Category: Press Releases

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release April 15, 2019
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan (208) 866-5969 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Jerry Zumalt, Idaho County Disaster Management (208) 983-3074 jzumalt@idahocounty.org

 

Information, Resources Available to Idaho County Residents Affected by Spring Flooding

 

Grangeville, Idaho – A Multi Agency Resource Center (MARC) will be open from 3:30 – 8:00 PM Tuesday April 16, 2019 at Kooskia City Hall, 26 S. Main Street, Kooskia, Idaho. The MARC serves as an important resource for residents whose homes, property, and businesses were damaged or destroyed by spring flooding that began April 8, 2019.

Representatives from multiple agencies will be on hand including:

• American Red Cross
• Salvation Army
• North Central Public Health District
• Natural Resources Conservation Service & Farm Agency
• Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR)
• Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)

The meeting allows families, farm and business owners, and individuals, to ask subject matter experts questions on a variety of issues including – testing and evaluating wells and septic systems, debris clean up, home restoration, agriculture-related damage assistance, and other immediate needs.

Those attending are encouraged to bring identification and pictures of damage.

Along with the governmental and non-profit agencies on hand, Palouse Paws Therapy Dogs, an organization based in Moscow, Idaho, will have a therapy dog available for assisting individuals who may be struggling with anxiety and stress.

In addition to facilitating Tuesday’s MARC, Idaho County coordinated the efforts of the Needs Assessment Teams. The teams traveled throughout the flood-affected areas of the county yesterday collecting data from people whose homes and property were affected by the flooding. The data collected by the Needs Assessment Teams provides a broad awareness of
what needs exist, allows officials to prioritize those needs, and informs recovery efforts.

 

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Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 18, 2019
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

 

Needs Assessment To Be Conducted In Idaho County Following Spring Flooding

Two Idaho counties have State Disaster Declarations

 

BOISE – Needs Assessment Teams will be in Idaho County this weekend gathering information from residents affected by spring flooding. Community and Tribal members in the Kooskia, Stites, Clear Creek, and the upper Clearwater area, are encouraged to share flood-related damage information with team members. This will help officials ascertain the most effective response and recovery efforts.

Earlier this week Governor Brad Little signed a State Disaster Declaration for both Idaho and Adams County in response to significant damage caused by spring flooding. A state disaster declaration makes state matching funds available to assist counties with debris removal and repair efforts.

In addition to a Needs Assessment Team the county is also working with IOEM and multiple state and federal agency partners to coordinate a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC). The MARC is a resource for the community that matches up the right agency, and their resources, with community or Tribal members affected by flooding. The MARC will be available to community and Tribal members Tuesday April 16th from 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM PST at the Kooskia City Hall in Kooskia, Idaho.

The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Level III in support of Idaho and Adams Counties. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to current state declarations, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.
“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 18, 2019
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

 

Idaho Governor Brad Little Signs Flood Awareness Week Proclamation

Spring flooding is one of Idaho’s major hazards

 

BOISE – Idaho Governor Brad Little signed a proclamation this week designating March 18-23 as Flood Awareness Week in Idaho. The proclamation underscores the importance of Idahoans understanding the risks posed by spring flooding.

“Spring snow melt fills our reservoirs for irrigation needs and helps keep our forests and rangelands healthy, but when the snow melts too quickly it causes dangerous flooding,” Governor Brad Little said. “That’s why Idahoans need to remain prepared for the flood risk every year.”

Jay Breidenbach with the Boise office of the National Weather Service says several areas of the state have a higher than average risk this year, including the Big Lost and Wood River Basins as well as the Upper Boise, Payette, and Weiser Basins.

“Snow amounts in Idaho’s mountains are not as high as they were in 2017, when significant flooding occurred, but they are high enough that Idahoan’s will need to monitor river levels and be aware of the dangers of flooding near streams. If hot weather melts the snow too quickly, or if heavy rain occurs during peak snow melt, this will also increase our risk,” Breidenbach said.

Flooding is the leading cause of severe weather-related deaths each year in the United States. Following these basic rules can keep you safe:

• Never drive through flooded roadways, even if it looks shallow. Just a few inches of fast moving water can wash away a heavy truck. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Monitor your favorite local news source for the latest weather information
• If flooding happens get to higher ground fast
• Never cross any barriers put in place by law enforcement
• Always have an emergency kit in your home and your vehicle in case you need to evacuate to higher ground quickly.

You can read Governor Little’s 2019 Flood Awareness Week Proclamation by clicking on the link. https://ioem.idaho.gov/Pages/NewsRoom.aspx Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for photos, safety information, and other local information related to Idaho Flooding.

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release October 1, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

 

October is Earthquake Awareness Month

The Great Idaho ShakeOut Helps Idahoans Learn Earthquake Preparedness Measures

 

BOISE – More than 93,000 Idahoans signed up for The Great Idaho ShakeOut last year, and this year’s numbers are expected to meet or exceed that. The Great Idaho ShakeOut Earthquake Drill takes place this year on October 18th.

“We are pleased with the growth in participation for The Great Idaho ShakeOut,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “Each year more schools, organizations and individuals sign up to Drop Cover and Hold On! This level of preparedness is critically important in a state with our rate of seismic activity.” Idaho is now the 8th most seismically active state in the country.

Individuals, businesses, organizations, schools, and government agencies can register and take part in the Great Idaho ShakeOut earthquake drill at 10:18 AM MST. The steps are easy to remember: Drop Cover and Hold On.

“Damage and deaths from earthquakes are often very preventable, said Dr. Lee Liberty, Boise State Seismologist. “If I felt violent ground shaking, I would immediately drop, cover and hold on. What you want to do is prevent something from falling on your head, since injuries caused by falling objects are the most common earthquake-related injury.”

After the ground stops shaking, be sure you know how to turn off utilities like natural gas, electricity, and water. Throughout the year everyone should have emergency supplies of water, food, and necessary equipment so they can survive for at least three days without outside help following any major disaster. Remember to plan for your pets, children, and any special needs, including medical conditions.

To register for the Great Idaho ShakeOut please go to shakeout.org/idaho

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release September 4, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

September is National Preparedness Month

2018 Preparedness Theme – Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.

 

BOISE – Disasters in recent years in both Idaho, and across the country are a reminder of the importance of you and your family being prepared. September is National Preparedness Month, an opportunity to ensure that individuals, and families are aware of the threats, and hazards in their communities. Talk to your family and make sure you have a plan, and adequate emergency supplies for when disasters happen.

“Something as simple as an emergency preparedness kit for your vehicle, and your home is critically important,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “Emergency managers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other emergency responders do an outstanding job of keeping us safe, but they cannot do it alone. We encourage all Idahoans to discuss what their family’s emergency plan is should a disaster occur.”

Throughout the month of September the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is sharing important preparedness information on Facebook and Twitter @IdahoOEM for when the unexpected happens. This includes how to:

• Be informed about what kind of threats and hazards might occur where you live, work or visit
• Make a plan that includes your specific health and safety needs. Make sure to include the wellbeing of your pets when planning.
• Your emergency kit should include enough food, water, and medical supplies for your needs to last at least 72 hours.

For more information on how to be prepared visit https://www.ready.gov/

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release April 25, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

 

Idaho Fourth Annual Cybersecurity Interdependencies Summit

Event features experts in cybersecurity and an exercise for participants

 

BOISE – Government and business leaders will gather on Thursday, April 26th, for Idaho’s fourth annual Cybersecurity Interdependencies Summit, hosted by the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise.

“This event provides the best new information on mitigating cybersecurity threats to organizations of all sizes, and we take it one step further,” said Brad Richy, director of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. “We are also providing a hands-on tabletop exercise to test preparedness measures and reinforce awareness of the multitude of ways our personal and business information can be compromised.”

The summit will feature policy experts discussing trends and best practices, and a cybersecurity interactive simulation exercise. The full-day event also will feature keynote speaker David Shearer, CEO of ISC2, the world’s largest professional IT certifying organization.

“Idaho is enhancing our cybersecurity capabilities. That includes requiring that State employees complete cybersecurity awareness training,” said Jeff Weak, director of information security for the State of Idaho. “The need to keep all Idahoans’ information secure is critically important. Each day there are new threats to be aware of, so remaining diligent with the security of your information is essential.”

Additional presentations will focus on key areas of importance in cybersecurity, including information sharing and reporting, changing employee behavior, and the importance of attracting higher numbers of women to IT and cyber-related professions.

“This event presents a remarkable, comprehensive and free opportunity to learn about cybersecurity risks and responsibilities,” said Brad Frazer, a partner with the Boise-based law firm Hawley Troxell. Frazer is one of more than a dozen presenters taking part in the event, and is serving as a member of the panel called “Regional Resources and Available Assistance – Whom to Contact for Incident Reporting and Assistance.”

For information about the event go to https://www.regionalresilience.org/cyber-security.html

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release April 9, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

 

Idaho Governor Signs Public Safety Telecommunicators Awareness Week Proclamation

 

BOISE – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter has signed a proclamation naming this week Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Idaho.

“We are grateful for the hard work and dedication these dispatchers provide all over Idaho,” Governor Otter said. “Knowing there is a calm and experienced voice on the other end of the line when a person calls 911 is something we often take for granted. It’s important that we take time to thank and recognize these dedicated public servants.”

Telecommunicators, dispatchers and 911 operators are the first and most critical contact that citizens have with emergency services. In an emergency, citizens count on knowing that when they dial 911 someone is there to listen carefully, and send help. Public safety telecommunicators also provide a vital link for police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians who rely on the quality and accuracy of the information they get from dispatchers.

Dispatch centers throughout Idaho have tips to help the public understand how to best assist dispatcher when calling:

• Try to remain calm and speak loudly and clearly
• Listen carefully and answer the questions you’ll be asked. This helps the call taker understand your situation.
• Know your location and provide landmarks if possible
• If you call 911, don’t hang up. This delays getting the help you may need.

Idaho has 46 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) where 911 calls are answered. For more information visit our website at IOEM.Idaho.gov For daily information on all-hazards preparedness and safety tips, be sure to follow IOEM on Facebook and Twitter @IdahoOEM.

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release

 

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 26, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Clark County added to State Disaster Declaration for Flooding

Multiple county roadways remain impassable

 

BOISE – Clark County Idaho has been added to a state disaster declaration for flooding signed by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter. Clark joins Madison County on the state disaster declaration as both areas in north east Idaho feel the effects of spring flooding and runoff.

“The runoff has cut huge trenches along many roads,” said Clark County Emergency Manager Jill Egan. “While we do expect most major thoroughfares to re-open soon, some ranchers are having a difficult time getting feed to cattle on roadways that remain impassible. We are grateful for the community members who pitched in to help with sandbagging efforts this weekend. We would also like to extend a special thanks to our Search and Rescue volunteers for many hours of hard work.”

“Clark County residents have done an outstanding job managing the effects of flooding up until now,” said Greg Shenton, Chairman of the Clark County Commission. “We look forward to working with the state to mitigate the long term effects of this disaster.

A state disaster declaration makes state matching funds available to counties to assist with response and repair efforts.

The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Level III in support of Clark and Madison Counties. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to current state declarations, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.

“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.

 

Original Release

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 26, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Idaho Governor Signs Idaho Flood Awareness Week Proclamation

Spring flooding is one of Idaho’s major hazards

 

BOISE – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter has signed a proclamation naming this week “Flood Awareness Week” in Idaho. It’s an effort to remind residents and visitors of the dangers posed by flash floods. Each year in Idaho spring flooding causes significant damage to infrastructure and personal property. Last year almost every county in the state was affected by flooding. This year already, Madison and Clark counties are part of a State disaster declaration for spring flooding.

Being prepared and knowing what to do during a flood can save lives. Before a flood make sure you have a family disaster plan. Make sure your insurance covers flood damage. Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding. Even six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet. Two feet of water can float a car. Helping children to understand why floodwaters can be dangerous can prevent serious injury or worse.

The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Level III to monitor spring flooding in the northeastern part of the state.

For daily information on flood preparedness, and safety tips, be sure to follow IOEM on Facebook and Twitter @IdahoOEM.

 

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

 

Original Release