Category: Press Releases

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

NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 20, 2018
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Governor Signs State Disaster Declaration for Madison County

Multiple county roadways remain impassable due to sheet flooding

 

BOISE – Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter today signed a state disaster declaration for Madison County due to spring flooding. The north east Idaho county of roughly 39,000 is experiencing significant road washouts and destruction caused by sheet flooding due to rain and warmer temperatures.

“Access to homes, disruption to commerce, and limited first responder access are very real threats to the public in and around Rexburg,” said Corey Child, Madison County Fire Chief and Emergency Manager. “Everyone is very sensitive to the needs of the community and the difficulty this flooding continues to cause. We’re not out of the woods yet either, as the forecast calls for additional moisture over the next few days.”

Local officials say the ground has not thawed in the bench area east of Rexburg, and as temperatures warm, and rain falls the water simply cascades in sheets over roadways. The area is home to multiple dry farms, and sellers are having a difficult time getting semi-trucks of potatoes to manufacturing plants.

“We are grateful for the Governor’s Office and the Idaho Office of Emergency Management for their quick and sensitive response to our unique emergency,” said Jon Weber, Madison County Commissioner. “State assistance is welcome and essential in mitigating the disaster we are experiencing.”

A state disaster declaration makes state matching funds available to counties to assist with response and repair efforts. Today’s declaration is the first weather-related declaration this year in Idaho.

The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Level III in support of Madison County. 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 December 11, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Governor Signs Disaster Declaration

Well failure in Idaho County community leaves residents without potable water

 

BOISE – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter has signed a disaster declaration for Idaho County on behalf of the City of White Bird. The small north-central Idaho town has been without water since late last month. Residents are on a public water system served by two wells. The system depressurized cutting off water completely. Boil-water advisories remain in effect and have been posted door to door, at two local eateries, and at city hall. A boil-water advisory applies to drinking water, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and all food preparation. The cause of the depressurization has not been determined.

“When a community loses its potable water supply that affects every aspect of day-to-day living,” said Jerry Zumalt, Idaho County Emergency Manager. “We are grateful to the State of Idaho for providing assistance and expertise as we work to determine the cause of the depressurization and restore the community’s water supply.”

For more information on the boil-water advisory and the status of the wells, contact the City of White Bird Clerk’s Office at (208) 839-2294 or the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) at (208) 799-4370

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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 November 3, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Idaho Receives Disaster Preparedness Distinction

Accreditation highlights State’s emergency management proficiency

 

BOISE –Idaho is the first state in the Northwest to receive the prestigious Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP) distinction. EMAP is a voluntary standards, assessment and accreditation process for disaster preparedness and response programs throughout the country. It fosters excellence, uniformity and accountability in emergency management and homeland security programs. Idaho is the first state to receive the accreditation in FEMA Region 10, which also includes Alaska, Oregon and Washington.

“Congratulations to those programs that have maintained accredited status as well as those who have joined the elite leaders in emergency management having earned accreditation through the Emergency Management Accreditation Program. Through their commitment and leadership, they have proven to their communities and stakeholders that their programs are sustainable and that they continue to focus on their communities’ best interests,” said Robie Robinson, Executive Director of Public Safety, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga and the EMAP Commission Chair.

The accreditation process evaluates emergency management programs on compliance with requirements in 16 areas, including planning, resource management, training and exercise, public information, and administration – the foundation of the nation’s emergency preparedness system.

“I am extremely proud of IOEM and all the work that went into achieving EMAP accreditation,” said Brad Richy with IOEM. “The process involved hundreds of hours of time and energy to thoroughly document all of IOEM’s policies and processes to substantiate the good work we do. IOEM also relies upon support and assistance from our State agency partners when responding to disasters, so this really is a statewide distinction of excellence and accountability.”

Compliance in more than 60 standards must be met to achieve EMAP accreditation. Emergency management agencies must demonstrate proficiency through a rigorous process including documentation, self-assessment, and peer assessment verification. The accreditation demonstrates to all stakeholders that the State’s emergency management programs are sustainable and in line with best practices nationwide.

“The quality work that our Emergency Management folks do was highlighted more than ever this year as Idahoans in almost every county endured record snowfall, flooding, landslides and avalanches. I commend the agency and its leadership for the distinction this accreditation brings,” Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said.

EMAP accreditation is valid for five years.

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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 10, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Presidential Disaster Declaration Signed For Ada and Canyon Counties

 

BOISE – President Donald J. Trump signed a Major Disaster Declaration October 7, 2017 for Ada and Canyon counties, triggering the release of federal funds to help communities recover from flooding that occurred March 29 through June 15, 2017. Federal funds will be used to repair public infrastructure. Funds also will be available for hazard mitigation grants to help communities reduce loss of life and property damage in the future.

“As the nation continues grappling with weather-related destruction from hurricanes, I am grateful that President Trump took action to support Idahoans whose lives and livelihoods were seriously affected by a relentless winter and spring,” Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said.

“The State of Idaho now has four active Presidential Disaster Declarations covering just about every region of the state,” said Brad Richy, deputy chief of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM). “That puts the severity of this year’s weather in perspective. We are grateful for the coordinated assistance FEMA has provided in making sure funds get to communities as quickly as possible.”

# # #

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 2, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov

Idahoans Encouraged to Participate in Great Idaho ShakeOut

Drop, Cover, Hold-On Exercise Reinforces Earthquake Preparedness

 

BOISE – Just last month parts of eastern Idaho were rattled by more than 140 small earthquakes. Idaho is the 6th most seismically active state in the country. That’s why the Great Idaho ShakeOut is the perfect opportunity to make sure you and your family, and your co-workers, know what to do when an earthquake happens. The Great Idaho ShakeOut is part of a worldwide earthquake drill on October 19th at 10:19 AM during which people will practice the steps of Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Individuals and organizations can register and learn more at https://www.shakeout.org/idaho/

More than 44,000 participants have signed up for the event, including schools, counties, churches, neighborhood groups, and individuals. The Great Idaho ShakeOut is not something you need to leave work to participate in – in fact, participating at work is encouraged! Businesses, organizations, schools, and government agencies can register and have their employees practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On or have a more extensive emergency drill. The exercise reinforces what to do when earthquakes happen, the key rule being to drop, take cover under a desk or similar protected area and hold on.

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. Earthquake preparedness is one important part of an overall goal of being prepared for any disaster.

• Make sure your family’s 72+ hour Emergency Kit is always updated and ready to go
• Consider what could happen if an earthquake shakes your area
• Do a Hazard Hunt for items that might fall in your home, school or work environment
• Teach all household members how to use a fire extinguisher
• Plan for your family’s specific needs (seniors, disabled, children, pets)
• If you are a business or organization, develop, review and exercise your emergency plan

 

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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