Author: Tristan Lewis
HazMat Week Brings Together First Responders Across Idaho
Hazardous materials professionals from across the state came to the Treasure Valley to take part in Idaho Office of Emergency Management’s (IOEM) Hazmat Week 2025. The annual training event offers first responders and regional teams the opportunity to strengthen their skills, build partnerships, and stay prepared for the challenges of hazardous material incidents.
Participants this year included members from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Meridian Fire Department, and three of the state’s Regional Response Teams (RRTs): Boise Fire (RRT4), Idaho Falls Fire (RRT7), and Twin Falls Fire, which is in the process of becoming RRT5.
Regional Response Teams serve as a critical state-level resource made up of members from fire departments across Idaho. By bringing together RRTs from different regions, HazMat Week not only strengthens individual team capabilities but also encourages joint operations—so multiple teams can respond as one during large-scale emergencies.
Throughout the week, attendees participated in a series of technical, scenario-based classes led by subject matter experts. These courses focused on emerging threats, interagency coordination, and real-world response tactics. Training locations included the Boise Fire Training Center, Boise Fire Station 17, Union Pacific in Nampa, and Amalgamated Sugar in Weiser.
Participants learned how to safely identify unknown substances using field testing kits and classification tools, reviewed best practices for managing incidents involving compressed natural gas vehicles and fuel systems, worked alongside rail partners, and more.
The week concluded with a full-scale HazMat rail exercise, where professionals put their training to the test where they were evaluated on their communication, operational coordination, teamwork, and more in a simulated emergency event.
All three RRTs worked together to operate as one unified response. This level of integration reflects the long-term goal IOEM, and its partners have been working toward by building regional teams that can function seamlessly together when large-scale incidents demand it.
By investing in high-quality training and creating opportunities for collaboration with agencies across Idaho, IOEM is helping responders stay ready to protect their communities and reduce the impact of hazardous material incidents.
Idaho Bureau of Emergency Medical Services to Join Idaho Military Division
BOISE, IDAHO — The Idaho Military Division is excited to welcome the state’s Bureau of Emergency Medical Services into the organization. This transition, effective July 1, 2025, marks a significant step toward enhancing Idaho’s emergency response capabilities and building a more resilient state.
As the state’s coordinating body for emergency management through IOEM, the division brings decades of experience in disaster preparedness, coordination and community support. The integration of EMS creates new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and expanded service.
“This transition presents IMD with an opportunity to use our knowledge and build upon our expertise while continuing to serve Idahoans through expanded capabilities that enhance our commitment to public safety,” said Adjutant General of Idaho Maj. Gen. Tim Donnellan. “We’re excited to welcome EMS into IMD and look forward to the incredible impact we can make together for communities across the state.”
The EMS Bureau supports a range of critical programs, including EMS systems and licensing, State Communications and the Time Sensitive Emergency program. While EMS delivery varies across Idaho, this move brings renewed focus and coordination to address system-wide challenges such as staffing and long-term sustainability.
EMS operations will relocate to Gowen Field in Boise, further aligning daily coordination with state emergency functions and reinforcing Idaho’s unified approach to public safety. StateComm will continue operations from its current location in Meridian.
Additionally, increased grant funding has been authorized for nonprofit and governmental 911 response agencies to support personnel and operational needs, an important step toward strengthening EMS at the local level.
“Across a large and geographically diverse state like Idaho, timely response and efficient coordination are important to saving lives,” said EMS Bureau Chief Wayne Denny. “This transition will help maintain and continue to improve strong partnerships with healthcare providers, emergency responders and public health professionals across the state.”
House Bill 206, introduced in the House Transportation and Defense Committee, passed both chambers with majority support during the 2025 legislative session. The legislation directed the move of EMS from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to IMD.
IMD is working closely with EMS leadership, the Governor’s Office, IDHW and other partners to support a smooth transition.
The Idaho Military Division remains fully committed to the bureau’s mission: to reduce disease, injury and death through prevention, awareness and quality service. By aligning resources and expertise under one roof, this transition enhances Idaho’s ability to protect the health and safety of its residents today and into the future.
For media inquiries regarding this news release, please contact EMS Bureau Chief Wayne Denny at Wayne.Denny@dhw.idaho.gov or 208-334-4000.
Idaho Mourns the Loss of Two Firefighting Heroes
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is devastated by the tragic events of Sunday, June 29, when two firefighters were shot and killed and a third critically injured while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene. Battalion Chiefs John Morrison of Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Frank Harwood of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue lost their lives in the line of duty. Engineer David Tysdal was seriously wounded in the shooting.
Our hearts are with the families, friends, colleagues, and northern Idaho communities grieving this immense loss. We also hold Engineer Tysdal in our thoughts as he recovers.
Harwood had a longstanding relationship with IOEM, working closely with our HazMat Duty Officers and Regional Response Team 1. His commitment and expertise made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to work with him.
“Battalion Chief Harwood was an integral part of communication between IOEM HazMat Duty Officers and RRT1,” said IOEM HazMat Program Manager Sarah Cerda. “Frank was often the one who answered the calls for RRT1 and joined coordination calls to support local responders across Region 1. His willingness to help made him a trusted and valued partner. Frank’s knowledge, expertise, and genuine care for those he served will be deeply missed.”
Despite the unthinkable tragedy and unknown threats, first responders from across Kootenai County and North Idaho acted swiftly and professionally during the Sunday incident. Kootenai County Emergency Management, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, Idaho State Police, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Idaho Bureau of Land Management all played key roles in rescuing the injured and trapped firefighters and preventing the suspect from fleeing the area. These agencies, along with other supporting partners, worked with exceptional coordination to protect public safety, confront the threat, and combat the fire.
Their teamwork and strength reflect the deep dedication behind Idaho’s emergency response community.
Several donation opportunities are available to help support the families of Chief Morrison, Chief Harwood, and Engineer Tysdal:
Support the Morrison Family
Donate via Stripe
Support the Tysdal Family
Donate via Stripe
Support the Harwood Family
Donate via Stripe
Support All Three Families via the Red & Blue Foundation
redbluefoundation.org
Memorial T-Shirt: All proceeds go to the Harwood and Morrison families
Relentless Defender Apparel – Remember Harwood & Morrison
Donate at First Interstate Bank
Visit any branch and ask to contribute to the fund for the fallen firefighters.
JW Foundation – Supporting Families of Fallen Emergency Responders
jwmfidaho.com/donate-2
Recovery Resources After a Wildfire
Wildfires can devastate entire communities by damaging homes, businesses, and farmland in their path. In the wake of these events, emergency managers often become the first point of contact for community members seeking recovery assistance.
While the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) often plays a central role in disaster support, there are several additional federal programs that may be available to help individuals, families, agricultural producers, and small businesses recover. The resources below may be useful for jurisdictions impacted by wildfire.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may provide low-interest disaster loans to individuals, businesses, and nonprofits impacted by wildfire. These include:
- Homeowners and renters
- Businesses of all sizes
- Private nonprofit organizations
- Small agricultural cooperatives
These loan programs become available following a federal disaster declaration, usually requested by the Governor after certain thresholds are met. Emergency managers play an important role in gathering local damage data to support these declarations.
Once approved, SBA loans can help cover repair costs, replace property, and restore operations. Learn more at the SBA Disaster Assistance page.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Disaster Assistance Programs
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers a wide range of support for farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and landowners affected by wildfires.
Disaster Resource Center
The USDA’s Disaster Resource Center provides centralized information on how to prepare, recover, and build long-term resilience after a disaster. Because wildfires often span public and private land, USDA firefighting and recovery efforts extend beyond national forests to assist landowners, producers, and communities across the landscape.
Farm Service Agency Assistance Programs
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) Disaster Assistance Programs provide targeted support for agricultural producers recovering from wildfire and other disasters.
Livestock Assistance
- Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP): Offers payments to eligible livestock producers for grazing losses caused by drought or wildfire.
- Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP): Provides financial relief for abnormal livestock deaths due to wildfire or adverse weather.
- Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish (ELAP): Covers losses not included in other livestock disaster programs, such as those caused by fire, disease, or weather.
- Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP): Provides relief to livestock producers with approved 2021 LFP applications related to drought or wildfire. No separate application required.
Farm Loans
- Emergency Loan Program: Provides low-interest loans to help producers recover from production or physical losses caused by disasters.
- Disaster Set-Aside Program: Allows eligible producers with existing FSA loans to defer one year’s loan payment in federally declared disaster areas.
Farmland Recovery
- Emergency Conservation Program (ECP): Helps repair farmland and implement conservation measures during severe drought or post-wildfire.
Learn more. - Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP): Assists landowners in restoring non-industrial private forests damaged by wildfire.
Learn more.
Crop and Tree Loss
- Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP): Assists producers of non-insurable crops when losses are caused by natural disasters, including wildfire.
- Tree Assistance Program (TAP): Provides financial aid to orchardists and nursery growers to replace trees, bushes, or vines damaged by fire or other disasters.
You can also download a printable overview of USDA disaster programs here: USDA Disaster Assistance Brochure (PDF)
Natural Resources Conservation Service – Disaster Recovery
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) helps farmers, ranchers, and communities recover from wildfires and other disasters through both technical and financial assistance.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) helps producers plan and implement conservation practices on land impacted by wildfire. Eligible land includes cropland, rangeland, and non-industrial private forestland. Available practices may include:
- Immediate soil erosion protection
- Minimizing spread of noxious or invasive plants
- Water quality protection
- Restoration of livestock infrastructure needed for grazing
- Emergency animal mortality management
Technical Assistance
NRCS conservationists can provide expert guidance to help producers and communities rebuild and strengthen their land. Services may include:
- Erosion prevention and control
- Soil protection and health restoration
- Directional water flow planning to avoid future flooding
- Preventative wildfire strategies
- Post-fire rehabilitation planning
- General conservation planning
Emergency Watershed Protection Program
Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program supports communities recovering from watershed damage caused by wildfires, floods, drought, and other disasters. Through the EWP, NRCS can help reduce hazards to life and property by supporting the following:
- Debris removal from stream channels, bridges, and culverts
- Reshaping and stabilizing eroded streambanks
- Repairing damaged drainage systems and levees
- Reseeding burned or eroded areas to prevent further degradation
For those jurisdictions with questions, need help reporting disaster impacts, or want to connect with available resources, please reach out to your IOEM Area Field Officer or Jarod Dick at jdick@imd.idaho.gov.
Full-Scale HazMat Exercise Brings Together Local, State, and Federal Partners
On June 13, first responders and emergency managers from across southwest Idaho came together in Weiser for a full-scale hazardous materials exercise designed to test every facet of our state’s preparedness. This large-scale event, hosted by the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) in coordination with Washington and Payette counties, brought together local, state, and federal partners to simulate a complex HazMat incident and train under conditions that closely mirror a real-world emergency.
The scenario centered around a hazardous chemical release from a rail tanker car caused by a faulty valve. Crews were tasked with identifying the substance, establishing safety zones, and containing the spill, all while working alongside dozens of other agencies in real time. Unlike tabletop drills, this full-scale exercise involved actual movement of responders, equipment, and vehicles, creating the most realistic training environment possible.
First responders from Washington and Payette counties led the initial response. They were challenged to complete a scene size-up, identify the hazardous material, establish unified command across county lines, and respond to a simulated civilian exposed to the chemical. These local agencies routinely manage daily emergencies and perform critical life-saving functions. However, this exercise was designed to push beyond local capabilities and required a higher level of coordination with private sector partners, the rail company, and state and federal agencies.
Throughout the exercise, crews monitored evolving conditions and worked to maintain control of the scene. Once state resources arrived, Idaho’s Regional Response Teams integrated with the unified command to quickly and safely develop a plan to address the faulty valve.
Participating agencies represented a wide range of local, state, federal, and private sector partners. Among them were FEMA’s National Exercise Division, IOEM, Washington and Payette County sheriff’s offices and emergency management teams, Payette County Paramedics, and multiple fire departments including Weiser, Payette, New Plymouth, Fruitland, Boise, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls.
Other key partners included the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Idaho Transportation Department, State Communications (StateComm), Southwest District Health, Western Idaho Healthcare Coalition, and Gem County Emergency Management. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the United States Army, and the Army Reserves were also involved as federal observers and participants.
Private sector partners such as Union Pacific Railroad, Amalgamated Sugar Company, and Graymar Environmental played important roles in supporting the exercise and providing realistic training conditions.
Evaluators were stationed throughout the site, observing how the exercise played out from multiple angles. Each evaluator followed a detailed exercise evaluation guide and documented real-time decision making. Their observations will be compiled into an after-action report and reviewed in a virtual meeting this August to identify strengths, gaps, and takeaways for each agency involved.
IOEM led the design, planning, and coordination of the event, with staff embedded in multiple aspects of the day’s activities, from evaluation and safety to public information. The exercise followed months of planning, including the 2024 Regional Interagency Steering Committee Federal HazMat Seminar and a series of pre-exercise workshops and tabletops.
Exercises like these help IOEM identify both strengths and areas where the state and local first responders can improve before a real incident puts lives and infrastructure at risk. They are also a reminder that relationships and regular practice help strengthen Idaho’s emergency preparedness.
National Lightning Safety Awareness Week
As National Lightning Safety Awareness Week approaches, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to stay informed and take steps to protect themselves from the dangers of lightning. This year’s awareness week runs from June 22 through June 28, 2025.
Lightning is a powerful and often underestimated natural event. According to the National Weather Service, lightning strikes kill an average of 20 people each year in the United States and injure many more. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms.
Lightning also poses significant risks to property and the environment. In Eastern Idaho, nearly half (47%) of wildfires between 2000 and 2020 were caused by lightning. These fires often occur during dry seasons, increasing risk and danger.
The best way to stay safe during a thunderstorm is to plan ahead. There is no safe place outside during a thunderstorm, so taking action early is key.
Safety Tips Before, During, and After Thunderstorms:
Before Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- Know Your Risk: Thunderstorms can happen year-round and at any hour. Be aware of your area’s risks and create an emergency plan.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for community warning systems and listen to Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio alerts. Be sure to also follow regional NWS offices, local and state emergency management offices, and local first responders on social media for daily updates.
- Prepare Your Property: Trim trees that might fall on your home and consider installing surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system.
During Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors: Seek shelter in a building immediately. Remain inside for at least 30 minutes after hearing the last sound of thunder.
- Use Vehicles as Shelter: If no buildings are accessible, a hard-topped metal vehicle with windows rolled up can offer protection.
- Indoor Safety: Avoid using plumbing or landline phones, as electricity can travel through these systems. Do not touch anything that is plugged into an electrical outlet.
- Water Safety: If swimming, boating, or near a body of water, move to land and seek shelter immediately. If a car is the only option, stay inside but avoid touching anything metal.
- Flood Safety: Avoid flooded roadways. Remember, “Turn Around Don’t Drown” – just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep away your vehicle.
- Lightning Victims: If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 immediately. Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and are safe to touch.
After Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- Stay Updated: Listen to authorities and weather forecasts to determine when it is safe to go outside. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
- Report Hazards: Watch for downed power lines and fallen trees and report them to the appropriate authorities.
IOEM encourages everyone to create and review safety plans and educate family members about the precautions to take before, during, and after a thunderstorm. By staying informed and prepared, we can build a safer, more resilient Idaho.
Preparedness Includes Pets
When preparing for an emergency, don’t forget about your pets! June is Pet Preparedness Month, and it serves as a good reminder to make sure your emergency plans include your furry, feathered, or scaled family members.
Pets rely on us for safety and care especially during a disaster. In some emergencies, you may need to evacuate quickly or become separated from your animals. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages pet owners to take time now to prepare, so they’re ready to act when it matters most.
Make a Plan For Your Pet
- Know Where to Go: Not all shelters or hotels accept animals. Research pet-friendly locations ahead of time and keep a list of places—like boarding facilities, friends’ homes, or pet-welcoming hotels—you can turn to in a disaster.
- Create a Buddy System: Arrange with a trusted friend, neighbor, or relative who can help care for or evacuate your pet if you’re not home.
- Microchip and Update ID: Make sure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with current identification tags. Don’t forget to keep your contact information, along with an emergency out-of-area contact, up to date.
- Practice Your Plan: Include your pet in emergency drills so they get used to their crate or carrier. The more familiar they are with the routine, the easier it will be in a real emergency.
- Stay Connected with Local Resources: Contact your local emergency management office or animal shelter for guidance specific to your community.
What to Pack in a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like you would for yourself, having an emergency kit ready can make all the difference. Put together a portable, easy-to-carry container with the essentials your pet will need.
Some items to include:
- Food and water for at least several days
- Bowls, litter/litter pan, and manual can opener (if using canned food)
- Medications and medical records in a waterproof container
- A basic pet first aid kit
- Leashes, harnesses, collars with ID tag, and/or secure carriers to help prevent escape
- Pet wipes, shampoo, and other hygiene items suited for your pet in case they need cleanup
- Sanitation supplies, such as litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, etc.
- Current photos of you and your pet in case you’re separated
- Details on feeding, behavior, and vet contact information
- Pet beds, toys, or comfort items, if easy to carry
Don’t wait until an emergency is underway to think about your pet’s safety. Taking time to plan now helps make it easier to keep your entire household (pets included) safe and ready to respond.
Stay Safe Around Swift Water
As summer temperatures rise across Idaho, many residents head to rivers, lakes, and streams to cool off and enjoy the outdoors. While these activities can be refreshing and fun, it’s critical to stay alert and aware around swift water – because a relaxing day can turn dangerous in an instant.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) reminds all Idahoans to be “water aware” this summer. Melted snowpack from higher elevations continues to flow into waterways, increasing both the speed and volume of rivers and streams. This runoff water is not only fast-moving but also extremely cold, even on the warmest days. These factors can create hazardous swimming conditions for even the most experienced swimmers.
Swift water is powerful and can be unpredictable. Beneath the surface, hidden dangers like rocks, tree branches, and debris can trap swimmers. That’s why it’s important to know what you’re getting into and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Know Before You Go
There are several safety precautions you can take to enjoy Idaho’s lakes and rivers more safely:
- Always swim with a buddy, not alone. Having someone nearby can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy in the event of an emergency.
- Do not jump in after someone who has fallen into swift water. Call 911 and attempt to reach the person with a long object or throw them a flotation device instead of entering the water yourself.
- Wear a life jacket every time you are in, on, or near water. Even if you don’t plan to swim, a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket can help keep you afloat if you fall in or are caught off guard by current.
- Avoid using alcohol or drugs before or during water activities. These substances impair your ability to react quickly, think clearly, and maintain balance.
- Understand how cold water can affect your body. Water fed by snowmelt can be shockingly cold, even in summer. Just a few minutes of exposure can lead to cold shock, muscle cramps, or hypothermia.
Stay Informed
Before visiting a waterway, check for any warnings or updates from local emergency officials, park rangers, or first responders. They often have the most up-to-date information about water conditions, closures, or hazards in the area.
Following their guidance can help you avoid dangerous situations and make sure your trip is a safe one.
Pay Attention to Changing Conditions
Lakes, rivers, and streams can appear calm on the surface while hiding serious risks.
- Be aware that currents can be strong, even if they’re not visible. What looks like a peaceful flow may have a strong undercurrent that is difficult to escape.
- Look out for hazards hidden beneath the water. Natural bodies of water can contain rocks, branches, sudden drop-offs, or debris that pose unexpected dangers.
- Stay away from dams and spillways. Water conditions around these structures can change quickly and become deadly without warning.
Be Prepared and Build Skills
- Always supervise children and inexperienced swimmers. Designate a responsible adult to serve as a “Water Watcher.”
- Make sure everyone in your group knows how to swim. Enroll yourself or your children in certified swimming lessons. It’s one of the best ways to build water confidence and prevent drownings.
Staying water aware and prepared can help prevent a tragedy. Before you head out for a day of fun near the water, take a few minutes to review these safety tips and talk with your family or group about how to respond in an emergency.
Additional Resources and Information:
PIER Team Builds Communication Readiness at Gowen Field
The right information to the right people at the right time – that’s what the Idaho Public Information Emergency Response (PIER) Team works toward every day. Last week, PIER Team members met at Gowen Field in Boise for their quarterly meeting, coming together to build the connections that make clear communication possible during emergencies.
While recent meetings focused on crisis communication training and emergency exercises, this one was different. It gave team members a chance to get to know each other in a more relaxed setting. In emergency management, there’s a saying – you don’t want to meet someone for the first time at a disaster. This meeting put that idea into action by helping PIER Team members learn the face behind the name and build trust before a crisis hits.
Attendees heard from Maj. Gen. Timothy Donnellan, the Adjutant General of the Idaho Military Division (IMD) and Lt. Col. Chris Borders, Public Affairs Officer for the Idaho National Guard. Both highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication ahead of emergencies. Borders also shared a brief history of Gowen Field and offered insight into how IMD operates, including the various programs and teams it houses.
After the meeting, the group toured Gowen Field and got a close-up look at military equipment like the A-10 Thunderbolt II, Bradley Fighting Vehicle, Black Hawk helicopter, and M1 Abrams tank. The tour offered a behind-the-scenes view of the tools that may be used in large-scale emergency responses and sparked conversations that help agencies work better together.
Participants included public information officers and communicators from the Department of Health and Welfare, Department of Labor, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Agriculture, local public health districts, the Ada County Highway District, Bannock County, and more.
Under Idaho Executive Order 2022-04, the PIER Team is made up of representatives from each state agency. The team exists to provide the right information to the right people at the right time during a State Disaster Declaration or major events. The group supports the IRC in public information efforts and assists local jurisdictions or state agencies in collecting, verifying, and disseminating important information to the public.
The PIER Team meets quarterly for group updates, training, and workshops.
For those interested in learning more about the Idaho PIER Team or attending an upcoming meeting, please contact Tristan Lewis at tlewis@imd.idaho.gov.
Youth Leaders Build a More Prepared Idaho
Two Idaho students are proving that leadership in emergency preparedness can start early. As members of FEMA Region 10’s Youth Preparedness Council (YPC), Paige from Boise and Allison from Meridian have spent the past year leading hands-on projects that help build a stronger and more prepared Idaho.
Paige, a high school senior, wrapped up her time on the council with a project aimed at one of Boise’s most underserved communities. She led hands-only CPR training at the Interfaith Sanctuary, the city’s largest homeless shelter. With support from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and Central District Health (CDH), Paige coordinated two training sessions that reached 20 participants, ranging from children to seniors. Despite some unexpected challenges, she and her team adapted on the spot to make sure everyone left feeling confident in their new skills.
Throughout the year Paige also organized a coin drive to support wildfire recovery, created pet preparedness flyers, participated in Disaster Preparedness Day, and shared earthquake safety tips during a STEM night at a local elementary school.
Meanwhile, in Meridian, high school sophomore Allison took an artistic route. She wrote and illustrated an original picture book, The Adventures of Polly the Porcupine, to teach kids ages 5 to 8 how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” during an earthquake. The story follows Polly, a shy porcupine who finds courage through learning how to stay safe. Allison plans to distribute the book to more than 20 schools before the next school year and hopes to reach even more families through libraries, hospitals, and community story times.
Beyond the book, Allison has created hazard guides for her classmates, helped evaluate her school’s earthquake drill, and even put her training to use during a real power outage on Christmas Eve.
Paige and Allison recently presented their accomplishments at a Youth Preparedness Council Project Outcomes event alongside other FEMA Region 10 representatives. IOEM Planning Section Chief Maija Reed attended and was impressed by the creativity and attention to detail each YPC member brought to their projects.
“It’s exciting to see these young leaders stepping up and making a real difference,” said Reed. “Their passion and creativity are exactly what we need in emergency preparedness!”
YPC brings together teens from across the country who are passionate about community preparedness. Members are selected for their commitment to public service and leadership potential. During their one-year term, they collaborate virtually to develop projects that promote preparedness locally and nationally, while connecting with leaders from FEMA, federal agencies, and national nonprofits to grow their skills and impact.