Local Disaster Threats

The following are hazards that we could face in our communities here in Oregon.  Click the links below for vital information on how to prepare for each of these situations.

Blackouts

Usually, rolling blackouts occur when power usage increases, especially during hot weather when many people are using air conditioning to keep cool.  Power companies try to give a warning when they will turn off the power to an area, but they can not always do that.

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Chemical Emergencies

Under certain conditions, chemicals can be poisonous or have a harmful effect on your heath.  Some chemicals which are safe, and even helpful in small amounts, can be harmful in larger quantities or under certain conditions.

Drought

In some communities where drought conditions exist, officials may recommend measures to restrict use of water.  You should check with your local authorities or water utility for information on water restrictions.

Earthquakes

Prepare a home earthquake plan.  Choose a safe place in every room – under a sturdy table or desk or against an inside wall where nothing can fall on you.

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Fires

Smoke alarms save lives.  Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and on each additional level of your home.  Carbon Monoxide alarms can save lives, too.

Carbon Monoxide

Floods

If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.  Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information.

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Heat Waves

If a heat wave is predicted or happening…Slow down.  Avoid strenuous activity.  If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

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Landslides

Landslides are a serious geologic hazard common to almost every state in the United States.  It is estimated that nationally they cause up to $2 billion in damages and from 25 to 50 deaths annually.

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Pandemic Flu

In April 2009, an outbreak of human cases of swine influenza (H1N1) was discovered in North America, and cases are being found in a growing number of states and countries.  Learn about ways to prevent the spread of the flu.

Terrorism

Devastating acts, such as the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, have left many concerned about the possibility of future incidents in the United States and their potential impact.  There are things you can d o to prepare for the unexpected and reduce the stress that you may feel now and later should another emergency arise.

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Thunderstorms

Before lightning strikes…Keep an eye on the sky.  Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind.  Listen for the sound of thunder.

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Tornado

Prepare a home tornado plan.  Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way.  It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor.  Keep this place uncluttered.

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Tsunami

Twenty-four tsunamis have caused damage in the United States and its territories during the last 204 years.  Just since 1946, six tsunamis have killed more than 350 people and caused a half billion dollars of property damage.

Volcanoes

The United States is third in the world, after Japan and Indonesia, for the number of active volcanoes.  Since 1980, as many as five volcanoes have erupted each year in the United States.

Wild Fires

More and more people are making their homes in woodland settings in or near forests, rural areas, or remote mountain sites.  There, homeowners enjoy the beauty of the environment but fact he very real danger of wildfire.

Winter Storms

Prepare a winter storm plan.  Have extra blankets on hand.  Ensure that each member of your household has a warm coat, gloves or mitten, hat and water-resistant boots.

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