Category: Blog Posts

Enhancing Idaho’s Hazmat Response: Highlights from Hazmat Week 2024

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management’s (IOEM) Hazmat Week 2024 brought together hazardous materials professionals from across the state to enhance their preparedness and capabilities. This intensive five-day training event provided a platform for Regional Response Teams (RRTs) and Idaho State Police (ISP) Hazmat Specialists to improve their knowledge and skill set for responding to hazardous material incidents statewide. Hazmat Week also serves as a cornerstone in keeping Idaho hazmat response teams aware of evolving dangers and challenges they may encounter in the field.

This year, participants hailed from RRT3, RRT4, RRT6, RRT7, and ISP. RRTs are a state-level resource that is made up of members from fire departments across the state. RRT3 has members from Caldwell Fire, Nampa Fire, Emmett Fire, and Weiser Fire; RRT4 is made up of members from Boise Fire; RRT6 is made up of members from Pocatello Fire, and RRT7 is made up of members from Idaho Falls Fire. The ISP Hazmat Team is made up of five ISP officers from around the state.

By bringing together members of RRTs and ISP Hazmat Specialists, the event strengthens collaboration, and share knowledge and best practices.

Throughout the week, attendees engaged in a series of engaging training sessions tailored to address emerging threats and enhance response capabilities. Trainings were held at the Idaho Response Center, Fire Training Center in Boise, and Boise Fire Station 17. Some of the key classes included:

  • TEPP Rad Training (Radiation Identification/Safety Levels): Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of radiation types, associated hazards, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Hands-on exercises with detection equipment provided practical experience crucial for accurate radiation monitoring and assessment.
  • Battery Operation for Technicians (Lithium-Ion Battery Dangers): An interactive course, this class provided invaluable insights into the hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries. Attendees learned about fire suppression limitations and explored available tools while sharing real-life encounters with these increasingly prevalent hazards.
  • Tactical Chemistry: Attendees honed their skills in identifying hazardous substances using a variety of tests and specialized equipment. This practical training enhances responders’ ability to identify substances quickly and accurately in both liquid and solid states.

Hazmat Week served as an opportunity to foster collaboration and network among different response teams statewide. Through shared experiences and collaborative discussions, participants identified common challenges and explored innovative solutions to improve response capabilities collectively.

By investing in training and creating opportunities for collaboration, IOEM ensures that responders are well-equipped to safeguard communities and mitigate the impact of hazardous material incidents across the state. For more information about Hazmat Week or those interested in hazmat training opportunities, please contact Sarah Cerda at scerda@imd.idaho.gov.

Blazing Awareness: Wildfire Preparedness Month in Idaho

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As Idaho braces itself for another wildfire season, Governor Brad Little has designated May as Wildfire Preparedness Month. This declaration aims to raise awareness and readiness among residents, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate wildfire risks.

With communities expanding into the wildland-urban interface, more residents are exposed to wildfire impacts. In fact, there is no county in the state without a significant wildland fire hazard. Data from FEMA and NOAA show that Idaho experiences about seven wildfire events each year, with the possibility of increased frequency due to climate change impacts.

Given the longer and more intense wildfire seasons, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) offers preparedness tips and encourages all Idahoans to remain vigilant and ready. Wildfires are often unpredictable, giving little warning and spreading quickly, devastating wildlife, land, and communities. Therefore, it’s crucial to be prepared at a moment’s notice.

“Wildfires are oftentimes unplanned fires that give little warning and can spread quickly devastating wildlife, land, and communities,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “It is important to be ready at a moment’s notice.”

Wildfire Preparedness Measures:

    • Making a Plan: Ensure household members understand evacuation procedures, develop evacuation plans for workplaces and schools, and practice evacuation drills regularly.

    • Strengthening Your Home: Utilize fire-resistant materials, identify outdoor water sources with hoses, establish a 30-foot fire-resistant zone around homes, and designate sealed rooms for smoky conditions.

    • Gathering Supplies: Stock up on essentials in a go bag, including a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, phone charger, pet supplies, medication and N95 masks for smoke protection.

Wildfire Preparedness Month Events:

IOEM Wildfire Mitigation Actions

IOEM implements several mitigation strategies that address wildfire hazards across the state. These strategies are designed to not only reduce the risk and impact of wildfires but also foster resilience within communities. Some key mitigation efforts include:

    • Promoting Statewide Consistency for Local Plans: IOEM works to promote consistency in the hazard mitigation planning process at the local level. By providing guidance and resources, IOEM ensures that local communities and jurisdictions develop mitigation plans that effectively address wildfire risks while adhering to statewide standards.

    • Developing a Statewide Approach to Modeling and Mapping: IOEM recognizes the importance of accurate modeling and mapping of wildfire hazards, both current and projected. By developing a statewide approach to this process, IOEM aims to provide communities with valuable data and insights to inform their mitigation efforts and land-use planning decisions.

    • Utilizing ArcGIS StoryMaps: To enhance communication and transparency, IOEM displays approved State Hazard Mitigation Plan (SHMP) and mitigation success stories on ArcGIS StoryMaps. This interactive platform allows stakeholders to access information about mitigation projects, their outcomes, and the overall progress of statewide mitigation efforts.

    • Providing Community Resilience Action Planning Assistance: IOEM offers assistance to communities in developing resilience action plans that promote cooperation, collaboration, and informed decision-making. These plans are interdisciplinary and solutions-oriented, taking into account the unique needs and challenges of each community. By creating equitable decision-making processes, IOEM ensures that stakeholders have a voice in shaping resilient communities that can withstand and recover from wildfire events.

By staying informed, prepared, and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with wildfires to reduce the risks associated with wildfires and protect themselves and their properties.

For more information on preparing for a wildfire event, visit the following resources:

Valley County Receives Funding for East Fork Road Repairs and Mitigation Efforts

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Following the severe storms of 2019 that brought widespread flooding, landslides, and mudslides to North Central Idaho, Valley County has received support from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to address the resulting damage and facilitate recovery.

The 2019 storms inflicted extensive damage on East Fork Road, including a large debris slide that resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. Recognizing the need for support and assistance, IOEM, FEMA, and other agency partners have been actively collaborating with Valley County to reimburse the costs associated with repairs and mitigation activities.

On April 18, 2024, IOEM Director, Brad Richy, and FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator, Vince Maykovich, presented Valley County Commissioner, Elting Hasbrouck, and Road and Bridge Superintendent, Jeff McFadden, with a payment to reimburse the costs of the necessary repairs. The federal and state contributions totaled more than $636,000. Additional funds will be provided as necessary as work associated with mitigation efforts continue through 2024.

IOEM is proud to partner with FEMA in assisting local communities like Valley County in their response to, and recovery from, Idaho’s natural disasters. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary support and resources to rebuild, recover, and thrive.

Idaho Hosts Western Regions Wildfire Summit

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The Idaho Response Center in Boise was the hub for pivotal discussions on wildfire management and preparedness as Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) Region 10 hosted Western Regions Wildfire Summit. Dozens of experts and leaders from state and federal agencies gathered to discuss and prepare for the 2024 fire season.

During the summit, attendees were provided with a critical briefing by the National Interagency Fire Center’s Predictive Services on the expected conditions for the 2024 fire season, highlighting the importance of preparedness. Discussions also delved into strategies for post-wildfire restoration and effective mitigation practices to build resilience against future wildfires.

Another focus of the summit was enhancing collaboration between federal and state partners, as outlined in the recommendations presented by FEMA’s Public Assistance Director, Robert Pesapane. Deputy Director of FEMA Individual Assistance, Zach Usher, introduced innovative approaches to post-fire sheltering and housing, emphasizing support systems for affected communities.

Further insights came from the U.S. Forest Service, which shared lessons from hazardous tree operations during the 2020 Oregon wildfires and updates to their rating systems. The summit also marked the introduction of FEMA’s new Interagency Coordination Division, which seeks to boost efficiency in post-fire recovery efforts through enhanced interagency collaboration.

Open discussions allowed participants to address ongoing challenges, explore updates to the Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program, and discuss future enhancements in legal and operational frameworks. These conversations were instrumental in identifying improvement areas and setting actionable goals among emergency management professionals.

The summit wrapped up with a strong commitment from all attendees to apply the shared knowledge and strategies to their respective roles and regions, reinforcing a collective dedication to making the 2024 fire season a model for preparedness and interagency cooperation.

“It’s evident that the strength of our preparedness lies in unity,” said IOEM Director, Brad Richy. “Bringing together the expertise and resources from state and federal agencies helps ensure Idaho is better equipped to face the challenges of the wildfire season with robust, collaborative strategies. We are committed to transforming the insights gained here into actions that protect our communities and enhance our resilience against future threats.”

Idaho Boosts Flood Safety with FEMA Training

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As spring flood season unfolds in Idaho, emergency response and flood mitigation professionals are collaborating to identify life safety needs for development in flood-prone areas. From April 8-11, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 and the Idaho Department of Water Resources co-hosted FEMA’s Managing Floodplain Development Through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) course. This intensive training provided attendees with an in-depth exploration into floodplain management under the NFIP umbrella.

The course, held at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Southwest Regional Office in Nampa, brought together floodplain managers, developers, engineers, and emergency managers from across the state. Among them were Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) Planners, Delanie Edmunds and Christina Lazar, and Risk MAP Program Manager, Robin Kiska. Together, they delved into a four-day course to strengthen Idaho’s resilience against flooding challenges.

The training reviewed important topics such as NFIP minimum floodplain management regulations, Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage (SI/SD) criteria, and the vital role of permitting processes in floodplain management. Participants also gained insights into floodplain management regulations, the significance of ordinance administration, and the interplay between floodplain management and flood insurance.

In addition, attendees explored Letters of Map Change (LOMCs), flood hazard mitigation solutions, and the roles and responsibilities of a floodplain administrator before and after disaster events.

At the end of the course, participants took on performance evaluations and research assignments to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

For professionals like Edmunds, Kiska, and Lazar, this course was as a pivotal step toward achieving certification as a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM). Upon successful completion of the CFM exam, they would be able to review developments in floodplain areas, prioritizing life safety in every decision made for Idahoans.

“The information in this course helps Idaho build structures that keep citizens safe from flooding events,” said Edmunds. “Above all, our primary focus remains on ensuring life safety.”

Managing Floodplain Development Through the National Flood Insurance Program course

IOEM Unites Federal and State Agencies for Disaster Housing Preparedness Plan

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As states and local jurisdictions have learned, the availability of long-term housing during disaster recovery is crucial to rebuilding a local economy after disaster strikes. In reviews of various disasters throughout the nation catastrophic housing response efforts has shown to be a consistent area for improvement. Within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10, there is also the need to identify long-term disaster housing capacity in response to a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake disaster. The State of Idaho would most likely be asked to house not only first responders but citizens in our neighboring states as well, during a period while rebuilding efforts are underway on the West Coast.

In Fiscal Year 2021, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) received a Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant from FEMA to develop a State Catastrophic Housing Response Framework. Innovate Emergency Management (IEM) was contracted to work with IOEM, various state, local, and volunteer organizations to develop a framework for how the State of Idaho would respond to requests for long term housing support following a disaster.

This combined effort resulted in not only a Catastrophic Housing Statewide Framework but a Local Long-Term Housing Template and Quick Response Checklist for county use as well. In the event of such a disaster, local jurisdictions now have a template they can use to mold into their plans and operations that dovetails into the Statewide Framework.

The columniation of this effort was a four-hour tabletop exercise on Tuesday, March 26 bringing together federal response agencies, state emergency response, county commissioners, emergency managers, first responders, the American Red Cross, state and private housing agencies amongst others. The framework was put through it’s paces, validated, and all lessons learned will be incorporated back into the framework.  

For those interested to learn more about Idaho’s State Catastrophic Housing Response Framework, please reach out to your local Emergency Manager to find out what they are doing with the template. IOEM plan to work the framework into the Office’s exercises and it will be updated biennially. IOEM is currently looking at creating a local sheltering and family reunification plan that will bridge the Disaster Recovery Plan and the Catastrophic Housing Framework. 

IOEM is grateful to all of the organizations that participated in this development and the exercise wrapping up this effort!

IOEM Enhances Lemhi County First Responders Hazmat Preparedness

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Local first responders in Lemhi County gathered for an essential Hazmat Training organized by the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) on April 7. The hybrid Awareness/Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) and State Hazmat Plan training aimed to equip participants with essential skills to identify hazardous materials incidents and coordinate effective responses.

Attendees included representatives from the Lemhi County Sheriff’s Office, local search and rescue teams, and multiple fire departments within the region. Instructors from Regional Response Team 7, IOEM, and State Communications led the training, providing expertise and guidance throughout the sessions.

One of the highlights of the training was the Hazmat Awareness portion, during which attendees engaged in a tabletop exercise. This exercise allowed participants to simulate a hazmat scenario, from initial identification to the reporting of the incident to state communications. Through this hands-on activity, responders sharpened their decision-making skills and practiced effective communication protocols.

“The tabletop exercise was incredibly beneficial in helping emergency responders understand the complexities of hazmat incidents and the importance of prompt and accurate reporting,” said IOEM Hazmat and Special Teams Program Manager, Sarah Cerda.

Throughout the training, participants reviewed and gained knowledge to identify hazardous materials, assess risks, and initiate appropriate response measures. By investing in hazmat training, Lemhi County’s first responders are ensuring their commitment to preparedness and public safety.

IOEM is dedicated to supporting local communities in their efforts to enhance hazmat preparedness and response capabilities. Through activities like this training, responders are better equipped to safeguard lives, property, and the environment in the face of potential hazards. For more information on Hazmat training opportunities, contact Sarah Cerda at scerda@imd.idaho.gov.

Strengthening Idaho’s Emergency Response: A Year of Third Thursday Trainings

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) team stays ready and prepared thanks to Third Thursday trainings! These monthly drills are opportunities for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) to work on plans and procedures, work through issues, and review those plans and procedures, so staff are prepared during an emergency or disaster.

March 2024 marked a significant milestone for IOEM as it celebrated one year of engaging in these monthly trainings at the Idaho Response Center (IRC). These sessions have proven effective in honing procedures and fostering a culture of readiness among team members.

Led by the Plans section of Idaho SERT, March’s Third Thursday training focused on the Situation Report (SitRep) process. The primary objectives were to acquaint the SERT with the SitRep process and to provide hands-on practice in its creation. Knowing how to craft a clear and detailed SitRep can help leadership to coordinate a timely and effective state response. It ensures all stakeholders are informed about the state of the current and/or changing situation.

The exercise received valuable support from emergency managers of Blaine, Kootenai, and Valley counties, along with the Department of Administration and the Department of Health and Welfare’s emergency support function coordinators. Their collaboration was integral as they provided essential information for the SERT Plans Section to incorporate into a SitRep.

Participants enthusiastically embraced the training, as they engaged in group activities and utilized job aids to help craft SitReps. The collective effort demonstrated great teamwork, with each member contributing relevant ideas and ensuring the creation of SitReps with accurate and actionable information. IOEM team members who participated in the training shared their enjoyment with the collaborative learning experience and emphasized the importance of such exercises in strengthening preparedness capabilities.

Remember, strong SERT = strong Idaho!

Be Prepared and Safe for Severe Weather in Idaho

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Be Prepared and Safe for Severe Weather in Idaho

When springtime rolls around, so does the unpredictable nature of its weather patterns.  Severe weather can strike anytime and anywhere. From thunderstorms that brings damaging winds to the risk of flooding due to snowmelt – being prepared is key to mitigating its impact on you and your loved ones. With the arrival of Idaho’s unexpected weather, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) has gathered tips and resources to keep you and your loved ones safe during severe weather events.

Know Your Risk: Thunder and Lightning

Thunderstorms can be dangerous, with lightning posing a significant threat. Here’s how you can stay safe:

Preparing for Thunderstorms & Lightning

  • Know Your Risk: Understand your area’s risk for thunderstorms and take measures to strengthen your home against potential damage.

Staying Safe During Thunderstorms & Lightning

  • Take Shelter: Move indoors and avoid using water or electronic devices during thunderstorms.

Staying Safe After Thunderstorms & Lightning

  • Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather forecasts and authorities’ instructions regarding potential hazards.

Know Your Risk: Floods

Flooding poses significant risks to life and property. Here’s how you can stay safe:

  • Seek Shelter: Find safe shelter immediately and avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters.
  • Stay Informed: Pay attention to flood warnings and never underestimate the power of moving water.

Preparing for a Flood

  • Understand Your Risk: Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to determine flood risks in your area and purchase flood insurance if needed.
  • Plan Ahead: Create an emergency plan for your household and gather necessary supplies for evacuation or sheltering in place.

Staying Safe During a Flood

  • Follow Orders: Evacuate if instructed, and listen to authorities for updated information and instructions.
  • Avoid Risks: Stay clear of flooded roads and bridges over fast-moving water.

Staying Safe After a Flood

  • Stay Informed: Pay attention to authorities’ guidance and avoid driving except in emergencies.
  • Exercise Caution: Wear protective gear during cleanup, and be mindful of potential hazards like downed power lines.

For more information on flood safety tips, please visit IOEM’s Staying Safe During Floods blog post.

Know Your Risk: Winter Weather

Winter storms can bring extreme cold and hazardous conditions. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

  • Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms.

Preparing for Winter Weather

  • Winterize Your Home: Prepare your home for cold weather, gather necessary supplies, and create an emergency supply kit for your car.

Staying Safe During Winter Weather

  • Avoid Exposure: Limit outdoor activities and dress warmly to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Stay Off Roads if Possible: Minimize travel during severe winter weather, and if trapped in your car, remain inside until help arrives.
  • Recognize Frostbite and Hypothermia: Familiarize yourself with the signs and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia. Take prompt action if symptoms arise.
  • Use Generators Safely: Always operate generators outdoors and away from windows, and never use them indoors or in enclosed spaces.

For more information on flood safety tips, please visit IOEM’s Navigating Winter Storms blog post.

Know Your Risk: Tornadoes

Tornadoes are nature’s juggernauts, capable of causing immense destruction within seconds. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe:

  • Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information.
  • Seek Shelter Immediately: Head to a safe shelter such as a basement, storm cellar, or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building. Avoid windows, doors, and outside walls.
  • Be Vigilant: Watch out for flying debris and protect your head and neck with your arms.

Preparing for a Tornado

  • Know Your Area’s Risk: Understand the tornado risk in your region and familiarize yourself with the signs of an impending tornado.
  • Sign Up for Alerts: Stay connected to your community’s warning system and pay attention to weather reports.
  • Plan Ahead: Identify and practice going to a safe shelter and ensure your emergency supplies include provisions for your pets.

Staying Safe During a Tornado

  • Act Promptly: Immediately seek shelter in a safe location and pay attention to emergency alerts.
  • Protect Yourself: Cover your head and neck and shield yourself from flying debris.
  • Avoid Driving: If you’re outdoors, do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle. Find a sturdy shelter immediately.

Staying Safe After a Tornado

  • Communicate Wisely: Use text messaging or social media to communicate and save phone calls for emergencies.
  • Listen to Local Authorities: Follow instructions from local authorities and avoid fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
  • Safety First: Wear appropriate gear during cleanup and be cautious of potential hazards.

Take Action: Develop an Emergency Plan

  • Create a Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan for your household, considering specific needs and responsibilities.

Remember, preparation is key to staying safe during severe weather events. Stay informed, make a plan, and be ready to act swiftly when disaster strikes. For more information and resources on emergency preparedness, stay connected with IOEM’s social media channels, such as Facebook and X (Twitter), for the latest updates and other preparedness tips.

For more information on preparing before a flooding event, visit the following resources:

Stay safe, Idaho!

Staying Safe During Floods

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Floods are among the most common and devastating natural disasters in the United States, and Idaho is no exception. In conjunction with Flood Awareness Week in Idaho, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all residents to take proactive steps to ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones during flood events.

Floods occur when water overflows onto normally dry land. They can result from various factors such as heavy rain, snowmelt, storm surges, dam failures, and more. Floods can develop slowly or quickly, with flash floods posing a particularly dangerous threat due to their sudden onset and swift-moving waters. It’s crucial to recognize the potential hazards associated with floods and take appropriate actions to stay safe.

Responding to Flood Warnings

If you find yourself under a flood warning, swift action is crucial:

  • Find safe shelter immediately: Avoid areas prone to flooding and seek higher ground.
  • Never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters: Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep away your vehicle. Remember, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!“
  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water: These structures can become unstable during floods and pose significant risks to motorists and pedestrians alike.

Depending on the severity of the flooding and official directives:

  • Evacuate if told: Follow evacuation orders issued by local authorities without hesitation.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor: Seek elevated locations to minimize your exposure to floodwaters.
  • Stay where you are: If evacuation is not necessary or possible, remain indoors and await further instructions.

Preparing for a Flood

Preparedness is key to mitigating the impact of floods on your household:

  • Know your flood risk: Utilize resources such as FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to understand the flood risk in your area.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts: Stay informed about potential hazards and emergency alerts by signing up for the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio
  • Purchase flood insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. Invest in flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to safeguard your property.
  • Create an emergency plan: Establish evacuation routes, shelter plans, and communication strategies for your family and pets. Stockpile essential supplies including non-perishable foods, water, and medical provisions.

During a Flood

When faced with flooding conditions, prioritize your safety:

  • Follow evacuation orders: Listen to instructions from local authorities and emergency responders.
  • Avoid driving through flooded areas: Obey road closures and barricades to prevent accidents and facilitate rescue efforts.
  • Stay informed: Tune into emergency broadcasts and weather updates via the EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems.
  • Exercise caution around floodwaters: Refrain from walking, swimming, or driving through flooded areas, and stay clear of bridges over fast-moving water.

After a Flood

Recovery efforts following a flood require careful consideration and attention to safety:

  • Wait for official clearance to return home: Do not re-enter flood-affected areas until authorities deem it safe to do so.
  • Continue to exercise caution: Wear appropriate protective gear and be mindful of potential hazards such as contaminated water, debris, and electrical dangers. Watch out for snakes and other animals that may have sought refuge indoors. Avoid contact with electrical equipment and downed power lines.
  • Use generators outdoors: Keep generators and other gasoline-powered machinery away from enclosed spaces to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

By staying informed, prepared, and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with floods and protect you and those around you. For more information on preparing before a flooding event, visit the following resources: