Emergency Preparedness

The precautions we use to fight the spread of seasonal influenza each winter are the same preventive strategies we would use to fight pandemic influenza. Simple precautions to fight the flu include:

• Covering Your Cough
• Washing Your Hands
• Staying Away From Sick People, and
• Staying Home When You’re Sick.

It is difficult to predict the severity of the next influenza pandemic, but everyone should be prepared. Large numbers of sick people may overwhelm hospitals and clinics. Doctors and nurses will get sick also, so hospitals and clinics may be short-staffed. Many people will be unable to work, affecting how long businesses, banks, government offices and other services are open. An influenza pandemic could last a long time. The 1918 influenza pandemic lasted 18 months. In some cases, pandemics weaken for a while and then recur.

Panhandle Health District will keep you informed. Epidemiologists and other health officials will work with the media to provide timely information and advice. Web sites from government health agencies will also have updated information.

It is important to think about health issues that could arise if an influenza pandemic occurs, and how they could affect you and your loved ones.

Gather family health information that includes:

• Family members’ name
• Allergies
• Past and current medical conditions, and
• Current medications and dosages

Are you prepared for a flood?

Before a Flood

• Listen to a radio or television for the latest storm information.
• Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated. Sanitize the sinks first by using bleach. Rinse and then fill with clean water.
• Bring things indoors.
• Move valuables, such as jewelry, papers, and pictures to upper floors or higher elevations.

During the Flood

• Do not drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way.
• Do not walk through flooded areas.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.
• Watch for animals, especially snakes.

After the Flood

• Before entering a building, check for structural damage. Don’t enter if there is a chance the building may collapse.
• Upon entering a building, do not use candles, cigarette lighters, matches, or other open flames, since gas may be trapped inside. Instead use a flashlight.
• Flood waters pick up sewage and chemicals from surrounding areas. If your home has been flooded, protect your family’s health by cleaning up your house right way. Throw out food and medicine that may have come into contact with flood water.
• Until local authorities say that your water supply is safe, vigorously boil water five minutes before drinking it or using it for food preparation.
• Watch for steps and floors that are slippery with mud and covered with debris, including broken glass and nails.

Protecting Your Home, Food and Water During a Flood

The Environmental Health division of Panhandle Health District handles well and septic system questions, as well as food supply information for businesses. Environmental Health inspectors and subject matter experts work in PHD offices in Hayden, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry, St. Maries, and Kellogg. Call (208) 415-5220 for information and local resources.

Flood Watch = “Be Aware.”

Steps to Take:

• Turn on your TV/radio. You will receive the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
• Know where to go. You may need to reach higher ground quickly and on foot.
• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

Flood Warning = “Take Action!”

Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

Dry conditions in Idaho increase the potential for wildfires in or near wilderness areas. Stay alert for wildfire warnings and take action to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke.