continuity 2018 - uwsp coop...resume performance of a primary mission essential function. by the...

Campus Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan Revised: June 13, 2018 1 | P a g e University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Continuity Of Operations (COOP) Plan

2018 This is the Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan for the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. This plan outlines UW-Stevens Point’s viable and executable contingency plans for Continuity of Operations (COOP) (providing essential functions to customers from different locations or applications, due to the primary facilities or other operations becoming unusable, for long or short periods).

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Campus Plan

2 | P a g e Revised: June 13, 2018 Campus Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

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Contents COOP Plan Approval ................................................ 5

Introduction 6

Scope ........................................................................................................................................................... 7

Applicability ................................................................................................................................................. 7

Assumptions ................................................................................................................................................. 7

Phases of Continuity Plan Implementation ................................................................................................ 8

Phase I: Readiness and Preparedness ..................................... 9

COOP Plan Objectives defined ......................................................................................................................... 9

Policy .......................................................................................................................................................... 9

COOP Development Team .............................................................................................................................. 9

COOP Planning Team – Departmental Teams ................................................................................................ 10

Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................................ 10

Campus Continuity Program Manager (CCPM) ............................................................................................... 11

Reporting Structure ...................................................................................................................................... 12

Campus Leadership Orders of Succession .......................................................................................................... 12

Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs) ................................................................................................ 13

Alternate Facilities ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Assigned Personnel & Responsibilities ............................................................................................................. 14

Unassigned Personnel & Responsibilities .......................................................................................................... 14

Family Support Documents ........................................................................................................................... 14

Plan Maintenance ........................................................................................................................................ 15

Phase II: Activation and Relocation...................................... 16

Alert and Notification Process ........................................................................................................................ 16

Employee Update/Information Sharing Process & Media Statement Policy ............................................................ 16

Alternate Facility ........................................................................................................................................ 16

Departure Process ........................................................................................................................................ 17


Go Kits ..................................................................................................................................................... 17

Phase III: Continuity Operations ....................................... 17

Orientation Checklist ................................................................................................................................... 17

Vital Files, Records and Databases ................................................................................................................ 17

Interoperable Communications ........................................................................................................................ 17

Phase IV: Reconstitution ............................................. 18

Deactivation Process ..................................................................................................................................... 18

Reconstitution Process ................................................................................................................................... 18

Appendices 19

Appendix A - Acronyms & Definitions .................................................................................................... 19

Appendix B - Authorities and References ................................................................................................ 22

Appendix C - Family Support Documents ............................................................................................... 23


Introduction he UW-Stevens Point campus overall Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan outlines a viable and executable contingency plan to maintain operation of campus primary mission essential functions. The purpose of the COOP Plan is to document and communicate procedures, protocols, and other information that is necessary and valuable to a timely recovery and resumption of an interrupted

primary mission essential function. This plan also includes the applicable elements of Continuity of Government (COG) (i.e., the continued performance of essential agency functions and support of the governor during emergency or disaster situations) given the University is an agency of the State.

The COOP plan helps make certain that we:

• Maintain a high level of readiness • Implement the plan both with and without warning • Become operational no later than 12 hours after activation • Maintain sustained operations for up to 30 days • Take maximum advantage of existing agency field infrastructures This plan is the result of a planning effort to facilitate assurance of the University’s preparedness and its capability to continue its performance of primary mission essential functions during extended interruptions that occur with or without warning. Secondary mission essential functions, while important, are of a lesser priority than primary functions. Because the scope of this university-wide COOP Plan is strictly limited to the address of primary mission essential functions, secondary essential functions identified by the COOP planning process may require utilization of some of the elements of continuity planning within, and by, the Division, College, or Department that is responsible for the performance of the secondary essential function.

Extended interruptions can result from the effect of a man-made or natural disaster, pandemic or epidemic disease, accidents, and commission of violent or destructive crime, utility failure, chemical spill or release, loss of supplies or transportation, fire, severe weather or other calamitous events. These interruptions may be internal (caused by conditions or actions on the University campus) or external (caused by conditions or actions off the University campus) and may affect the performance of mission essential functions directly or peripherally.

A COOP plan is not an emergency response plan; a COOP plan is for recovering and resuming operational performance of mission essential functions that have sustained an interruption from some internal or external event. Emergency response refers to action taken to protect people or property, in response to emergent events that present urgent, elevated, clear and present danger of injury, death or property destruction. COOP refers to a plan of action taken to recover and resume operations, in response to the anticipated and actual prolonged effect(s) of a primary mission essential function interruption. However, it is important for the reader to be aware that the timeframe of execution of an emergency response plan and a COOP plan activation may overlap and operate concurrently to some extent, as efforts to achieve continuity of operations for primary mission essential functions should begin as soon as achievable after the interrupting event. Concurrent execution of these plans may create a significant, and potentially debilitating, strain on the operational resources that are available for execution of either plan, and concurrent execution may therefore not be a feasible option. Under

T

“A COOP plan is not an emergency response plan; a COOP plan is for recovering and resuming operational performance of primary mission essential functions ….”


this scenario, resources required by the emergency response would take precedence over resources required by the COOP plan, until such time that the emergency response resources can be safely reallocated for assistance with COOP plan execution.

The COOP plan details the procedures, protocols, and tools to facilitate recovery, including for example information regarding sources or arrangements for alternate operating facilities, sources of supplementary or replacement staff, supplies, equipment and vital business records among others preparatory practices.

Scope This COOP plan applies to all UW-Stevens Point units, colleges, departments, and operations. The scope of this plan includes all primary campus mission essential functions. An interrupted primary mission essential function is, by definition, of such urgency and importance that performance of the function must be recovered and resumed within 12 hours, or as soon as achievable following their interruption. Recovery of secondary mission essential functions is not a goal of this University-wide plan, but is addressed within separate departmental continuity plans. Recovery of non-critical functions is not addressed within this plan.

Applicability This plan should be considered by users to be a reasonable guideline for successful recovery of an interrupted primary mission essential function. However, the plan may be implemented and/or modified by the UW-Stevens Point COOP Development Team, in part or in its entirety at any point of its execution, as required by the situational characteristics of the interrupting event, its scope and effects.

Assumptions For planning purposes, the COOP plan is based upon a reasonable approximation of a “worst case” scenario, presenting challenges that are likely to be encountered during and after a major man-made or natural disaster that results in the creation of an interruption to one or more campus primary mission essential functions. Users of this plan must keep in mind that a COOP plan is not an emergency response plan, but is a plan to recover and resume performance of a primary mission essential function. By the definition, primary mission essential functions are of such urgency and importance that their performance must be recovered and resumed within 12 hours of interruption, or as soon as achievable thereafter, with pre-emptive priority over all other continuity efforts. However, continuity and resumption of primary mission essential functions can only occur when the minimal requisite human and physical resources are available for use. If these resources are not available for use during

What is a Primary Mission Essential Function (PMEF)? It is an essential service that must continue with minimal or no disruption.

The performance of the primary mission essential function:

1. Cannot be interrupted for more than 12 hours;

OR

2. Enables the University to provide vital human services, preserve civil authority, maintain public safety, protect assets, comply with state/federal laws, or sustain financial viability.


or after an interrupting event, recovery and resumption of primary mission essential functions cannot occur until such time that these resources become available for use. Therefore, in order to guide planning efforts, the following resources and challenges are assumed to exist at a point in time that is 12 hours after the interrupting event:

1. There is electrical power and an operable telephone and data network at one or more campus locations. Telephone and data connectivity to the “outside world” exists and is operable.

2. One or more campus buildings cannot be safely occupied. 3. There is a significant, not complete, loss or unavailability of original and usual staff. 4. There is a significant, not complete, loss of original, usual, and requisite computer equipment,

electronic or paper records, supplies, or other physical resources. Users should also keep the following qualifiers in mind:

• An interrupting event may occur at any moment on any weekday, weekend, or holiday, with or without warning.

• Interruptions to primary mission essential functions may be campus-wide or citywide. Therefore, it is necessary for the University and its subdivisions to plan for and execute COOP planning elements independently, concurrently and/or in cooperation with other campus and local resources.

• This plan should be considered by users to be a reasonable guideline for successful recovery of an interrupted primary mission essential function. However, the plan may be modified in its implementation and execution, in part or in its entirety at any point of its execution, as required by the situational characteristics of an interrupting event, its scope and effects.

Phases of Continuity Plan Implementation

• Phase I - Readiness and Preparedness

• Phase II - Activation and Relocation (0-12 hours): plans, procedures, and schedules to transfer activities, personnel, records, and equipment to alternate facilities are activated

• Phase III - Continuity Operations (12 hours – 30 days or until resumption of normal operations): full execution of essential operations at alternate operating facilities is commenced

• Phase IV – Reconstitution: operations at alternate facility are terminated and normal operations resume


Phase I: Readiness and Preparedness COOP Plan Objectives defined The COOP plan is not an emergency response plan; the COOP plan is a strategic plan for recovering and resuming operational performance of primary mission essential functions that have sustained an interruption

from some internal or external event. The purpose of the COOP Plan is to: • Prepare for the continuous performance of UW-Stevens Point’s essential functions and operations during an emergency and throughout the recovery process to the highest level possible. COOP plans shall aid in minimizing disruption to the primary business of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point should a business interruption occur that disrupts the campus essential operations. This can only be accomplished by pre-planning and by taking steps to limit any potential disruption to a predictable, acceptable period. • Assist in providing for the personal safety and security of our personnel, customers, students, and visitors.

Policy It is the policy of the University to be prepared and capable to recover and resume performance of primary mission essential functions within 12 hours of interruption, or

as soon as achievable thereafter, with pre-emptive priority over all other continuity efforts. The University and its functional subdivisions are required to achieve and maintain adequate capacity and readiness to timely respond and recover from interruptions of primary essential functions that occur with and without prior warning and to continue to sustain operations for periods of interruption that may span 30 consecutive calendar days.

COOP Development Team Successful COOP planning requires an effort on part of all UW-Stevens Point units. The UW-Stevens Point Emergency Planning Team will assign individuals representing units throughout campus to the UW-Stevens Point COOP Plan Development Team. Units represented include:

• Chancellor’s Office • Student Affairs

o Centers (Allen, Dreyfus University Center, Health Enhancement Center)

o Counseling Center o Student Health Service

o Residential Living • University Communications and Marketing • Business Affairs

o Risk Management o Facility Services o Financial Operations

o University Police & Security Services

o Human Resources • Academic Affairs

o Registration and Records o Representatives from each College (College of Fine Arts, College of Letters and Science,

College of Natural Resources, College of Professional Studies) o Information Technology


The COOP Plan Development Team is responsible for developing, approving, and maintaining UW-Stevens Point COOP plans and procedures that provide for:

• Identification of UW-Stevens Point mission essential functions. • Pre-determined delegations of authority and lines of succession. • Contingency staffing to perform essential functions. • Identification of alternate operating facilities. • Interoperable communications, information processing systems and equipment. • Working with individual UW-Stevens Point units/departments for completion of departmental

COOP plans. • Protection of vital records and systems. • Conducting tests and training of agency COOP plans (i.e., COOP contingency staff, essential

systems and equipment) to ensure timely and reliable implementation of COOP plans and procedures.

• Participating in periodic interagency COOP exercises to ensure effective interagency coordination and mutual support.

• Notifying the Portage County Emergency Management Director and other appropriate agencies upon implementation of COOP plans.

• Developing outreach and coordination plans with local emergency management agencies. • Issuing COOP guidance to promote understanding of and compliance with the requirements

and objectives of governing directives. • Ensuring training is accomplished. • Assigning and delegating duties and tasks to appropriate UWSP staff to meet all responsibilities. • Developing plans for devolution and reconstitution.

COOP Planning Team – Departmental Teams Management of each unit or department identified as required to develop individual department COOP plans will be responsible for formation of a Department COOP planning team. These teams shall include the necessary staff to complete the department COOP plans.

Responsibilities Chancellor of the University The UW-Stevens Point Chancellor is responsible for assuring that the University is prepared and capable to respond appropriately to significant disruptions of mission essential functions through the execution of this Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plan. These responsibilities encompass complete oversight of the plan and the provision of necessary resources for its development, implementation, execution, testing and maintenance at all levels of the University.

The Chancellor may delegate current and/or future responsibilities associated with the plan, however the overall responsibility and accountability for the effectiveness of the plan shall remain with the Chancellor.

Division Heads Division Heads (Provost, Vice Chancellors, and Associate Vice Chancellors) are responsible for assuring the identification of Division-specific mission essential functions and for the development and implementation of preparatory measures that will enable the timely and effective recovery and resumption of affected essential functions that are subject to their supervision and control.


Deans The Deans of each College are responsible for assuring the identification of College-specific mission essential functions and for the development and implementation of COOP preparatory measures that will enable the timely and effective recovery and resumption of affected essential functions that are subject to their supervision and control.

Department Chairpersons and Directors Department Chairpersons and Directors are responsible for assuring the identification of Department-specific mission essential functions and for the development and implementation of COOP preparatory measures that will enable the timely and effective recovery and resumption of affected essential functions that are subject to their supervision and control. Supervisory Staff All employees with supervisory responsibility for one or more employees are responsible for the identification of unit-specific mission essential functions and for the development and implementation of COOP preparatory measures that will enable the timely and effective recovery and resumption of affected essential functions that are subject to their supervision and control. A supervisor is any employee that is required to conduct periodic, written performance appraisals of one or more employees.

All Faculty, Academic Staff, and University Staff All permanent employees are responsible for being aware of the basic elements of this plan and continue to fulfill their employment responsibilities during periods of disruption to mission essential functions, as directed by the employee’s supervisor. No element of this plan shall obligate any person to perform any action or effort known to be unsafe or unhealthful.

Additionally, all employees are encouraged to assist with COOP development by helping to:

• Identify mission essential functions • Identify vital records and determine methods to recover them after disruptions to essential functions • Provide, and keep current, their emergency contact information • Assure that their families are prepared for community-wide disruptions • Be personally prepared for disruptions of essential functions

Campus Continuity Program Manager (CCPM) The Emergency Management Specialist serves as the Campus Continuity Program Manager; backup is the Risk Management Director. The CCPM is responsible for coordinating, managing, monitoring, and evaluating the development, implementation, execution, testing, and maintenance of campus COOP plans, as well as COOP training. When these responsibilities are taken in total, the Campus Continuity Program Manager is responsible for ensuring a viable continuity of operations capability at UW-Stevens Point.


Reporting Structure

Campus Leadership Orders of Succession Succession to office is essential in the event that Campus leadership is unavailable, debilitated, or incapable of performing their legally authorized duties, roles and responsibilities. Orders of succession provide for the orderly and predefined assumption of offices during such an emergency.

Below is the UW-Stevens Point line of succession for the line officer positions on campus. Authority to make highest-level decisions during COOP implementation rests with these positions. This is established to ensure the ability to perform essential functions and make policy decisions in the event a key individual is unavailable. The line of succession provides the next in line with full authority of the Chancellor position under the control of University of Wisconsin System Administration (UWSA) President and UW Board of Regents. The successor has the full authority that the Chancellor would have, which includes carrying out the functions of the university and the ability to allocate fiscal, personnel and equipment resources of the campus. The successor has the authority to re-delegate an assigned Vice Chancellor as deemed necessary.

In the absence or unavailability of the Chancellor, this order of succession will be followed:

1. Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs 2. Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs 3. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs 4. Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

If above-mentioned are unavailable, University of Wisconsin System appoints a successor or assumes control.


When the highest-ranking individual is unavailable to perform their duties and UW-Stevens Point is facing the issue of succession to office, the individual holding the next position in line of succession will assume command for UW-Stevens Point. The UW-Stevens Point Emergency Operations Team will initiate and confirm the succession. When the higher-ranking individual is ready and able to return to duty, they shall reassume command. Notification to campus will be made through UW-Stevens Point Message of the Day (MOD) or other available methods when lines of succession changes occur. This announcement shall be authorized and sent by the existing UW-Stevens Point Emergency Operations Team through UW-Stevens Point University Communications and Marketing. Members of UW-Stevens Point Emergency Operations Team will make notification to all team members of the unavailability of a member once it is determined an individual is unavailable.

Authority for response to emergency situations which are immediately dangerous to life, health, or property are delegated to the UW-Stevens Point Director of University Police and Security Services in consultation with appropriate personnel such as Deans, Facility Services, Risk Management, or other affected area. Refer to the UW-Stevens Point Emergency Management Plan.

Other lines of succession for individual campus units (i.e., colleges, departments, etc.) shall follow established lines or be determined by the highest authority in the unit or by the Chancellor or their designee as necessary. These lines of succession will be detailed in department COOP plans. As delegations of authority, orders of succession are not merely a COOP function, they should be developed to support day-to-day operations.

Affected individuals shall be briefed on this succession process and their duties. Revision to the line of succession will be approved by the UW-Stevens Point COOP Development Team and announced to campus as necessary.

To facilitate full implementation of COOP plans, UW-Stevens Point will follow existing emergency response roles and responsibilities structure for personnel and groups spelled out in the UW-Stevens Point Emergency Management Plan (EMP). These plans in the EMP will be followed and provide the organizational structure and support for COOP implementation and decision-making.

Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs) The Executive Policy Group oversees the execution of all campus primary mission essential functions.

University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point PMEFs Lead

Overall safe and effective operation of all campus functions. Chancellor Continuity and safe operation of School, College, and academic departmental activities.

Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Safe and effective operation of Residential Living, Student Health Service, Counseling, Dean of Students, University Centers, and Student Services.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Responsible for continuity and safe operation of University Police and Security Services, Facility Services, Risk Management, Purchasing, Bursar, Budget, Human Resources, and Facility Planning.

Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs

Responsible for security of personal data associated with UWSP Foundation records.

Vice Chancellor for University Advancement

Manage all official internal and external communications. Provide accurate and timely information to the campus and outside sources.

Executive Director for University Communications and Marketing


Alternate Facilities UW-Stevens Point recognizes that an emergency may disrupt normal operations and there may be a need to perform mission essential functions at alternate facilities. It is unlikely an emergency will require the relocation of the entire university. Individual departments and colleges, including the Executive Group, have identified in their COOP plans alternate locations on and off campus to operate.

IF the emergency requires partial or full activation of the campus Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the Emergency Operations Team (EOT) has identified two locations on campus designated as the primary and secondary Emergency Operations Center. The UW-Stevens Point Emergency Management Plan provides additional information about these locations.

Assigned Personnel & Responsibilities Any assigned staff on location in the event of a COOP plan activation should first be concerned with their own safety. If they are on staff and safe, they are to perform responsibilities as delegated by primary managers once COOP has been activated.

Assigned staff will assist in making sure all essential services are addressed and that all staff members are notified of the situation, including contacting unassigned staff who may be requested to provide guidance.

Unassigned Personnel & Responsibilities Unassigned personnel should be prepared to deploy to support the assigned staff, if required. Phone calls and/or e-mail will be issued to unassigned personnel, providing them direction on work status.

Family Support Documents During a COOP situation, employees will need to focus on maintaining essential functions. This focus will be disrupted if the employees are also concerned about their families' safety and security. All personnel are encouraged to preplan for their families' safety and security during emergency operations. During COOP activation, a priority for all employees should be to contact family members to assure they are safe. Utilize campus communication methods for this purpose if necessary. This section provides broad guidance for all UW-Stevens Point department’s to reference within their departmental COOP plans. If necessary, each department may develop additional family support guidelines. Below provides general guidelines for personal home preparation. See Appendix C for specific documents and a Family Emergency Preparedness Plan template available for reference and planning. Prepare a "Go Kit" It makes good sense to prepare for emergencies. All personnel should ensure that their families have a "Go Kit" that is readily accessible in case of an emergency. At a minimum, the family Go Kit should include:

• Personal items and necessities, including food and water, clothing, prescription medications, and other items that may be required for family survival

• Financial and legal documents that cannot be replaced easily • The name and phone number of an out-of-area contact. It may be easier to call someone outside the

area than to make local calls during an emergency. An out-of-area contact can relay messages about the location and safety of family members


Develop a Plan Emergencies can occur quickly, and a quick response can be the difference between life and death or serious injury. Therefore, it is important for employees and their families to develop a plan for responding in an emergency and discuss:

• The types of emergencies that are most likely to occur • How the family will get information about the emergency (e.g., Emergency Alert System broadcasts) • What family members will do in each case • If some family members are at school or work, find out about the emergency plans at those places as

well Department/Unit’s Role in Family Support Planning During an emergency, employees and their families will appreciate knowing that the department is concerned for safety. The department/unit’s COOP program should include:

• Processes for activating an emergency information call-in number for employees to get information about agency operations, pay and benefits, and other items of interest

• A process to account for and track all employees. As the COOP situation progresses, it may be possible to expand operations. It is important to be able to account for and track employees so they can be reached if needed

• Provisions for providing guidance and assistance to employees and their families. Anticipating questions and providing guidance will help employees focus on their work, while being assured that their families are taken care of

Communicating During an Incident Lessons from 9/11 showed that during an emergency, even basic communication can be neglected in the face of pressing decisions. The department should develop a communications plan for all employees. The plan should:

• Incorporate regular communications to employees (at least every 24 hours) • Update information as necessary • Include procedures for securing the worksite • Include provisions for safeguarding vital records

During COOP activation, a priority for all employees should be to contact family members to assure they are safe and check on each other’s well-being. See Appendix C for Family Emergency Plan template. Also, see www.ready.gov for many additional personal preparedness resources.

Plan Maintenance Maintaining COOP Readiness

The Risk Management Department will ensure the campus wide overall COOP plan is reviewed annually and updated for accuracy.

The updated version of the COOP document will then be updated to all sources where it is published either electronically or by hardcopy. This is the responsibility of the Emergency Management Specialist within 2 weeks of the completion of the annual review.

http://www.ready.gov/


Phase II: Activation and Relocation

Activation and relocation encompasses the initial 12-hour period following activation of a COOP plan. During Phase 2, the campus activates its plan(s), procedures and schedules to transfer operations to the alternate location(s).

Alert and Notification Process In the first 12 hours of COOP activation, notify staff and other appropriate departments and offices that department has activated COOP plan. (NOTE: Make sure to contact ALL STAFF and keep them apprised of the situation.) The Campus Continuity Program Manager (CCPM) is available to assist departments/units with COOP plan implementation.

In the event that a disaster severely affects staffing levels or facilities across campus, the department/unit Continuity Program Manager (CPM) or designee will contact the UW-Stevens Point Emergency Operations Team. The UW-Stevens Point Emergency

Operations Team can assist with communication to campus and resource needs. Both campus administration and the Department/Divisions via the CPM should continue dialog until they can return to normal operations and their primary facility or new location.

Employee Update/Information Sharing Process & Media Statement Policy Remaining in contact with campus employees is critical, especially during a COOP activation event. The message should include:

• Brief description of the emergency situation • Instructions regarding work assignment, location, hours, who to report to • How additional information will be made available • Date/time of next update

Media Statement Policy Media calls requesting news or comments on any phase of a campus COOP operation should be referred to the Department of University Communications and Marketing at (715) 346-3046. If asked for information, communicate only that information that has been authorized for release by the Executive Director of University Communications and Marketing.

Alternate Facility It is assumed that in most cases when COOP activation is required, a department’s primary operating facility is unavailable and essential functions must be relocated. Therefore, all departments must pre-identify an alternate location that can be used by continuity personnel to carry out mission essential functions.


Departure Process COOP implementation will generate stress for Emergency Relocation Group (ERG) members as they prepare to depart quickly to the alternate facility. Written procedures to guide the deployment process can reduce stress and ensure that no important concerns are overlooked during the transition.

Go Kits Go Kits are packages of records, information, communication and computer equipment, and other items related to an emergency operation. Each Emergency Relocation Group member should prepare Go Kits in advance and keep them up-to-date and available should deployment be necessary.

Kits should contain items that are essential to supporting the team member's operations at the alternate site.

Phase III: Continuity Operations The Continuity Operations section of the plan comprises the onsite operations at the continuity facility (alternate work site). This section of the plan includes an orientation checklist, procedures for day-to-day operations, a list of all vital records, and a communication plan to keep employees and the campus informed of your situation.

Orientation Checklist COOP implementation will generate stress for staff members as they report to work at the alternate facility. Make the transition easier by taking the time to give them information that will help them quickly adapt to their new environment, such as

• Emergency and security procedures for the site, including: • Evacuation procedures, exits and gathering location(s) • Shelter locations for tornado or severe storms • Bomb threat procedure • Building access procedures

Vital Files, Records and Databases Vital files, records and databases are informational items essential to a department’s operation. These items include electronic and hardcopy documents, references, and records needed to support mission essential functions during a COOP situation. They must be accessible within 12 hours of COOP activation.

To the extent possible, provide for off-site storage of duplicate records, off-site back up of electronic records and databases, and pre-positioning of vital records and databases at the alternate site. Safekeeping and pre-positioning systems and data are critical to alternate operations.

Interoperable Communications There are many avenues available to the campus community as a whole to communicate the COOP situation.

• Email • Message of the Day (MOD)/Student Message of the Day (SMOD) • RSS on campus Home page • Alertus full-screen popups • Text messaging • Building intercom systems


Phase IV: Reconstitution

Deactivation Process Deactivation is part of Phase IV, Reconstitution. This phase provides general guidance and policy on ending alternate operations and returning to a non-emergency status at the designated primary facility. You will develop procedures to inform all personnel that the emergency no longer exists, provide instructions for resumption of normal operations, and ensure the timely and efficient transition of communications, direction and control, and transfer of vital records and databases to the primary facility.

Reconstitution Process Reconstitution is the process by which surviving and/or replacement department personnel resume normal department operations as a fully functional entity at the original or replacement operating facility.


Appendices Appendix A - Acronyms & Definitions Key terms in this document include:

Activation. When a continuity plan has been implemented, whether in whole or in part, it is considered “activated.”

Alternate Facilities. Locations, other than the primary facility, used to carry out essential functions, particularly in a continuity event. Locations may include nontraditional options, such as teleworking.

Continuity. An uninterrupted ability to provide services and support, while maintaining organizational viability before, during, and after an event.

Continuity of Government (COG). A coordinated effort across the three branches of government to ensure the security and survivability of a constitutional government capable of directing and controlling the quick restoration of a civilian authority and essential government services and functions.

Continuity of Operations. An effort within individual agencies to ensure that they can continue to perform their Mission Essential Functions (MEFs) and Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs) during a wide range of emergencies, including localized acts of nature, accidents, and technological or attack-related emergencies.

Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Defines how mission essential functions will continue without normal supports until those supports are restored.

Continuity Program Manager (CPM). The CPM has overall responsibility for activities related to the COOP plan, including activation, relocation and reconstitution. This person must have the authority to make quick decisions in an emergency.

Continuity Personnel. Those personnel, both senior and core, who provide the leadership advice, recommendations, and functional support necessary to continue essential operations.

Deactivation Process. Deactivation is part of Phase IV, Reconstitution. This phase provides general guidance and policy on ending alternate operations and returning to a non-emergency status at the designated primary facility.

Delegation of Authority. Identification, by position, of the authorities for making policy determinations and decisions. Generally, predetermined delegations of authority will take effect when normal channels of direction have been disrupted and will lapse when these channels have been reestablished.

Devolution. The capability to transfer statutory authority and responsibility for essential functions from an agency’s primary operating staff and facilities to other agency employees and facilities, and to sustain that operational capability for an extended period.

Emergency Operations Center (EOC). An emergency operations center (EOC) represents the physical location at which the coordination of information and resources to support incident management activities normally takes place.


Emergency Operations Team (EOT). The Emergency Operations Team (EOT) is comprised of management staff responsible for the health, safety, and continued operations of the University. The EOT ensures activation of all relevant campus emergency plans. These plans are designed to help ensure the safety of the campus community. Composition of the Emergency Operations Team is dependent upon the incident type and scale.

Emergency Planning Team. An Emergency Planning Team composed of the UW-Stevens Point Line Officers, the Director of Risk Management, the Director of University Police, the Emergency Management Specialist and the Executive Director for University Communications and Marketing will meet as necessary to evaluate campus readiness and plan for improved responses to possible emergencies.

Emergency Relocation Group (ERG). Predesignated staff who move to an alternate facility to continue essential functions in the event that their normal work locations are threatened or have been incapacitated by an incident.

ERG Member. A person who has been assigned responsibility to report to an alternate facility, as required, performing agency essential functions or other tasks related to continuity operations.

Executive Management Team (EMT). Senior staff members appointed to assist and advise the CPM in emergency-related policy decisions. The EMT’s principal responsibility is to ensure focus on the right set of priorities in a crisis.

Executive Policy Group. The Executive Policy Group serves as the primary policy-setting group during a major campus emergency and during emergencies outside the campus, which have the possibility of affecting campus operations. The Group will consist of the Chancellor and a number of key advisors from the Chancellor’s Cabinet. Composition of the Executive Policy Group is incident-specific, thus, not every Cabinet member will be assigned to the Executive Policy Group during every emergency. The Policy Group provides policy direction to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) members.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Written agreements between departments/agencies that require specific services to be accomplished by one agency in support of the other.

Mission Essential Functions (MEFs). The limited set of functions that must be continued throughout, or resumed rapidly after, a disruption of normal activities.

Orders of Succession. Provisions for the assumption of senior agency offices during an emergency in the event that any of those officials are unavailable to execute their legal duties.

Primary Mission Essential Functions (PMEFs). The department’s essential services that must continue with no or minimal disruption. The performance of the primary mission essential function:

1. Cannot be interrupted for more than 12 hours; OR

2. Enables the university to provide vital human services, preserve civil authority, maintain public safety, protect assets, comply with state/federal laws, or sustain financial viability.

Reconstitution. The process by which surviving and/or replacement agency personnel resume normal agency operations from the original or replacement primary operating facility.


Recovery. The implementation of prioritized actions required to return an organization’s processes and support functions to operational stability following an interruption or disaster.

Recovery Time Objective (RTO). The maximum allowable downtime for mission essential functions. RTO is the period within which systems, applications or functions must be recovered after an outage.

Telework. The ability to work at a location other than the official duty station to perform work or emergency duties. This may include, but is not limited to, using portable computers, personal computers, high-speed telecommunications links, and mobile communications devices.

Test, Training, and Exercise (TT&E). Measures to ensure that an agency’s continuity plan is capable of supporting the continued execution of the agency’s essential functions throughout the duration of a continuity event.

University of Wisconsin System Administration (UWSA). Carries out the responsibilities of the UW System Office of President, as set forth by the Board of Regents and the Wisconsin State Statutes.

Vital Records. Electronic and hardcopy documents, references, and records to support essential functions during a continuity event. The two basic categories of vital records are (1) emergency operating records and (2) rights and interests records.


Appendix B - Authorities and References

AUTHORITIES

Wisconsin Governor

Wisconsin Statute Chapter 323.5, (1) During a state of emergency, the governor may designate emergency temporary location(s) for the seat of government and may take necessary actions to transition the affairs of state government. (2) Actions taken at a temporary location are valid and binding.

UW-Stevens Point Chancellor

The UW-Stevens Point Chancellor or designee has authority to direct necessary recovery and continuation actions on campus.

The Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, by his/her signature on the Letter of Approval, authorizes and directs that all employees with COOP responsibilities, determine and execute all necessary actions to timely develop, implement, execute and exercise the provisions of this plan.

REFERENCES

NFPA 1600 Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs, 2004 Edition, Part 5.7.2.5, National Fire Protection Association, January 16, 2004

Inter-Agency (State) Correspondence: December 15, 2006 letter from State of Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau to State of Wisconsin Department of Administration, regarding findings and management responses to the State of Wisconsin Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, Schedule of Findings, Finding #WI-06-8, pages 8 – 10.

A. Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Public Law 93-288, as amended) (www.fema.gov/library.stafact.shtm)

B. Federal Response Plan of January 2003 (www.fema.gov/rrr/frp)

C. Federal Preparedness Circular 65 of June 2004 (www.fas.org/irp/offdocs/pdd/fpc-65.htm)

D. National Response Framework, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, May 2013

E. National Security Presidential Directive 51 National Continuity Policy/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 20, April 4, 2007

F. National Continuity Policy Implementation Plan, Homeland Security Council, August 2007

G. Federal Continuity Directive 1, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, October 2012

H. Federal Continuity Directive 2, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, July 2013

I. Continuity Guidance Circular 1 (CDC 1), FEMA, January 21, 2009

J. Continuity Guidance Circular 2 (CDC 2), FEMA, October 2013

http://www.fas.org/irp/offdocs/pdd/fpc-65.htm


Appendix C - Family Support Documents Family Emergency Preparedness Plan All personnel are encouraged to plan for their families' safety and security during emergency operations. It is prudent for all employees responsible for campus mission essential functions to have a family emergency plan. Feel free to use the following Family Emergency Preparedness Plan. This plan is a compilation of preparedness guidance from www.ready.gov. Ready.gov Publications See http://www.ready.gov/publications to download or order numerous other publications about emergency preparedness and planning. Personal Medication Wallet Card Create your own personalized medication wallet card that documents your important medical information. Visit https://www.healthcareready.org/rx-on-the-run.


http://www.ready.gov/publications

Family Emergency Preparedness Plan

FAMI LY NAME

DATE PREPARED

NEXT REVIEW DATE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WHY PLAN? ................................................................................................................................... 3

PREPARE YOUR HOUSEHOLD FOR EMERGENCIES ............................................................................ 6

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES ................................................................................................................... 7

HELPING CHILDREN AFTER A DISASTER .......................................................................................... 8

TAKE CARE OF YOUR PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL NEEDS .................................................... 9

GETTING MEDICINE DURING A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY ........................................................ 10

PROTECT YOUR PETS .................................................................................................................... 11

PANDEMIC FLU ............................................................................................................................ 12

SHELTER-IN-PLACE ...................................................................................................................... 15

DISASTER TIPS FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL MEDICAL NEEDS ......................................................... 16

DISASTER TIPS FOR PEOPLE WITH VISUAL DISABILITIES ............................................................... 17

DISASTER TIPS FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED ................................................................................ 18

DISASTER TIPS FOR PEOPLE WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES ............................................................ 19

PREVENT THE SPREAD OF GERMS ................................................................................................. 20

ACCIDENTAL POISONING .............................................................................................................. 21

FLOODS ....................................................................................................................................... 22

HOT WEATHER PRECAUTIONS ...................................................................................................... 23

WINDSTORMS .............................................................................................................................. 24

WINTER STORMS .......................................................................................................................... 25

HOUSEHOLD FIRES ....................................................................................................................... 26

POWER OUTAGES ......................................................................................................................... 27

USING A GENERATOR DURING POWER OUTAGES .......................................................................... 28

PURIFYING HOUSEHOLD WATER ................................................................................................... 29

TURNING OFF UTILITIES ............................................................................................................... 30

SECURING YOUR WATER HEATER ................................................................................................. 31

ABOUT TERRORISM ...................................................................................................................... 32

RADIATION EXPOSURE ................................................................................................................. 33

CHEMICAL AGENTS ...................................................................................................................... 34

IMPORTANT FAMILY CONTACT NUMBERS .................................................................................... 35

FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN CARDS ....................................................................................... 37

2

Why Plan?

This Family Emergency Preparedness Plan is designed to help UW-Stevens Point employees and their families develop an emergency family plan.

Central Wisconsin is subject to a number of potential natural disasters such as fires, flooding, severe storms, dam failures, and tornadoes. While we all hope that such occurrences never happen, it has been shown time and time again that being prepared for disasters is essential to survival.

The first 72 is on you! Emergency services and government agencies may not be able to respond to your needs immediately. Buildings, equipment, personnel, communications, and mobility may be severely hampered by the event and systems will be overwhelmed. It is up to individuals to plan to be without services or help for a minimum of three days (72 hours).

We cannot stop these disasters from occurring, but we can limit their impact on us and those we love. Contrary to what you may think, the chances of being killed or injured in a disaster are very low. More likely you will be unable to live normally in your home. It may be damaged and let in the weather, it may be cold with no heat, you may have no power or water, or it may not even be safe for you to go back into. In short, disasters make life very uncomfortable. Proper planning and preparation will help you and your family be more comfortable in the event that your home is damaged, or you can’t get back into it. Think of it as a “quality of life” issue. The most important concept in developing a family emergency preparedness plan is communication. Every member of the family needs to be involved so that when disaster strikes, everyone will know what to do. How well you manage the aftermath of disaster depends a great deal on your level of preparedness when disaster strikes.

In the following pages you will find a step-by-step guide to disaster planning along with other essential information you will need in building a comprehensive family emergency preparedness plan. Be sure to involve all the members of your household when developing your preparedness plan. A plan will only work when everyone knows about it and agrees to operate within its guidelines.

Once your family is prepared, it is time to look to your neighbors. In times of disaster your neighbors will probably be the first ones available to come to your aid. Find out before disaster strikes what resources you share and how you can work together for the good of one another. Good luck! And don’t forget to review your plan annually.

Prepare… Because you care

3

FOUR STEPS TO DISASTER PLANNING

1 Find Out What Disasters Could Happen To You

Ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen in your area.

Learn about your community’s warning signals: what they sound like and whatyou should do when you hear them. Also, learn which radio stations will provideemergency information for your area.Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.

Find out about the disaster plan at your (and your spouse’s) workplace, yourchildren’s school or childcare center and other places your family frequents.

2 Create A Disaster Plan Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.

Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explainwhat to do in each case.__________________________________________________________________

Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan to take care of your pets.__________________________________________________________________

Ask an out-of-area friend or relative to be your “family contact.” often easier tocall long distance following a disaster.________________________________________________________

Pick two places to meet:1. Right outside your home in case of fire.2. Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return. Everyone must know

the address and phone number.Address:__________________________________________________________ Phone number:_____________________________________________

4

3 Put Your Plan Into Action

Post emergency telephone numbers by phones.

Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local emergencymedical services number for emergency help.

Show each family member how and when to turn off the and electricity at themain switches.

Check for adequate insurance coverage.

Install an ABC type fire extinguisher in your home, teach family members to useit, and show them where it is kept.

Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.

Conduct a home hazard hunt.

Stock emergency supplies and assemble supplies

Take a first aid and CPR class.

Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two for each room.

Find safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.

4 Practice and Maintain Your Plan

Review your plans every six months so everyone remembers what to do.

Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.

Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’sinstructions.

Test your smoke detectors monthly. Change the batteries every six months andclean the dust from the detector each time you change batteries.Date of last battery change: ___________________________________________Next battery change due: ____________________________________________________________________

Replace stored water and food every six months.Date of last rotation: ________________________________________________Date of next rotation: ________________________________________________________________________

5

Prepare Your Household for Emergencies After a disaster, you and your family should be prepared to be on your own for at least three days. In some emergencies, such as an influenza pandemic, you may need to prepare for a week or more. Emergency response teams will be very busy and may not be able to provide immediate care to all who need it.

Before disaster strikes

• Choose a place for your family to meet aftera disaster.

• Choose a person outside the immediatearea for family members to contact in caseyou get separated. This person should livefar enough away so he or she won’t beinvolved in the same emergency.

• Know how to contact your children at theirschool or daycare, and how to pick them upafter a disaster. Let the school know ifsomeone else is authorized to pick them up.Keep your child’s emergency release cardup to date.

• Put together an emergency supply kit foryour home and workplace. If your child’sschool or daycare stores personalemergency kits, make one for your child tokeep there.

• Know where the nearest fire and policestations are located.

• Learn your community’s warning signals,what they sound like and what you shoulddo when you hear them.

• Learn first aid and CPR. Have a first aid kit,a first aid manual and extra medicine forfamily members.

• Learn how to shut off your water, gas andelectricity. Know where to find shut-offvalves and switches.

• Keep a small amount of cash available. Ifthe power is out, ATM machines won’t work.

• If you have family members who don’t speakEnglish, prepare emergency cards inEnglish with their names, addresses andinformation about medications or allergies.

• Make sure they can find their cards at alltimes.

• Conduct fire drills every six months.

• Make copies of your vital records and storethem in a safe deposit box in another city orstate. Store the originals safely. Keepphotos and videotapes of your home andvaluables in your safe deposit box.

• Make sure family members know all thepossible ways to get out of your home. Keepall exits clear.

• Make sure all family members agree on anemergency plan. Give emergencyinformation to babysitters or othercaregivers.

During an emergency or disaster

• Keep calm and take time to think. Giveassistance where needed.

• Listen to your radio or television for officialinformation and instructions.

• Use the telephone for emergency calls only.

• If you are ordered to evacuate, take youremergency kit and follow official directions toa safe place or temporary shelter.

After the emergency or disaster is over

• Use caution in entering damaged buildingsand homes.

• Stay away from damaged electrical wiresand wet appliances.

• Check food and water supplies forcontamination.

6

Emergency Supplies Government agencies will respond to community disasters, but citizens may be on their own for hours, even days, after disaster strikes. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for at least three days (72 hours). In some emergencies, such as an influenza pandemic, you may need to prepare for a week or more.

Emergency survival kit • Store one of these at home, at work and at

each child’s school or daycare facility. • Dry or canned food and drinking water for

each person • Can opener• First aid supplies and first aid book• Copies of important documents, such as

birth certificates, licenses and insurancepolicies

• “Special needs” items for family members,such as infant formula, eye glasses andmedications

• A change of clothing• Sleeping bag or blanket• Battery powered radio or television• Flashlight and extra batteries• Whistle• Waterproof matches• Toys, books, puzzles, games• Extra house keys and car keys• List of contact names and phone numbers• Food, water and supplies for pets

Additional items you can store at home for use during an emergency: Cooking supplies • Barbecue, camp stove• Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal or camp

stove fuel• Plastic knives, forks, spoons• Paper plates and cups• Paper towels• Heavy-duty aluminum foilSanitation supplies • Large plastic trash bags for trash, water

protection • Large trash cans• Bar soap and liquid detergent• Shampoo• Toothpaste and toothbrushes• Feminine and infant supplies• Toilet paper• Household bleach with no additives, and

eyedropper (for purifying drinking water)• Newspaper — to wrap garbage and wasteComfort • Sturdy shoes• Gloves for clearing debris• TentTools • Ax, shovel, broom• Crescent wrench for turning off gas• Screwdriver, pliers, hammer• Coil of one-half inch rope• Plastic tape and sheeting• Knife or razor blades• Garden hose for siphoning and fire fighting

7

The first 72 is on you!

Helping Children after a Disaster It’s important to remember some children may never show distress, while others may not give evidence of being upset for several weeks or even months after an emergency. Other children may not show a change in behavior, but may still need your help.

Children who experience an initial traumatic event before they are 11 years old are three times more likely to develop psychological symptoms than those who experience their first trauma later. Children are able to cope better with a traumatic event if parents and other adults support and help them with their experiences. Help should start as soon as possible after the event.

Children may exhibit the following behaviors after a disaster: • Be upset over the loss of a favorite toy or

possession that is important to them. • Change from being quiet, obedient and

caring to loud, noisy and aggressive, or change from being outgoing to shy and afraid.

• Develop night-time fears (nightmares, fear ofthe dark or sleeping alone).

• Be afraid the event will reoccur.• Become easily upset.• Lose trust in adults. (After all, their adults

were not able to control the disaster.)• Revert to younger behavior (bed-wetting,

thumb-sucking).• Want to stay close to parents. Refuse to go

to school or day care.• Feel they caused the disaster because of

something they said or did.• Become afraid of wind, rain or sudden loud

noises.• Have symptoms of illness, such as

headaches, vomiting or fever.• Worry about where they and their family will

live.Things parents can do to help their children: • Talk with children about how they are

feeling. Assure them that it’s okay to have those feelings.

• Help children learn to use words thatexpress their feelings, such as “happy,” “sad,” or “angry.”

• Children should not be expected to be braveor tough. Tell them it is okay to cry.

• Don’t give children more information thanthey can handle about the disaster.

• Assure fearful children you will be there tocare for them; consistently reassure them.

• Go back to former routines as soon aspossible. Maintain a regular schedule for thechildren.

• Reassure children that the disaster was nottheir fault.

• Let children have some control, such aschoosing clothing or what meal to have fordinner.

• Re-establish contact with extended family.• Help your children learn to trust adults again

by keeping promises you make.• Help your children regain faith in the future

by making plans.• Get needed health care as soon as possible.• Spend extra time with your children at

bedtime.• Make sure children eat healthy meals and

get enough rest.• Allow special privileges for a short period of

time, such as leaving the light on when theygo to bed.

• Find ways to emphasize to your children thatyou love them.

• Allow children time to grieve losses.• Develop positive anniversary activities to

commemorate the event. These may bringtears, but they are also a time to celebratesurvival and the ability to get back to anormal life.

8

Take Care of Your Psychological and Emotional Needs It is natural to be upset when you think your health or the health of your loved ones is threatened. Pay attention to your own feelings and take care of your emotional needs, then you can better help friends and family members handle their concerns.

Coping with uncertainty

• Anxiety can be related to fear of the unknown.It is normal to feel anxious and worried duringan emergency.

Everyone reacts differently to an emergency

• People often experience changes in theirphysical, emotional or mental state during andafter emergencies. For example, they mayhave trouble sleeping, experience anger ordepression, or have problems at work orschool. These are among the many normalreactions to an emergency situation. There arethings you can do to cope with theseproblems. However, if these reactions seemextreme or last for a long time, the personsuffering the condition should seek help.

Get reliable information

• When an emergency happens, it is importantto keep things in perspective. Get informationabout the event from:

• Newspaper, radio, television

• Your health care provider

• Your local health department

Here are some ways you can cope with stress and anxiety:

• Limit your exposure to graphic news stories

• Get accurate, timely information fromreliable sources

• Learn more about the specific health hazard

• Maintain your normal routine, if possible

• Avoid drugs and excessive drinking

• Exercise, eat well and get enough sleep

• Stay active physically and mentally

• Stay in touch with family and friends

• If you can, help others

• Keep a sense of humor

• Share your concerns with others

Stay connected

• The fear associated with a public healthemergency can push people apart. Peoplewho are normally close to family and friendsmay avoid contact because they are afraidthey might get sick. It is important to stayconnected with others. Use the phone andemail.

• Ask for help if you need it. If your anxietyabout a health risk gets in the way of yourdaily life, talk to someone you trust. Thismay be your doctor, a family member,friend, clergy member, teacher or mentalhealth professional.

• If you notice a big change in a loved one,friend or co-worker, reach out to them. Makesome time to talk. Watching out for othersshows you care and it can be comforting forboth of you.

• If you or someone you know is having ahard time managing their emotions, seekhelp from a medical or mental healthprofessional.

9

Getting Medicine During a Public Health Emergency The Strategic National Stockpile is a federal government program that provides medication and medical supplies to states during an emergency.

When help is needed fast

• If a disease outbreak, bioterrorism attack ornatural disaster happens in CentralWisconsin, hundreds, possibly thousands, ofpeople will need medical attention to treat orprevent the spread of disease. Local medicalsupplies and medications will be used upquickly during such a public healthemergency.

• The Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)helps meet the need for additional suppliesby quickly delivering large quantities ofcritical emergency medicines and suppliesto states that request them.

Assistance for your community

• In the event of a disaster, outbreak or attack,the Governor/Mayor(s) will ask the federalgovernment to send SNS shipments to yourcommunity. Once help is approved, the SNSwill fill the request from storage facilitiesstrategically located around the country.Supplies can be delivered to any state within12 hours of the request.

• Depending on the type of emergency, theSNS will deliver antibiotics, chemicalantidotes, antitoxins or other medical orsurgical items. Additional drugs and/ormedical supplies can be supplied within thefollowing 24 to 36 hours.

• When SNS shipments are received, stateemergency response workers willimmediately deliver the supplies andmedications directly to the communities thatneed them.

Finding medication during an emergency

• Cities and towns will set up emergencymedication centers (also known as points ofdispensing sites or PODS) where peoplecan pick up the emergency medications orreceive vaccinations. Medication centers willbe located in large public buildings such asschools, arenas or churches in severalgeographic areas to minimize the amount oftime people need to travel to reach them.

• Local public health agencies will announcewhen medication centers will open, where tofind them, how to get there, what to bringand what to expect. You will be able to getthis important information from sources thatinclude:

• Television and radio news; newspapers

• State and local public health and emergencymanagement Web sites

• Community, civic and religiousorganizations.

• Local governments are responsible fordetermining the location of medicationcenters in their areas. In many cases thesesites will not be made public until anemergency occurs. Not all medication centersites will be used for every emergency, so itwill be important to check the resourceslisted above for current information in theevent of an emergency.

At the medication center

• If medication centers are opened todistribute medicine from the StrategicNational Stockpile in an emergency, therewill be no charge to the public.

• Trained staff will be available to assist you atthe medication center.

• The process will be simple.

• Depending on the type of emergency, oneperson may be able to pick up medicationsfor a household or group.

10

Personal Medication Wallet Card

Create your own personalized medication wallet card that documents your important medical information.

Visit www.rxresponse.org/resources/rx-on-the-run.

Protect Your Pets Consider your pets when planning for emergencies. Know where to take your pets in an emergency and remember their needs when creating your family preparedness kit.

Before the disaster

• Find a safe place for your pets to stay. Somehotels and motels may allow you to bringpets; others may suspend their “no pet” rulesduring an emergency. Check ahead to makesure you can bring your pet.

• Make sure your pets wear current ID tags allthe time, and that carriers for each pet arelabeled with contact information. Talk withyour veterinarian about permanentidentification such as microchipping, andenrolling your pet in a recovery database.

• Make sure your pets are current on theirvaccinations. Pet shelters may require proofof vaccines.

During a disaster

• Keep pets in the house as emergencysituations develop so you can locate them.

• Don’t wait until the last minute to get ready.Warnings may be issued hours or days inadvance.

If you evacuate, take your pets

• If it’s not safe for you to stay in the disasterarea, it’s not safe for your pets. Don’t leaveanimals inside your home, chained outsideor roaming loose. They can easily be injured,lost or killed.

• If you leave, take your pet even if you thinkyou’ll be able to come home in just a fewhours.

If you don’t evacuate

• Keep your pets with you in a safe area of yourhome. Keep dogs on leashes and cats incarriers, and make sure they are wearingidentification.

• In case you’re not home during a disaster,arrange well in advance for a trustedneighbor to take your pets. Be sure theperson is comfortable with your pets, knowswhere to find them and your pet emergencysupplies, and has a key to your home.

After the disaster

• For a few days, keep dogs on leashes andcats in carriers inside the house. If yourhouse is damaged, they could escape andbecome lost.

• Be patient with your pets. Re-establish theirroutines as soon as possible. Be ready forbehavioral problems.

Emergency supply list for pets

Have everything ready to go. Store supplies in sturdy easy-to-carry containers. Include:

• Medications, medical records, and first-aid kit– stored in a waterproof container.

• Sturdy leashes and harnesses.

• A secure carrier large enough for your pet tocomfortably stand, turn around, and lie down.Add blankets or towels for bedding.

• Photos of you with your pets to help identifylost pets and prove ownership.

• Food and water for at least seven days foreach pet. Bowls, cat litter and litter box, anda manual can opener.

• Information on feeding schedules, medicalconditions, behavior problems, and the nameand number of your veterinarian.

• Pet beds and toys, if you can easily takethem.

• Newspapers, paper towels, plastic trashbags, grooming items and household bleach.

11

Pandemic Flu

An influenza pandemic is a worldwide outbreak of a new flu virus

• An influenza — or flu — pandemic is anoutbreak of a new type of flu virus thatspreads rapidly from one country to another.Because the virus is new, people don’t have anatural immunity to it and vaccine will not beavailable for many months. Without vaccine orimmunity, the virus passes rapidly from personto person. Hundreds of thousands in ourcountry could get sick, and many could die.

• There have been three large flu pandemics inthe 20th century – 1918, 1957, and 1968. Noone knows where or when the next one willbegin, but health officials agree that it is only amatter of time.

What to expect if an outbreak occurs

• A flu pandemic could be devastating, soeveryone should be prepared for the worst.With up to one-third of the workforce sick orstaying home, supplies and services could belimited or disrupted.

• Extraordinary measures could be required.You may be asked to stay away from otherpeople, large public events like concerts orsports could be canceled, and schools couldbe closed. Health officials may issue orders tokeep people with the virus at home or inspecial facilities. You may be asked to wear amask in medical facilities or other publicplaces.

• A flu pandemic could last a long time. The1918 flu pandemic lasted 18 months.

What to do now

• Be ready to help family and neighbors who areelderly or have special needs if services theydepend on are not available.

• Know school policies about illness andabsence. Make a plan for taking care of yourchildren if schools are closed for long periods.

• Be prepared to stay home from work whenyou are sick. Know work policies about sickleave, absences, time off and telecommuting.

• Explore ways to get your work done withless personal contact, such as increaseduse of e-mail and phone conferences.

• Be prepared to get by for a week or more onwhat you have at home. Stores may not beopen or may have limited supplies.

• Plan to limit the number of trips you take toshop or to run errands.

Prevent the spread of germs

• The flu virus is spread from person toperson when an infected person coughs,sneezes, or touches things that others use.To protect yourself and others:

• Cover your mouth and nose when youcough or sneeze. Cough into your sleeve orcover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

• Wash your hands. Soap and warm water arebest, but alcohol-based hand gel ordisposable wipes also work.

• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Theflu virus is often spread when a persontouches something that has the flu virus on itand then touches his or her eyes, nose ormouth.

• Stay home when you’re sick or have flusymptoms. Drink extra water, get plenty ofrest, and check with a health care provideras needed.

Learn home-care basics

• Know how to care for someone with fever,body aches, and lung congestion. During apandemic, follow health official’sinstructions.

• Learn about dehydration. The flu viruscauses the body to lose water through feverand sweating. Watch for weakness, fainting,dry mouth, dark concentrated urine, lowblood pressure, or a fast pulse when lying orsitting down. These are signs ofdehydration. To prevent dehydration, it isvery important for a person with the flu todrink a lot of water — up to 12 glasses aday.

12

Shelter-in-Place If a chemical agent attack happens, authorities will instruct people to either seek shelter where they are and seal the premises (shelter-in-place), or evacuate immediately. If ordered to remain in your home, office or school, follow these directions to “shelter-in-place.”

Go inside. Close all windows and doors.

Turn off ventilation systems (heating and air-conditioning,

and fireplace dampers).

Go into a room with the fewest doors and windows and seal the room.

Stay in the room until told by the authorities that it is safe to come out.

How to shelter-in-place

• Dampen towels and place over the cracksunder doors.

• Duct tape around the door.

• Turn on the radio.

• Don’t air out or leave your sealed shelteruntil you are told do so.

Remember

• If ordered to evacuate, do so immediatelyand carefully follow directions. Do notwander about; know where you are goingand how to get there.

• Avoiding chemical exposure should be yourprimary goal. Leaving your sheltered area torescue or assist victims can be a deadlydecision.

• In a chemical emergency, there is very littlean untrained volunteer can do to helpvictims. Stay in your sheltered area untilauthorities determine it is safe to come out.

• If you were outside before taking shelter andthink you may have been exposed to achemical agent, there are several things youcan do. If you are in a sealed shelter, takeoff at least your outer clothes, put them in aplastic bag and seal the bag. If water isavailable, wash or take a cool to warm (nothot) shower, using lots of soap and water.Do not put the soap in your eyes, just lots ofwater. If you leave the area, tell emergencyresponders or medical staff at yourdestination you may have been exposed.Tell the emergency responders about thesealed bag so that they can arrange for itssafe removal after the emergency.

15

Disaster Tips for People with Special Medical Needs In a disaster, people with special medical needs have extra concerns. This information will help you and your family prepare for an emergency.

Medications

• Always have at least a three-day supply ofall your medications. In some emergencies,such as an influenza pandemic, you mayneed to prepare for a week or more.

• Store your medications in one location intheir original containers.

• Have a list of all of your medications: nameof medication, dose, frequency, and thename of the prescribing doctor.

Medical supplies

• Have an extra three-day supply of anymedical supplies you use, such asbandages, ostomy bags or syringes.

Electrically powered medical equipment

• For all medical equipment requiringelectrical power — beds, breathingequipment, or infusion pumps — check withyour medical supply company and getinformation regarding a back-up powersource such as a battery or generator.

Oxygen and breathing equipment

• If you use oxygen, have an emergencysupply (enough for at least a three-dayperiod).

• Oxygen tanks should be securely braced sothey do not fall over. Call your medicalsupply company regarding bracinginstructions.

• If you use breathing equipment, have athree-day supply or more of tubing, solutionsand medications.

Intravenous (IV) and feeding tube equipment

• Know if your infusion pump has batteryback-up, and how long it would last in anemergency.

• Ask your home care provider about manualinfusion techniques in case of a poweroutage.

• Have written operating instructions attachedto all equipment.

Emergency bag In the event that you have to leave your home, have a bag packed at all times that contains:

• A medication list.

• Medical supplies for at least three days.

• Copies of vital medical papers such asinsurance cards and power of attorney.

People who can help

• An important part of being prepared for adisaster is planning with family, friends andneighbors. Know who could walk to yourhome to assist you if no other means oftransportation is available.

• Discuss your disaster plans with your homehealth care provider.

• Ask your local fire department if they keep alist of people with special medical needs;ask to be included if they do maintain a list.

• Keep a phone contact list handy of peoplewho can help.

16

Disaster Tips for People with Visual Disabilities

Canes

• If you use a cane, keep extras in strategic,consistent, and secured locations at work,home, school and volunteer site to help youmaneuver around obstacles and hazards.

• Keep a spare cane in your emergency kit.

Alternative mobility cues

• If you have some vision, place security lightsin each room to light paths of travel. Theselights plug into electric wall outlets and lightup automatically if there is a loss of power.They will, depending on type, continue tooperate automatically for 1 to 6 hours andcan be turned off manually and used as ashort-lasting flashlight.

• Store high-powered flashlights with widebeams and extra batteries.

• Plan for losing the auditory clues you usuallyrely on after a major disaster.

• Service animals may become confused,frightened or disoriented during and after adisaster. Keep them confined or securelyleashed or harnessed. A leash/harness is animportant item for managing a nervous orupset animal. Be prepared to use alternativeways to negotiate your environment.

Label supplies

• If helpful, mark emergency supplies withlarge print, fluorescent tape or Braille.

Secure computers

• Anchor special equipment and large piecesof furniture such as computers and shelving.Create a computer back-up system forimportant data and store it off site.

Advocacy issues

• Advocate that TV news not only postimportant phone numbers, but alsoannounce them slowly and repeat themfrequently for people who cannot read thescreen.

17

Disaster Tips for the Hearing Impaired

Hearing aids

• Store hearing aid(s) in a strategic, consistentand secured location so they can be foundand used after a disaster.

• For example, consider storing them in acontainer by your bedside, which is attachedto a nightstand or bedpost using a string orVelcro. Missing or damaged hearing aids willbe difficult to replace or fix immediately aftera major disaster.

Batteries

• Store extra batteries for hearing aids andimplants. If available, store an extra hearingaid with your emergency supplies.

• Maintain TTY batteries. Consult your manualfor information.

• Store extra batteries for your TTY and lightphone signaler. Check the owner’s manualfor proper battery maintenance.

Communication

• Determine how you will communicate withemergency personnel if there is nointerpreter or if you don’t have your hearingaids. Store paper and pens for this purpose.

• Consider carrying a pre-printed copy ofimportant messages with you, such as: “Ispeak American Sign Language (ASL) andneed an ASL interpreter,” “I do not write orread English,” and “If you makeannouncements, I will need to have themwritten or signed.”

• If possible, obtain a battery-operatedtelevision that has a decoder chip for accessto signed or captioned emergency reports.

• Determine which broadcasting systems willbe accessible in terms of continuous newsthat will be captioned and/or signed.Advocate so that television stations have aplan to secure emergency interpreters foron-camera duty.

Alarms

• Install both audible alarms and visual smokealarms. At least one should be batteryoperated.

• Advocacy

• Recruit interpreters to be AmericanRed Cross emergency volunteers.

• Encourage TV stations to broadcast all newsand emergency information in open captionformat.

• When you travel, ensure hotels haveservices for deaf and hearing-impairedpersons, including visual alarms. Ask forthem when you check in.

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Disaster Tips for People with Mobility Disabilities

Storage

• Store emergency supplies in a pack orbackpack attached to a walker, wheelchairor scooter.

• Store needed mobility aids (canes, crutches,walkers, wheelchairs) close to you in aconsistent, convenient and secured location.Keep extra aids in several locations, ifpossible.

Emergency supply kit

• Keep a pair of heavy gloves in your supplykit to use while wheeling or making your wayover glass or debris.

• If you use a motorized wheelchair orscooter, consider having an extra batteryavailable. A car battery can be substitutedfor a wheelchair battery, but this type ofbattery will not last as long as a wheelchair’sdeep-cycle battery. Check with your vendorto see if you will be able to charge batteriesby either connecting jumper cables to avehicle battery or by connecting batteries toa specific type of converter that plugs intoyour vehicle’s cigarette lighter in the event ofloss of electricity.

• If your chair does not have puncture-prooftires, keep a patch kit or can of “seal-in” airproduct to repair flat tires, or keep an extrasupply of inner tubes.

• Store a lightweight manual wheelchair, ifavailable.

• Make sure furniture is secured so that itdoesn’t block the pathways you normallytravel.

• If you spend time above the first floor of abuilding with an elevator, plan and practiceusing alternative methods of evacuation. Ifneeded, enlist the help of your personalsupport network.

• If you cannot use stairs, discuss lifting andcarrying techniques that will work for you.There will be times when wheelchair userswill have to leave their chairs behind in orderto safely evacuate a structure.

• Sometimes transporting someone downstairs is not a practical solution unless thereare at least two or more strong people tocontrol the chair. It is very important todiscuss the safest way to transport you ifyou need to be carried, and alert helpers toany areas of vulnerability. For example, thetraditional “firefighter’s carry” may behazardous for some people with respiratoryweakness.

• Be prepared to give helpers briefinstructions on the best way to move you.

19

Prevent the Spread of Germs Here are some simple tips to help keep respiratory infections and many other contagious diseases from spreading, especially during the cough, cold and “flu” season.

Respiratory infections affect the nose, throat and lungs; they include influenza (the “flu”), colds and pertussis (whooping cough). The germs (viruses and bacteria) that cause these infections are spread from person to person in droplets from the nose, throat and lungs of someone who is sick.

You can help stop the spread of these germs by practicing “respiratory etiquette,” or good health manners.

Here are some tips to help prevent spreading your germs to others, and to avoid catching someone else’s germs.

Keep your germs to yourself • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue

when sneezing, coughing or blowing yournose.

• Discard used tissues in the trash as soon asyou can.

• Always wash your hands after sneezing,blowing your nose, or coughing, or aftertouching used tissues or handkerchiefs.Wash hands often if you are sick.

• Use warm water and soap or alcohol-basedhand sanitizers to wash your hands.

• Try to stay home if you have a cough andfever.

• See your doctor as soon as you can if youhave a cough and fever, and follow theirinstructions. Take medicine as prescribedand get lots of rest.

• If asked, use face masks provided in yourdoctor’s office or clinic’s waiting room.Follow office and clinic staff’s instructions tohelp stop the spread of germs.

Keep the germs away • Wash your hands before eating, or touching

your eyes, nose or mouth.• Wash your hands after touching anyone who

is sneezing, coughing or blowing their nose.• Don’t share things like towels, lipstick, toys,

or anything else that might be contaminatedwith respiratory germs.

• Don’t share food, utensils or beveragecontainers with others.

20

Accidental Poisoning Poisons can be found in everyday items located in all areas of your home – kitchen, closets, bathrooms, attic, garage, dining room, laundry room, storage areas and basements. To help prevent accidental poisoning, follow these poison prevention tips.

Within the United States, if you have a poison emergency or a question about poisons, call 1-800-222-1222

Poison prevention tips • Use child-resistant containers (but

remember: child-resistant containers are notcompletely childproof).

• Keep potentially poisonous products in theiroriginal containers (see below for productlist).

• Place potentially poisonous products out ofreach immediately after use.

• Put Mr. Yuk stickers on all poisonousproducts in and around your home, andteach children what the stickers mean.

• For more information on Mr. Yuk — visit:http://www.chp.edu/mryuk/05a_mryuk.php

• For a free sheet of Mr. Yuk stickers, send aself-addressed, stamped business-size(#10) envelope to:

Free Mr. Yuk Stickers Pittsburgh Poison Center 3705 Fifth Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• Keep emergency numbers, including thePoison Center toll-free number, next to yourphone.

Make sure these products are stored safely • Prescription and over-the-counter

medications (including aspirin and vitamins).• Disinfectants, deodorants and air

fresheners.

• All kinds of sprays.• Polishes and cleansing powder.• Fertilizers and weed killers.• Insect and rodent poison; slug bait.• Paint remover and turpentine.• Cosmetics.• Soaps, detergents and shampoo.• Toilet bowl and drain cleaners.• Lye and bleach.• Kerosene and lighter fluids.• Insect repellent.• Mothballs and pesticides.Note: Special care should also be taken with house plants as many may be poisonous if eaten by humans or pets. What to do when someone is poisoned • If it is a life-threatening emergency, call

9-1-1. If you suspect a possible poisoning —or for more information on potential poisons— call 1-800-222-1222.

Be prepared to answer the following questions • What was taken? (Exact name of the

product.) Bring product container to thephone if possible.

• When was it taken?• How much was taken?• Who took it? Body size makes a big

difference in determining a poisonous dose.• The name, condition, age and weight of the

patient.• Address and telephone number from where

you are calling.

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http://www.chp.edu/mryuk/05a_mryuk.php

Floods Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. If you live in an area where floods occur, you should know the following:

What to do before a flood

• Plan for evacuation including where you aregoing to go and the route you will follow.

• Purchase flood insurance.

• Keep all insurance policies and a list ofvaluable items in a safe place.

• Take photos or a videotape of the valuablesyou keep in your home.

• Listen to your radio or television for reportsof flood danger.

• Keep your car filled with gas.

What to do during a flood

• Do not try to walk or drive through floodedareas. Water can be deeper than it appearsand water levels rise quickly. Follow officialemergency evacuation routes. If your carstalls in floodwater, get out quickly andmove to higher ground.

• Stay away from moving water; moving watersix inches deep can sweep you off your feet.Cars are easily swept away in just two feetof water.

• Stay away from disaster areas unlessauthorities ask for volunteers.

• Stay away from downed power lines.

• If your home is flooded, turn the utilities offuntil emergency officials tell you it is safe toturn them on. Do not pump the basementout until floodwater recedes. Avoidweakened floors, walls and rooftops.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap andclean water if you come in contact withfloodwaters.

What to do after a flood

• Wear gloves and boots when cleaning up.

• Open all doors and windows. Use fans ifpossible to air out the building. Wash allclothes and linens in hot water.

• Discard mattresses and stuffed furniture;they can’t be adequately cleaned.

• Wash dirt and mud from walls, counters andhard surfaced floors with soap and water.Disinfect by wiping surfaces with a solutionof one cup bleach per gallon of water.

• Discard all food that has come into contactwith floodwater. Canned food is alright, butthoroughly wash the can before opening.

• If your well is flooded, your tap water isprobably unsafe. If you have public water,the health department will let you know —through radio and television — if your wateris not safe to drink. Until your water is safe,use clean bottled water.

• Learn how to purify water. If you have a well,learn how to decontaminate it.

• Do not use your septic system when water isstanding on the ground around it. Theground below will not absorb water fromsinks or toilets. When the soil has dried, it isprobably safe to again use your septicsystem. To be sure, contact your localhealth department.

• When floodwaters have receded, watch outfor weakened road surfaces.

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Hot Weather Precautions Severe heat may cause illness or even death. When temperatures rise to extreme highs, reduce risks by taking the following precautions:

Hot weather precautions to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

• Stay indoors and in an air-conditionedenvironment as much as possible unlessyou’re sure your body has a high tolerancefor heat.

• Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beveragesthat contain alcohol, caffeine or a lot ofsugar.

• Eat more frequently but make sure mealsare balanced and light.

• Never leave any person or pet in a parkedvehicle.

• Avoid dressing babies in heavy clothing orwrapping them in warm blankets.

• Check frequently on people who are elderly,ill or who may need help. If you might needhelp, arrange to have family, friends orneighbors check in with you at least twice aday throughout warm weather periods.

• Make sure pets have plenty of water.

• Salt tablets should only be taken if specifiedby your doctor. If you are on a salt-restrictivediet, check with a doctor before increasingsalt intake.

• If you take prescription diuretics,antihistamines, mood-altering orantispasmodic drugs, check with a doctorabout the effects of sun and heat exposure.

• Cover windows that receive morning orafternoon sun. Awnings or louvers canreduce the heat entering a house by asmuch as 80 percent.

If you go outside

• Plan strenuous outdoor activities for early orlate in the day when temperatures arecooler; then gradually build up tolerance forwarmer conditions.

• Take frequent breaks when workingoutdoors.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sun block andlight-colored, loose-fitting clothes whenoutdoors.

• At first signs of heat illness (dizziness,nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), moveto a cooler location, rest for a few minutesand slowly drink a cool beverage. Seekmedical attention immediately if you do notfeel better.

• Avoid sunburn: it slows the skin’s ability tocool itself. Use a sunscreen lotion with ahigh SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

• Avoid extreme temperature changes. A coolshower immediately after coming in from hottemperatures can result in hypothermia,particularly for elderly or very young people.

If the power goes out or air conditioning is not available

• If air conditioning is not available, stay onthe lowest floor out of the sunshine.

• Ask your doctor about any prescriptionmedicine you keep refrigerated. (If thepower goes out, most medicine will be fineto leave in a closed refrigerator for at leastthree hours.)

• Keep a few bottles of water in your freezer; ifthe power goes out, move them to yourrefrigerator and keep the doors shut.

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Windstorms Central Wisconsin is not immune to storms producing strong winds. By taking action now, you can save lives and reduce the damage caused by windstorms and other weather-related hazards.

What to do before a windstorm

• Contact your local emergency managementoffice or the National Weather Service tofind out what types of storms are most likelyto occur in your community.

• Assemble a disaster supply kit.

• Contact vendors to learn the proper use ofhome generators.

• Find out who in your area might needspecial assistance, specifically the elderly,disabled, and non-English speakingneighbors.

• Check with your veterinarian for animal careinstructions in an emergency situation.

• If you live on a coastal or inland shoreline,be familiar with evacuation routes.

• Know what emergency plans are in place atyour workplace, school and daycare center.

• Conduct a home safety evaluation to find outwhich nearby trees could fall in a windstorm.

• If you have an electric garage door opener,locate the manual override.

• What to do during a windstorm

• Don’t panic. Take quick action to protectyourself and help others.

• Turn off the stove if you’re cooking when thepower goes out, and turn off natural gasappliances.

• If you are indoors, move away from windowsor objects that could fall. Go to lower floorsin multi-story homes.

• If you are outdoors, move into a building.Avoid downed electric power lines, utilitypoles and trees.

• If you are driving, pull off the road and stopaway from trees. If possible, walk into a safebuilding. Avoid overpasses, power lines andother hazards.

• Listen to your radio for emergencyinstructions.

What to do after a windstorm

• Check yourself and those around you forinjuries.

• Evacuate damaged buildings. Do not re-enter until declared safe by authorities.

• Call 9-1-1 only to report a life threateningemergency.

• If you smell gas or hear a hissing soundindoors — open windows and leave thebuilding. Turn off the gas source and callyour gas company. Do not use matches,candles, open flames or electric switchesindoors.

• If the power goes out, keep refrigerator andfreezer doors closed to keep food frozen forup to two days.

• Provide assistance to your neighbors,especially the elderly or disabled.

• Try to make contact with your out-of-areaphone contact, but avoid making localtelephone calls.

• Monitor your portable or NOAA weatherradio for instructions or an official “all clear”notice. Radio stations will broadcast what todo, the location of emergency shelters andmedical aid stations, and the extent ofdamage.

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Winter Storms Winter storms can range from moderate snow over a few hours to blizzard conditions with blinding, wind-driven snow or freezing rain that lasts several days. The time to prepare is before the snow falls or ice forms.

Preparing for winter storms • Listen to your radio or television for winter

storm forecasts and other information.• Prepare your home for cold weather. Install

storm windows. Insulate outside walls, atticsand crawl spaces. Wrap pipes, especiallythose near cold outer walls or in attics orcrawl spaces. Repair leaks in the roof,around the doors and in the windows.

• Ha ve a ppropria te cold we a the r clothingavailable.

• If you ha ve a ke ros e ne he a te r, re fue l yourheater outside and remember to keep it atleast three feet from flammable objects.

• Ma ke s ure your fire pla ce functionsproperly.

• Ha ve rock s a lt a nd s a nd on hand fortraction on ice.

• Fill your ga s ta nk be fore the s now s ta rtsfalling.

During a winter storm • We a r s e ve ra l la ye rs of loos e fitting, light

weight, warm clothing rather than one layerof heavy clothing. Wear mittens rather thangloves. Wear a warm, woolen cap.

• Do not drive unne ce s s a rily.

• Re duce the te mpe ra ture in your home toconserve fuel.

• He a t only the a re a s of your home you a reusing. Close doors and curtains or coverwindows and doors with blankets.

• Us e a lte rna tive he a t me thods s a fe ly.Never use a gas or charcoal grill, hibachi orportable propane heater to cook indoors orheat your home.

• Be careful when shoveling snow. Do notoverexert yourself.

• Be s ure to e a t re gula rly. Food provide scalories that maintain body heat.

• Wa tch for s igns of frostbite andhypothermia — slurred speech,disorientation, uncontrollable shivering,stumbling, drowsiness and bodytemperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit orless.

• If you be come tra ppe d outs ide , ge t out ofthe wind and stay dry. Build a lean-to orsnow cave if nothing else is available. Donot eat snow; it will make you too cold.

If in your vehicle • Ma ke s ure s ome one knows whe re you a re

going. Stay on the main roads.• If you mus t s top, re ma in ins ide the ve hicle .

Use a bright distress flag or your hazardlights to draw attention to your vehicle.

• If tra ppe d in a blizza rd, cle a r your ta il pipeand run your engine and heater for 10minutes every hour. Open your windowslightly.

• During night hours , ke e p the dome light onin the car so rescue crews can see yourvehicle.

• Ke e p a n e me rge ncy kit in your ve hicle .Include a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food that can be eaten withoutbeing cooked. Include a blanket or sleepingbag for each passenger, a flashlight, cellphone, shovel, sack of sand or kitty litter,booster cables, flare, coffee can with lid andtoilet paper.

25

Household Fires Fires in homes are most often caused by cooking accidents, smoking or unsafe use of woodstoves or space heaters. Here are some things you can do to avoid a home fire or protect yourself during a fire.

Protecting against fires

• Install smoke detectors in or near allsleeping areas and on every level of yourhome, including the basement. Checksmoke detectors on a regular basis andreplace the batteries twice yearly.

• Have A-B-C type fire extinguishers. Teachfamily members how to use them.

• Know the location of all exits includingwindows. If you live in an apartment, countthe number of doorways between yourapartment and the two nearest exits.

• Know two ways out of every room in casesmoke or flames block your primary exit.

• Choose a meeting place outside the home.

• Have an escape plan and practice it withyour family. This will help ensure you canget out quickly when there is no time formistakes.

• Keep folding or chain style ladders stored ineach upstairs bedroom.

• Use alternative heat sources, such aswoodstoves or space heaters, safely:

• Never use gas ovens, gas ranges,barbecues, or most portable or propaneheaters for indoor heating.

• Before using an alternative heat source,read the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Do not smoke in the bedroom, on the couchor anywhere you might fall asleep whilesmoking.

• Sleep with your bedroom door closed.

• Make sure your house number is clearlyvisible from the street and that fire truckscan reach your home.

• Have fire-fighting materials available: drypowder, fire extinguisher, heavy tarp orblanket, and water.

If fire strikes

• If there is a fire — evacuate. Do not go backinside. Call 9-1-1 from a neighbor’s house.

• Never use water on an electrical fire.

• Smother oil and grease fires in the kitchenwith baking soda or salt, or put a lid over theflame if it is burning in a pan.

• If caught in smoke — drop to your handsand knees and crawl; breathe shallowlythrough your nose and use your blouse, shirtor jacket as a filter.

• If you must move through flames — holdyour breath, move quickly, cover your headand hair, keep your head down and closeyour eyes as much as possible.

• If your clothes catch fire, “stop, drop and roll”until the fire is out.

• If you are in a room and cannot escape,leave the door closed, stay low to the floorand hang a white or light-colored sheetoutside the window.

• Be sure all family members are accountedfor. If someone is missing, let the firedepartment know.

26

Power Outages Power outages can cause a number of safety concerns. Knowing the following information can help.

Before a power outage

• Register life-sustaining and medicalequipment with your utility company.

• Consider buying a generator. Wheninstalling a generator, follow the instructionscarefully. Keep your generator outside andrun a cord inside. Don’t connect yourgenerator to main service panels — it’sdangerous!

• Make sure your disaster preparedness kitcontains light sticks, flashlights, a battery-powered radio with extra batteries and awind-up clock.

• Have a corded telephone available —cordless phones will not work when thepower is out.

• Have an alternative heat source and supplyof fuel.

• If you own an electric garage door opener,know how to open the door without power.

During a power outage

• Turn off lights and electrical appliancesexcept for the refrigerator and freezer. Evenif it is dark, turn light switches and buttonson lamps or appliances to the “off” position.

• Unplug computers and other sensitiveequipment to protect them from possiblesurges when the power is restored.

• Leave one lamp on so you will know whenpower is restored. Wait at least 15 minutesafter power is restored before turning onother appliances.

• Conserve water, especially if you use wellwater.

• Never use gas ovens, gas ranges,barbecues or portable or propane heatersfor indoor heating—they use oxygen andcreate carbon monoxide that can causesuffocation.

• Candles can cause a fire. It’s far better touse battery-operated flashlights or glowsticks for lighting.

• Using a kerosene heater, gas lantern orstove inside the house can be dangerous.Maintain proper ventilation at all times toavoid a build up of toxic fumes.

• Stay away from downed power lines andsagging trees with broken limbs.

Keep food safe

• Use and store food carefully to prevent food-borne illness when power outages makerefrigeration unavailable.

• Use foods first that can spoil most rapidly.

• Keep doors to refrigerators closed. Yourrefrigerator’s freezer will keep food frozenfor up to a day. A separate fully-loadedfreezer will keep food frozen for two days.

• Use an ice chest packed with ice or snow tokeep food cold. Buy dry ice to save frozenfood. Do not handle dry ice with your barehands. Use blocks or bags of ice to saverefrigerator foods.

• Use caution if storing food outside duringwinter to keep it cold. The outsidetemperature varies, especially in the sun.Frozen food may thaw and refrigerator foodmay become warm enough to grow bacteria.Food stored outside must be secured fromcontamination by animals.

If in doubt, throw it out

• Never taste suspect food. Even if food looksand smells fine, illness-causing bacteria maybe present.

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Using a Generator during Power Outages

Don’t overload your generator • Determine the amount of power you will

need to operate those things you plan to connect to the generator.

• Light bulb wattage indicates the powerneeded for lighting. Appliance and equipment labels indicate their power requirements.

• If you can’t determine the amount of poweryou will need; ask an electrician.

• Make sure your generator produces morepower than will be drawn by the things you connect to the generator including the initial surge when it is turned on. If your generator does not produce enough power to operate everything at once, stagger the use of your equipment.

• If your equipment draws more power thanthe generator can produce, you may blow a fuse on the generator or damage the connected equipment.

Use your generator safely • Incorrect generator use can lead to carbon

monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator.

Never use a portable generator indoors • Never use a portable generator in a garage,

carport, basement, crawlspace or other enclosed or partially-enclosed area, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home.

• If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak whileusing a generator, get to fresh air right away — do not delay!.

• Install home CO alarms that are battery-operated or have battery back-up. Test batteries frequently and replace when needed.

Using your generator outdoors • Place the generator away from windows,

doors, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors.

• To avoidelectrocution, keepthe generator dry.Do not use in rainor wet conditions.Operate it on a drysurface under anopen canopy-like structure. Make sure yourhands are dry before touching the generator.

Use and store generator fuel safely • Turn the generator off and let it cool before

refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.

• Store generator fuel in an approved safetycan outside of living areas in a locked shed or other protected area. Local laws may restrict use or storage of fuel. Ask your local fire department for information.

• If you spill fuel or do not seal its containerproperly, invisible vapors can travel along the ground and be ignited by an appliance’s pilot light or arcs from electric switches in the appliance.

• Use the type of fuel recommended in thegenerator instructions or on its label.

Connect your generator correctly • Plug appliances directly into the generator,

or use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.

• Never try to power house wiring by pluggingthe generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as “back feeding.” It can lead to the electrocution of utility workers or neighbors served by the same utility transformer.

• The only safe way to connect a generator tohouse wiring is to have a qualified electrician install a power transfer switch.

The safest way to get emergency power • Permanently installed stationary generators

are the best way to provide home backup power during a power outage.

28

Purifying Household Water The treatments described below work only in situations where the water is unsafe because of the presence of bacteria or viruses. If you suspect the water is unsafe because of chemicals, oils, poisonous substances, sewage, or other contaminants, do not use the water for drinking.

Storing water safely

• Store one gallon of water per person perday.

• Store at least a three-day supply of waterper person.

• Collect the water from a safe supply.

• Thoroughly washed plastic containers suchas soft drink bottles are best. You can alsopurchase food-grade plastic buckets ordrums.

• Seal water containers tightly, label with date,and store in a cool, dark place.

• Replace water every six months.

• Never reuse a container that contained toxicmaterials such as pesticides, solvents,chemicals, oil or antifreeze.

Water purification

• There are two primary ways to treat water:boiling and adding bleach. If tap water isunsafe because of surface watercontamination (from floods, streams orlakes), boiling is the best method.

• Cloudy water should be filtered beforeboiling or adding bleach.

• Filter water using coffee filters, paper towels,cheese cloth or a cotton plug in a funnel.

Boiling

• Boiling is the safest way to purify water.

• Bring the water to a rolling boil for 3-5minutes.

• Let the water cool before drinking.

Purifying by adding liquid chlorine bleach

• If boiling is not possible, treat water byadding liquid household bleach, such asClorox™ or Purex™. Household bleach istypically between 5 percent and 6 percentchlorine. Avoid using bleaches that containperfumes, dyes and other additives. Be sureto read the label.

• Place the water (filtered, if necessary) in aclean container. Add the amount of bleachaccording to the table below.

• Mix thoroughly and allow to stand for at least30 minutes before using (60 minutes if thewater is cloudy or very cold).

Treating Water with a 5-6 Percent Liquid Chlorine Bleach Solution

Volume of Water to be Treated

Treating Clear/Cloudy Water: Bleach Solution to Add

Treating Very Cold, or Surface Water: Bleach Solution to Add

1 quart/1 liter 3 drops 5 drops

1/2 gallon/2 quarts/2 liters 5 drops 10 drops

1 gallon 1/8 tsp 1/4 tsp

5 gallons 1/2 tsp 1 tsp

10 gallons 1 tsp 2 tsp

29

Turning Off Utilities When disaster strikes, it often affects one or more of the utilities in your home. It is important to know where the main controls are located, and when and how to turn them off.

Electricity

• Locate your main electrical switch or fusepanel, and learn how to turn off the electricalpower system.

• If a generator is used as a backup powersupply, remember to follow themanufacturer’s instructions. Connect lightsand appliances directly to the generator andnot to the electrical system.

Water

• Turn off water at the main meter or at thewater main leading into the house. This willprevent contaminated water from enteringyour water heater and plumbing.

• Turn off the valve — turn to the right. Thiswill require a special valve wrench, availablefrom a hardware store. Make sure you havethe tool readily available.

• Sewer system

• Make sure your sewer system is functioningproperly before using it. This will prevent thecontamination of your home, and possibly,the drinking water supply.

Gas meter (illustration below)

• Locate your gas meter and valve.

• Have a wrench immediately available forturning off the gas supply.

• If you smell natural or propane gas,evacuate immediately and leave the area.Go to where you no longer smell gas. Do notuse matches, lighters, open flameappliances or operate electrical switches.Sparks could ignite gas causing anexplosion.

• Shut off gas only if you smell gas or hear ahissing noise. Contact the gas company toturn the gas back on.

It is best to learn how to turn off household utilities before disaster strikes!

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Securing Your Water Heater Fresh water after a disaster may be as close as your water heater — provided, of course, it remains standing upright. You can protect this valuable resource by securing your water heater to the wall studs.

First, check for plumbers’ tape Experts modified the procedure for strapping water heaters following the 1989 Loma Prieta and 1994 Northridge earthquake. Prior to this, a single strap of plumbers’ tape was commonly used. Because so many tanks burst through this strapping, experts now recommend:

• Secure both the top and the bottom, ratherthan just the top or just the middle, of thetank.

• Use heavy-gauge metal strapping ratherthan plumbers’ tape. PLUMBERS’ TAPE —it is not strong enough to prevent waterheaters from tipping over.

• Replace all copper and metal piping withflexible natural gas and water lineconnectors.

Second, secure tank with heavy-gauge metal straps, top and bottom

• Commercially available strapping kits makethis a relatively easy process. These can befound in many hardware stores on the aisledisplaying the water heaters.

• These kits come complete with thestrapping, lag screws, washers, spacers andtension bolts.

• You can also choose to assemble thestrapping materials yourself using heavy-gage metal straps and 3-inch lag screws.

• To prevent the tank from tipping backwards,there should be very little space between itand the wall. If there is more than 1 or 2inches, attach a wooden block to the wallwith long lag screws.

• Wrap the heavy-gauge metal strapping 1-1/2times around the tank. Start by placing thestrapping at the back of the tank. Bring it tothe front and then take it back to the wall.

• Secure this strapping to the wall studs or thewood block using several 1/4-inch x 3-inchor longer lag screws with oversizedwashers.

• If you are securing it directly into concrete,use 1/4-inch expansion bolts in place of thescrews.

An emergency source of water

• Water can easily be accessed by connectinga garden hose to the drain spout, and byopening a faucet somewhere in the house.

• Make sure the electricity or natural gas is offbefore opening the drain.

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About Terrorism Terrorists look for visible targets where they can avoid detection before or after an attack such as international airports, large cities, major public events, resorts, and high-profile landmarks. Preparing for terrorism is critical, just as for other types of disasters.

• Be aware of your surroundings.• If you see what appears to be a dangerous

situation, call 9-1-1 and explain yourconcerns to a 9-1-1 operator. The operatorwill help determine what actions should betaken.

• Take precautions when traveling. Be awareof conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do notaccept packages from strangers. Do notleave your luggage unattended.

• Learn where emergency exits are located,and how to quickly evacuate a building,transportation corridor or congested publicarea.

• Stay clear of heavy or breakable objects thatcould move, fall or break in an explosion.

Prepare for building explosion The use of explosives by terrorists can result in

collapsed buildings and fires. People who live or work in a multi-level building should follow these guidelines:

• Learn the emergency evacuationprocedures that are in place.

• Keep fire extinguishers in working order.Know where they are located and how touse them.

• Learn first aid and CPR.• Businesses and organizations should keep

and maintain a disaster supply kit on eachfloor of their buildings.

If an explosion occurs • Immediately get under a sturdy table or desk if

things are falling around you.• Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first

along the ceiling. Stay below the smoke at alltimes.

If trapped in debris • If you have a flashlight, use it to help rescuers

locate you.• Stay in your area so that you don’t kick up dust.• Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or

clothing.• Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can

locate you. Use a whistle if one is available.Shout only as a last resort — shouting cancause a person to inhale dangerous amounts ofdust.

If there is a fire • Stay low to the floor and exit the building as

quickly and calmly as possible.• Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth, if

possible.• Test closed doors for heat with the palm of your

hand and forearm on the lower and upperportions of the door. If it is not hot, braceyourself against the door and open it slowly. If itis hot or warm to the touch, do not open thedoor. Seek an alternate escape route.

Biological agents • Biological agents are organisms or toxins that

may harm people, livestock or crops. Becausebiological agents cannot necessarily bedetected and may take time to grow and causedisease, it may be difficult to determine that abiological attack has occurred.

• A person affected by a biological agent requiresthe immediate attention of professional medicalpersonnel. Some agents are contagious andvictims may need to be quarantined. Somemedical facilities may not be receiving victimsfor fear of contaminating the hospitalpopulation.

More information is available at www.bt.cdc.gov/ and www.ready.gov.

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September 11, 2001World Trade Center New York City, NYPhoto by: Robert J. Fisch

http://www.bt.cedc.gov/


Radiation Exposure One possible source of radiation exposure is a “dirty bomb.” A dirty bomb is a small explosive device packaged with radioactive materials. During any event that releases radiation, your best protection is to follow the recommendations of authorities.

Stay inside • Stay inside your home or office unless

instructed by civil authorities to leave. Close the windows, turn off the heating or air-conditioning, and stay near the center of the building. Once the initial blast is over, radioactive materials may be spread in the smoke and debris in the air. By staying inside you will reduce any potential exposure to airborne radioactive material. If there is a basement, go there.

Listen to the radio • When you learn that radioactive materials

have been released in an area near you— either accidentally or intentionally—tune your radio to the emergency broadcasting network for instructions. Government agencies will let you know how to protect yourself. Keep a battery-powered radio handy in case electrical power goes out in your area.

Follow instructions • The best way to avoid exposure to radiation

is to do what experts advise. If told to evacuate, do so promptly. Take items you will need for an extended absence, such as prescription medicines and clothing. Listen for news about the location of the radioactive cloud. Even if it has already passed, radioactive contamination may have fallen on the ground and experts will recommend the best ways to safely leave the area.

If you suspect you are contaminated • If you believe you have been exposed to

radioactive materials, you should carefully remove your outer layer of clothing and put it in a plastic bag; then take a warm shower to rinse off any radioactive materials. Place the sealed plastic bag in a room away from people.

Seek help if needed • Special assistance centers will be set up as

soon as possible. Center locations will be made available through the media and on health department and other emergency service Web sites. If this information is not yet available, go to a police or fire station located outside of the affected area. If you were near the explosion or believe you were in the path of the cloud, tell the staff at the station or assistance center.

Watch what you eat • Avoid drinking fresh milk or eating fruits and

vegetables grown in the affected area. Wait until the Department of Health announces that produce and dairy products are safe to eat and drink. Milk, fruit and vegetables are okay to eat if they were bought or picked before the radiation was released and were stored indoors. Food stored in cans or bags is also safe to eat. Be sure to thoroughly rinse off containers before opening.

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Chemical Agents Chemical warfare agents are gases, liquids or solids that can poison people, animals and plants. Chemical warfare agents can cause injuries and death. How serious the injuries are depends on the type of chemical, the amount and the length of exposure.

What are chemical agents?

• The main chemical warfare agents are sulfurmustard (mustard gas) and nerve agentssuch as Sarin and VX. These agents aretypically released as a vapor or liquid. Duringa chemical attack, the greatest danger wouldcome from breathing the vapors. If a largeamount of chemical were released as anaerosol, people’s skin might be exposed tothe agent as droplets.

Sulfur mustard: symptoms and treatment

• Sulfur mustard can cause skin to becomered and irritated. Larger amounts will makethe skin blister.

• Sulfur mustard can damage your eyescausing irritation, redness and swelling ofthe lids.

• Breathing in sulfur mustard can cause throatirritation, sinus pain and coughing. Breathingin large amounts will damage the lungs.

• If you are exposed to sulfur mustard, it maytake four to eight hours before you feelsymptoms. However, after a relatively smallexposure, symptoms may take up to 24hours to develop.

• Medical staff can treat you with soothinglotions, eye drops and pain medication. Ifinfections develop, you may be givenantibiotics.

Nerve agents: symptoms and treatment

• A small amount of vapor can make pupilssmaller, dim or blur vision, and cause eyepain, a runny nose or shortness of breath.

• Moderate amounts of vapor can causemuscle weakness, nausea, vomiting anddiarrhea.

• Exposure to large amounts of vapor can causeinterruption of breathing, muscleweakness, loss of consciousness, convulsionsand death.

• Effects usually appear seconds to minutes afterbreathing the vapor of a nerve agent.

• Exposure to small amounts of vapor may causeonly smaller than normal pupils and may takean hour to appear.

• If you are exposed to a large amount of a nerveagent and have a runny nose, difficultybreathing, or nausea and vomiting, you may betreated with the medicines atropine orpralidoxime.

What you should do if there is a chemical attack

• If there is a chemical attack, authorities will tellyou either to evacuate the area immediately orto seek shelter.

• If you have symptoms of exposure, call 9-1-1immediately.

• If you were outside before taking shelter andthink you may have been exposed to achemical agent:

• Take off your outer clothes, put them in aplastic bag and seal the bag. Tell emergencystaff about the sealed bag so they can removeit safely.

• Wash or take a cool shower (do not use hotwater). Use lots of soap. Do not put soap inyour eyes.

• If you leave the area, tell emergency ormedical staff at your new location that youmay have been exposed.

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Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what youwill do in different situations.

Fill out the following information for each family member and keep it up to date.Name: Social Security Number:Date of Birth: Important Medical Information:

Name: Social Security Number:Date of Birth: Important Medical Information:





Where to go in an emergency. Write down where your family spends the most time: work, school and other places you frequent. Schools,daycare providers, workplaces and apartment buildings should all have site-specific emergency plans.

Home WorkAddress:

School Work

School Other place you frequent:

School Other place you frequent:

Important Information Name Telephone # Policy #Doctor(s):Other:Pharmacist:Medical Insurance:Homeowners/Rental Insurance:Veterinarian/Kennel (for pets):

Other useful phone numbers: 9–1–1 for emergencies. Police Non-Emergency Phone #:

Family Communications Plan

Email: Telephone Number:Out-of-Town Contact Name: Telephone Number:

Phone Number:Evacuation Location:

Address:Phone Number:Neighborhood Meeting Place:Regional Meeting Place:

Address:Phone Number:Evacuation Location:






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Every family member should carry a copy of this important information:

FOLDHERE< >

Contact Name:Telephone:

Out-of-Town Contact Name:Telephone:

Neighborhood Meeting Place:Meeting Place Telephone:

Dial 911 for Emergencies!


OtherImportantPhoneNumbers&Information:







FOLDHERE< >












