Anacortes American Emergency Guide 2023

Emergency Preparedness

A supplement to the Anacortes American

Staying Informed

Emergency threats

traditionally led to more devastation than they should have because were too often caught unaware. Thankfully, we have far more information now in advance of these potentially catastrophic events, giving people time to plan and prepare — and then, if needed, to move to a safer place. Here’s how to stay informed.

WEATHER RADIOS

Get real-time news about the threats around you with a weather radio. They connect to a nationwide network of stations that broadcast continuously updated information from the

nearest office of the National Weather Service. You’ll receive up-to-the-minute information on various hazards, as well as forecasts and more detailed watches and warnings.

These broadcasts are on every day, all day. And despite their name, NOAA Weather Radios aren’t just for weather: They also share information about unrelated emergencies, including threats to national security, natural or environmental disasters and other public-safety warnings. Just remember to stock up on extra batteries, in case the power goes out.

WIRELESS ALERTS

Get the latest information sent to any handheld device via

Wireless Emergency Alerts from the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System. These WEAs may be sent by the National Weather Service, local and state officials, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children or the office of the U.S. president. The Department of Homeland Security has created four categories for the alerts, which arrive as text messages: imminent threat, AMBER, public safety and presidential. Imminent threat alerts share details on active shooters, extreme weather, manmade and natural disasters, and other emergencies. Presidential alerts are only sent during times of national emergency. Public safety alerts share information about non-imminent threats or information after a threat has

passed. AMBER alerts are urgent messages regarding missing children.

GET SOCIAL

Believe it or not, social media isn’t just for cat photos and Wordle competitions. In fact, it’s become an increasingly popular method to share information about emergencies and natural disasters. Emergency management officials and first responders now use various online platforms to provide the latest updates and news when disaster strikes. So, be sure to follow area government agencies — as well your hometown news outlets — on Facebook, Twitter and other networks to get more local information about what’s happening as it’s happening.

Should You Seek Shelter?

Knowing that an emergency is imminent is only half the battle. What you do next could mean the difference between being safe and a catastrophic loss of property — or even life.

Did you know there is actually more than one way to seek shelter? It’s important to know the difference.

STAY AT HOME

These measures ask that you remain inside as much as is possible, only leaving when it’s absolutely necessary. Grocery shopping, trips to the pharmacy and buying gas were considered essential activity during recent coronavirus-related quarantines. The Red Cross recommends keep at least two weeks of supplies on hand. Any stay-at-home emergency kit should include enough water for a gallon-perperson for several days, to be used both for drinking and for sanitation. You should also have plenty of non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, a NOAA weather radio, any needed medication, a flashlight and a firstaid kit.

SHELTERING IN PLACE

Sometimes the best response to imminent danger is remaining

right where you are, whether that’s at home, at work, a public place — or even in your vehicle. Shelteringin-place measures are typically short lived, as with a tornado warning, poor air quality or a live shooter, but may last longer. As with stay-at-home orders, it’s smart to plan ahead by having an adequate supply of food and water to make sure you can comfortably shelter in place, if needed. If it’s safe, text or call your emergency contact, and stay connected with

local authorities.

MASS SHELTERING

Widespread emergency situations typically lead to mass sheltering, where many people seek refuge together. Mass shelters are also called evacuation centers, emergency shelters, mass-care facilities or reception centers. They provide live-saving disaster response on a large scale, in cooperation with local emergency and public-health agencies, FEMA

and the Red Cross, among others. They’re designed to provide access to food and clean water, medical care and other stabilizing resources like heat, but if you have special needs consider creating an emergency mass-sheltering bag with needed essentials. Stay informed about the specific kinds of emergencies that tend to impact your area, and become familiar with the channels used by your local officials to share information in an emergency.

Earthquake Preparedness

Scientists have worked for decades to reliably predict when earthquakes might happen, but they still often occur without much warning.

We’ve learned a lot more about where an earthquake may occur, but not always when. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place so that you can move toward safety at a moment’s notice.

KNOW THE PHASES

Earthquakes begin with foreshocks, small movements that serve as a kind of prequel to what

will follow. The main shock is next, and often brings much more damage. These shocks usually last less than 60 seconds, but there can be more than one. Aftershocks are the final element in this sequence of events. These smaller shocks can last for days, or even weeks depending on the size of the main shock.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE

Situational awareness is your biggest asset when dealing with something as unpredictable as an earthquake. Decide where you will go inside a building if there is an earthquake, near an interior wall. Make sure there is plenty of room for you and your loved ones

or co-workers. Fasten down heavy pieces of furniture like dressers and bookshelves, as well as mirrors and light fixtures.

Share your emergency plan with others, both at home and at work, so they know what to do.

WHAT TO DO DURING

If you find yourself indoors as an earthquake hits, stay put. Go to your previously designated earthquake safe zone, and wait there. If you have heavy furniture like an antique dining-room table, take advantage of the additional protection it may provide. If an earthquake hits while you are outside, move immediately to

an open area. Stay away from any buildings, power poles or streetlights. Get into a protective stance, covering your head, and be on the look out for flying debris.

WHAT TO DO AFTER

Head outside once the temblor subsides, remaining aware of dangerous obstacles like downed electrical lines. Find a nearby open area where you can wait out any aftershocks. Check yourself and others for injuries; sometimes we get hurt but are unaware of it during stressful times. Once you’re back inside, be on guard for gas leaks and damaged wiring. Items in your home will have shifted, so be careful when opening cabinets.

Emergency Pet Planning

Some of the most devastating images to emerge from Hurricane Katrina were the abandoned pets.

A number of states have since moved to enact legislation aimed at protecting these innocent animals. It’s now illegal in many places to leave a pet behind when you live in an evacuation zone. Many have passed laws to keep owners from chaining their animals outside. Others now require animal shelters to accept pets during times of emergency. Ultimately, however, it up to us

as responsible owners to take care of emergency pet planning. Here are some ideas to get you started.

DON’T WAIT

Too often, we procrastinate when it comes to disaster planning until the threat is upon us. Put together an emergency bag filled with needed items for yourself well before a storm approaches — then put one together for your pet, too. The FDA recommends including a one-week supply of food, and any pet-specific medications. Bring along copies of any medical or vaccination records, as well as their microchip information. Include a photo of

your pet, in case the two of you somehow become separated. Don’t forget sanitation-related items like a doggy pad or litter. Designate a friend or family member to take care of your pet in case a storm or other emergency happens while you are away. Give them signed authorization for health care, too.

SAFELY EVACUATING

Remember that your pet will need time to acclimate to their temporary new setting, so they may resort to uncharacteristic behaviors. Everyone is anxious in these situations — including your pet. Leash or kennel your pet at all times. A carrier can provide a

sense of safety for a nervous pet, while also protecting strangers from a reaction based on fear in an unknown situation. Stressed furry friends may also escape and become lost. Enroll your pet in a database, and consider microchipping them, in the event they were to get separated from you. Some hotels choose to waive pet restrictions, or lower their usual deposit fees, during a natural disaster — but that’s not always the case. Call ahead to make sure you’re headed to a pet-friendly destination. If you’re likely to remain evacuated for a while, research well-regarded animals hospitals and vets near where you’ll be evacuating.

RESOURCES

ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION (Skagit County Sheriff Office)

............................................. 911

complaints (360) 428-3211

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

Anacortes (360) 293-3832

Burlington (360) 757-0994

Concrete ............................. (360) 853-8784

La Conner (360) 466-4778

Mount Vernon (360) 428-8547

Sedro-Woolley .................... (360) 855-1841

CITY GOVERNMENT

Anacortes (360) 293-1900 Burlington ........................... (360) 755-0531

Concrete (360) 853-8401

La Conner (360) 466-3125

Mount Vernon ..................... (360) 336-6211

Sedro-Woolley (360) 855-1661

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Dispute Resolution Center of Skagit County (360) 542-8487 Housing Authority of Skagit County ........................................ (360) 428-1959

Skagit Community Action (360) 416-7585 or ................................... 1-888-401-0458

FIRE DEPARTMENTS Emergency ..................................... 911

Anacortes (360) 293-1925

Burlington (360) 755-0261

Concrete ............................. (360) 853-8821

La Conner (360) 333-1989

Mount Vernon (360) 336-6277

Sedro-Woolley .................... (360) 855-2252

HEALTH CARE

Island Hospital (360) 299-1300

1211 24th St., Anacortes

www.islandhospital.org

PeaceHealth United General Hospital (360) 856-2549 or (866) 930-4304

2000 Hospital Drive, Sedro-Woolley

www.UnitedGeneral.org

HEALTH CARE cont.

Skagit Regional Health (360) 428-2500

(Skagit Valley Hospital & Skagit Regional Clinics)

1415 E. Kincaid, Mount Vernon www.skagitregionalhealth.org

LIBRARIES

PORT DISTRICTS

The Port of Skagit County (360) 757-0011

www.portofskagit.com

The Port of Anacortes (360) 293-3134

www.portofanacortes.com

POST OFFICES

Anacortes (360) 299-6689

Burlington (360) 755-7332

Concrete ............................ (360) 853-8311

La Conner (360) 466-5162

Mount Vernon (360) 336-5812

Sedro-Woolley .................... (360) 855-0545

RIVER LEVEL HOTLINE (360) 416-1404

SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

SKAGIT COUNTY GOVERNMENT

MALLS

Anacortes School District ... (360) 503-1200

Burlington-Edison School District

English: (360) 542-3595

Spanish: ......................... (360) 542-3596

Concrete School District (360) 853-8141

Conway School District (360) 445-5785

La Conner School District .. (360) 466-3171

Mount Vernon Schools (360) 428-6110

Sedro-Woolley School District ........................................ (360) 855-3500

Skagit Valley College

English: (360) 416-7600

Spanish: .......................... (360) 416-7740

Washington State University

Cooperative Extension (360) 428-4270

SENIOR SERVICES

Anacortes Senior Activity Center (360) 293-7473

........................... (360) 293-4684

Burlington (360) 755-0921

Concrete (360) 428-3211

Business office ............... (360) 416-1911

La Conner (360) 428-3211

Business office (360) 466-3134

Mount Vernon ..................... (360) 336-6271

Sedro-Woolley (360) 855-0111

Burlington Senior Citizen Center ........................................ (360) 755-0102

Concrete Senior Center (360) 853-8400

Mount Vernon Senior Center ........................................ (360) 416-1585

Sedro-Woolley Senior Center ........................................ (360) 855-1531

SKAGIT COUNTY FLOOD HOTLINE

(360) 416-1404

Disasters & Emergencies

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Download a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)

• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

• Flashlight

• First aid kit

• Extra batteries

• Whistle (to signal for help)

• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

• Manual can opener (for food)

• Local maps

• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Since Spring of 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

• Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription

or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.

• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

• Pet food and extra water for your pet

• Cash or traveler's checks

• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches in a waterproof container

• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

• Paper and pencil

• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Maintaining Your Kit

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:

• Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.

• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.

• Replace expired items as needed.

• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Kit Storage Locations

Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.

Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.

Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.

Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.

Think Fire Safety First

Thousands of Americans die, and tens of thousands are injured each year in home fires.

Property loss directly resulting from these fires totals billions

annually, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. These emergency situations require quick action, the kind that only follows careful advance planning. Fires can spread through a home in a matter of minutes, making it difficult to develop a course of

action on the fly.

Many fires also occur when familiar are sleeping at night, and those who haven’t worked out a plan may find themselves too disoriented as they awake to make good decisions. The results can be catastrophic.

CAUSES OF HOUSE FIRES

Use extra caution around your kitchen, where most house fires tend to start. Other common causes, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, are sparks from fireplaces, improperly discarded smoking materials, bad wiring and

malfunctioning appliances, among other things.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

Burns are most people’s principal concern. But that’s not the real danger from a house fire. Instead, the U.S. Fire Administration says asphyxiation is the leading cause of death — by a ratio of three-to-one. Smoke and heat from a house fire typically

reach places that the flames never do, and that can endanger people in every corner of the structure. The air can be so hot that it sears sensitive lung tissue, and it may also be carrying dangerous gases that can cause drowsiness or disorientation.

GUARDING AGAINST DANGER

No home can be fire proofed,

but there are things you can do to make it more fire resistant.

Install smoke alarms in every room to provide an early warning. Invest in a handy fire extinguisher; they might make the difference between quickly containing a small fire and suffering a huge loss. Consider using fire doors, which can keep flames and smoke contained long enough for you and your loved ones to escape. If

you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, keep up with regularly scheduled maintenance. Use a screen that’s heavy enough to stop a rolling log, and wide enough to catch any flying sparks. Be sure all fires are completely out before leaving. New fire-resistant carpets can also protect your home far more than wool or synthetics, which actually accelerate a fire.

Preparing Your Vehicle

When faced with an emergency, we tend to think of family and home first. Don’t forget, however, to include your vehicle in any master plan.

THINKING AHEAD

Map out your evacuation route in advance. Cell-phone chargers are particularly important, since they’ll keep a lifeline open to the wider world. Make sure your car or truck is in good working order. Check your fluid and oil levels,

as well as your tire pressure. Breaking down in an emergency could be life threatening. Avoid driving through deep water, since even six inches can impact traction on your vehicle. Experts also recommend collecting at least 24 hours worth of food

supplies into an emergency kit. Switch out these items every six months. Write dates on all nonperishable items, so you’ll know when to replace them. Expired food puts you at risk of becoming sick, making a stressful situation far worse. Don’t forget blankets

and a rain poncho. Pack plenty of water, too.

WHEN YOU EVACUATE

Don’t try to outrun nearby tornadoes or hurricanes; instead

have a plan to shelter in place, and follow it. Closely monitor news reports, however, and heed all official advice. They may ask you to evacuate, so keep your fuel tank at least half full when emergencies

loom. Some situations lead to long lines at gas stations, or their closure. Trees and power lines may fall during storms, so drive carefully. Remember to brake early in adverse weather, since it takes

more time to come to a complete stop in wet or icy conditions.

ROADSIDE EMERGENCIES

If you begin to have car trouble during a storm or other emergency, chances are you’ll have to attend to the problem yourself. Prepare for any roadside issues with a vehicle-focused toolkit. You’ll need wrenches, a tire gauge, flashlight and batteries, kitty litter for traction, a multipurpose tool, duct tape, socketwrench set, water for cooling parts, and jumper cables. Make sure your spare tire is properly inflated. If possible, purchase a reflective triangle or flare, so that you can alert other drivers to your presence. Depending on the season, you may need an ice scraper. Keep a fully stocked first-aid kit on hand, in case someone becomes injured. You’ll need antibiotic ointment, tape, gauze, bandages, rubbing alcohol or similar sanitizer, scissors and aspirin.

Know the Warnings

Forecasters can begin issuing important-sounding bulletins days before hazardous conditions arrive, bolstered by information from the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.

But what if you’re unfamiliar with all of this jargon? Here’s a glossary of commonly used terms and their meanings.

WATCH

At this point, you should be closely monitoring the situation while reviewing emergency plans.

A watch means conditions are favorable for a storm, tornado, flash floods or excessive heat in and around a selected area. When under a watch, take time to go over emergency plans once again, and check your food and other supplies. Unfortunately, severe thunderstorms, flash flooding and tornadoes can happen so quickly that forecasters aren’t able to share watches or warnings in time. So prepare to act quickly if conditions change.

ADVISORY

Advisories are issued for hazardous but less threatening weather events. (A heat advisory, for instance, alerts people that they may be impacted if

precautions aren’t taken.) Storms may be likely, arriving soon or already underway. In any case, they are not associated with the kind of serious conditions that trigger a warning. Proceed with caution, and stay connected with trusted news and weather experts.

WARNING

Far more serious in the case of tornadoes, this indicates that those in the warning area are in immediate danger since a funnel cloud has been sighted on the ground. Head immediately to an interior room, basement or storm cellar because there is a threat to life and property. During winter storms or thunderstorms, a warning indicates that the system

has arrived or will soon. Excessive heat warnings are issued when a 105-degree heat index or higher is forecast to last at least two hours.

FIND OUT MORE

One of the best ways to find out more about the threat of dangerous weather is by using a weather radio. Broadcasts include watches, warnings, forecasts and other weather information, and they’re available 24 hours a day. Some have a feature that will automatically turn the radio on when a watch or warning is issued. NOAA All-Hazards Radios also come available with vibrating alarm features and text readouts for the deaf community.