive materials, the shield will absorb more of the radiation. Distance: Move away from the radiation to lower your exposure. Time: Minimize exposure time. Watch television, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for news and information from the authorities.

27 Nuclear The risk of a nuclear weapon falling into hands of a terrorist organization is extremely low. Take cover as quickly as you can, below ground if possible, and stay there until instructed to do otherwise. Consider if you can get out of the area, or if it would be better to "shelter-in-place. Shielding: A thick shield between yourself and the radioactive material will minimize exposure. Distance: The farther away from the blast the lower your exposure. Time: Minimize time spent exposed to reduce your risk.

28 Explosive Take shelter against an object. Do not use elevators. Check for fire and other hazards. Take your emergency supply kit if time allows. If the explosion causes a fire Exit the building. Crawl low in smoke. Use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth. Use the back of your hand to feel parts of doors. Do not open the door if it is hot. Look for another way out. If the door is not hot, brace yourself against the door and open it slowly. Use fire exits, not elevators. If you catch fire, do not run! Stop, Drop, and Roll. If you are at home, go to previously designated meeting place. Account for your family members. Carefully supervise small children. Do not go back into the burning building.

29 Preparing for A Terrorist Bombing Although terrorists use a variety of methods to inflict harm and create fear, bombs are used most frequently. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK SOMEONE IS GOING TO SET OFF A BOMB? Leave the area immediately. Call if you see a suspicious package, person, or vehicle. Do not use your cell phone. Follow directions of people in authority (police, fire, military personnel, neighborhood leaders, workplace supervisors, school administrators.)

30 Preparing for A Terrorist Bombing (continued) WHAT SHOULD I DO DURING A TERRORIST BOMBING? Leave the area immediately. Follow your family, work, or school emergency disaster plan. Avoid crowds. They may be targeted for a second attack. Avoid unattended cars and trucks. They may contain explosives. Stay away from damaged buildings to avoid falling debris. Move at least 2 blocks or 200 yards away from damaged buildings. Call once you are in a safe area. Follow directions from people in authority. Help others who are hurt or need assistance to leave the area.

31 Pandemic Flu WHAT IS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA (FLU)? Pandemic Influenza is a global outbreak caused when a new influenza virus emerges, for which there is little or no immunity or ability for the body to fight the virus in the human population. The virus may spread easily possibly causing serious illness and death. Because so many people are at risk, serious consequences are possible. The timing and consequences of Pandemic Influenza are difficult to predict as flu viruses are constantly changing. Pandemic Influenza occurred three times during the 20th century. The 1918 influenza pandemic was the most serious, killing millions of people worldwide. LOCAL PREPARATION FOR PANDEMIC FLU Local health departments are responsible for communitywide influenza preparedness activities. The Will County Health Department has developed a Will County Pandemic Influenza Plan and conducts training meetings and exercises with other agencies to build response capabilities. The Health Department also conducts routine disease surveillance activities which can assist to forecast and monitor disease outbreaks in the County. Should an influenza pandemic occur, the Health Department and other County emergency agencies will work with regional partners and the State of Illinois to manage and distribute antiviral supplies and vaccines, along with carrying out other public health, medical, and emergency response services.

32 Pandemic Flu (continued) PREPARING FOR AN INFLUENZA PANDEMIC WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can prepare for an influenza pandemic now. You should know both the magnitude of what can happen during an influenza outbreak and what actions you can take to help lessen the impact of a pandemic on you and your family. The below information will help you gather the information and resources you may need: To plan for a pandemic: Store a supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies such as power outages and disasters. Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicine, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins. Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home. Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response. Get involved in the Volunteer Corp as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic.

33 Pandemic Flu (continued) To limit the spread of germs and prevent infection: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or alcohol-based gels. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home from work or school if you are sick. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a disposable tissue and throw it away. Or, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Teach your children to model the correct behaviors listed above and tell them to teach these behaviors to their friends.

34 Natural Disasters Will County is vulnerable to a variety of types of severe weather including thunderstorms, flash floods, snowstorms, and tornadoes. It is important for you to understand the difference between a watch and a warning. A severe storm watch means that severe weather may develop. A severe weather warning means a storm has developed and is on its way. Take cover immediately! The safest place to ride out the storm is inside a secure building. Listen to weather updates and stay informed. Be ready to evacuate if necessary. Keep away from windows and doors. Have your Emergency Supply Kit ready.

35 Tornadoes Tornadoes are dangerous because of their high winds and ability to lift and move heavy objects. If you receive a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately. When a tornado WARNING is issued: Go to a safe place, away from glass and flying objects. Take your Emergency Supply Kit. If outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building, or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you are in a vehicle: STOP! Get out and lie flat and face down in a low area. Cover your head, wait for the tornado to pass. If you are at home: Go to the basement, storm shelter, or room near the center of the house. In a high rise or other public building: Move to the interior, preferably a stairwell or hallway.

36 Flash Floods Flash floods can be dangerous because of strong, swift currents. Move immediately to high ground. If flood waters rise around your car, get out and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Be aware of streams, drainage channels, and other areas known to flood. If local authorities issue a flood watch, prepare to evacuate: Secure your home. If you have time, tie down or bring outdoor equipment and lawn furniture inside. Move essential items to the upper floors. If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. Do not walk through moving water. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground. Do not drive into flooded areas. Two feet of water can wash a vehicle away.

37 Blizzards During winter weather keep items such as snow shovels, rock salt to melt ice on walk-ways, sand to improve traction and other snow removal equipment on hand. Prepare to shelter-in-place. Have a backup source of heat. If a thermostat controls your furnace and the electricity is off, you will need emergency heat. Use a gas fireplace, wood burning stove or fireplace. Keep one room at a livable temperature. Be sure room is ventilated. Kerosene heaters are an emergency option; never use any fuel other than kerosene in them. Store a supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove. Never burn charcoal indoors. If a blizzard traps you in your car: Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag. Remain in your vehicle where rescuers can find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by. Run the engine and heater about ten minutes each hour to keep warm. Open a window slightly for ventilation.

38 Extreme Heat The best defense is prevention. Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic). Warning: Check with your doctor if your fluid intake is limited. Don t drink liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Avoid very cold drinks; they can cause stomach cramps. Stay indoors, if possible in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the mall or library even a few hours in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Take a cool shower or bath, or move to an air-conditioned place to cool off. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle. Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on: Infants and young children People aged 65 or older People who have a mental illness Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need more frequent watching too.

39 PROTECT Disease surveillance is the systematic collection and analysis of data in an effort to control the spread of disease. The Will County Health Department routinely conducts disease surveillance and monitors reports to detect, as early as possible, any signs of unusual illness or increased frequency of infectious diseases. DISPENSING MEDICATIONS IN AN EMERGENCY Will County Health Department may dispense antibiotics or other medications. Officials will use the telephone, radio, television, and newspapers to give instructions to the public. Information on where to obtain the medications will be provided at the time of the emergency event. Know your children s age and weight before arriving at a site to receive medication. Be prepared to complete a form about your families health history. Log onto to download important information related to the emergency.

40 Boiling Water Boiling is the safest method of purifying water. Bring water to a rolling boil for 3-5minutes. Let the water cool before drinking. Boiled water will taste better if you put oxygen back into it by pouring the water back and forth between two clean containers. This will also improve the taste of stored water. Power Outage Eat perishable food and foods from the refrigerator first. Then, use the foods from the freezer. Minimize the number of times you open the freezer doors. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out.

41 Short Term Food Supplies Even though it is unlikely an emergency would cut off your food supply for two weeks, you should prepare a supply that will last longer. The easiest way to develop a two-week stockpile is to increase the amount of basic foods you normally keep on your shelves. Cooking Without Electricity For emergency cooking, you can use a fireplace, or go outside and use a charcoal grill or campstove. You can also heat food with candle warmers, chafing dishes, and fondue pots. Watch them at all times.

42 Volunteer Information Will County has recognized the need for volunteer assistance in the event of a health emergency. The Will County Health Department s Volunteer Corp has been established to recruit, train, and register volunteers. The Volunteer Corp will assist trained personnel and enhance emergency response efforts. Every Will County citizen can play a critical role in unifying our community and extending our County s health services. The Volunteer Corp needs volunteers with medical and non-medical skills to assist in health emergencies. Your life experience and professional background or education will let us know how best to place you. WHO SHOULD VOLUNTEER? EVERYONE! Will County Health Department s Volunteer Corp requirements: Age 18 or older Pass criminal background check Have a working telephone Able to respond when called Call today and register or mail in the Volunteer Coupon in this booklet Will County Health Department s Volunteer Corp

43 Volunteer Today Support Your Community s Health! Will County Health Department Call and Register for Will County Health Department s Volunteer Corp or mail in the Volunteer Coupon on the next page We Need You!

44 VOLUNTEER COUPON Name Address City, State, Zip ( ) ( ) Home Phone Work Phone Address Please check the volunteer position/s for which you are qualified and/or licensed: Medical / Allied Health Physician Pharmacist Nurse Dentist Other (please specify) General Clerical Customer Service Administrative Driver Custodial Other (please specify) Please mail to: Will County Health Department Emergency Preparedness & Response 501 Ella Avenue Joliet, IL

45 Information Adapted From: Will County Health Department Will County Emergency Management Agency DuPage County Health Department DuPage County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management American Red Cross Federal Emergency Management Agency Illinois Department of Public Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention United States Department of Homeland Security Rhode Island Department of Health New Jersey Homeland Security City of Naperville, Illinois

46 Bibliography Are You Ready? Emergency Preparedness Checklist. FEMA H-34 Item #8-0908: Federal Emergency Management Agency, September Are You Ready for a Fire? ARC 4456: American Red Cross and National Fire Protection Association, September Are You Ready for a Flood or a Flash Flood? NOAAPA 92059, ARC 4458: American Red Cross, National Weather Service, and Federal Emergency Management Agency, August Are You Ready for a Tornado? NOAA PA 92057, ARC 4457: American Red Cross and National Weather Service, July Are You Ready for a Thunderstorm? NOAA PA92051, ARC 5009: American Red Cross and National Weather Service, August Be Informed. Visual Guides for Biological Threat, Chemical Threat, Radiation Threat, and Nuclear Blast: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 2004.

47 Bibliography (continued) State of New Jersey, Plain Talk on Terrorism Preparedness; Domestic Security Preparedness Task Force. Preparing Makes Sense. Get Ready Now. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Providence Rhode Island ( ). Rhode Island Department of Health. Retrieved July 2005 from Rhode Island Department of Health website: Terrorism, Preparing for the Unexpected. A1366: American Red Cross, October Winter Storm, Talking about Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages. Produced by the National Disaster Education Coalition, Washington, DC, Your Family Disaster Plan. FEMA L-191, ARC4466: Federal Emergency Management Agency and American Red Cross, September City of Naperville Illinois (2004). Emergency Preparedness Guide.

48 Will County Health Department 501 Ella Avenue Joliet, IL Will County Emergency Management Agency 302 N. Chicago Street Joliet, IL