Wednesday, March 31, 2010
JNS Facebook Site
Become a Facebook Fan on Jasper-Newton-Sabine Emergency Management/Homeland Security. Check us out at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Buna-TX/Jasper-Newton-Sabine-Counties-Emergency-Management/110184682334320?ref=ts
Possible Severe Weather
"Confidence is high regarding the threat of severe weather across Texas and Oklahoma as a vigorous upper-level storm system approaches from the west. Abundant moisture will begin streaming into portions of eastern Texas and Oklahoma today and Thursday ahead of an approaching storm system. By mid-day Friday, a well-defined north-to-south oriented dry line is expected have pushed as far east as Wichita Falls and just east of San Angelo. The dry line will continue to push eastward during the afternoon and evening hours Friday, triggering the development of the storms.
IMPACT AREA: At present, the greatest impact zone appears to be Central and North Texas (including the DFW Metroplex), as well as southern portions of Oklahoma.
TIMING: Thunderstorms will likely form at, or just before, midday Friday along the developing dry line and spread into North Central Texas (and the DFW area) during the early evening. The storms will progress eastward across the remainder of the State during the overnight hours, when the threat for severe weather will begin to diminish.
THREAT: The greatest threat appears to be damaging straight-line winds and large hail, although the threat of tornado occurrence exists. Though widespread flash flooding is not expected, given the amount of ground moisture already present in the threat area, flash flooding is possible in heavier thunderstorms"
IMPACT AREA: At present, the greatest impact zone appears to be Central and North Texas (including the DFW Metroplex), as well as southern portions of Oklahoma.
TIMING: Thunderstorms will likely form at, or just before, midday Friday along the developing dry line and spread into North Central Texas (and the DFW area) during the early evening. The storms will progress eastward across the remainder of the State during the overnight hours, when the threat for severe weather will begin to diminish.
THREAT: The greatest threat appears to be damaging straight-line winds and large hail, although the threat of tornado occurrence exists. Though widespread flash flooding is not expected, given the amount of ground moisture already present in the threat area, flash flooding is possible in heavier thunderstorms"
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
April ETMA Meeting
The next meeting of the East Texas Mutual Aid Association will be held on Thursday April 15, 2010 at 7:00 PM. The host for this meeting will be the Buna Volunteer Fire Department. The location will be at the BVFD station on Hwy 62 in Buna.
Please make every effort to attend or send someone to represent you.
For mor information contact President Billy Ted Snith or Secretary Kirbie Moss at 409-994-2543
Please make every effort to attend or send someone to represent you.
For mor information contact President Billy Ted Snith or Secretary Kirbie Moss at 409-994-2543
Disaster Reservists Needed
Reservists are needed to support FEMA’s response to catastrophic disasters or incidents as defined by the Stafford Act. Deployments will be on short notice for up to 30 days or longer and will require long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and disasters. In some cases, 12 hour shifts seven-days-a week will be expected. The size and scope of the mission will vary based on the geography, scale and magnitude of damage, type of incident, impact on the national security, and the projected number of affected individuals and households, as well as the availability of resources (housing, personnel, supplies, and materials).
Background, job descriptions, and contact information for interested candidates are included At the link below.
http://www.allhandsconsulting.com/pr08.htm
Background, job descriptions, and contact information for interested candidates are included At the link below.
http://www.allhandsconsulting.com/pr08.htm
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Copper Theft Prevalence
Skyrocketing prices for copper have made a minor nuisance of past years into a major and costly problem today, according to "coppertheft.info." "Pipes, wires, cables, gutters, and flashing are being torn from walls and buildings."
Numerous law enforcement sources also reported that both individuals and organized criminals have targeted telecommunications, electrical substations, and railway lines, as well as wiring and piping in homes and businesses in order to steal copper sections.
The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) verified that copper thefts pose electrical hazards to both the workers of the affected infrastructure and to the perpetrators themselves.
Additionally, these thefts create dangers for Emergency Services Sector personnel in the following ways:
· Exposed live electrical wires can compromise safety and operational effectiveness.
· Large-scale ramifications of losing communications and electrical power networks.
· Hazards associated with damaged rail switches and other critical components.
Because of the copper theft prevalence throughout the United States, the EMR-ISAC recognizes that first responders must proceed cautiously at any incident scene where the pilfering of this metal is suspected, alleged, or verified.
More information regarding how copper thefts threaten U.S. critical infrastructures can be seen in an FBI report on the subject.
Read more at:
http://coppertheft.info/
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/majorthefts/coppertheft_120308b.htm
Numerous law enforcement sources also reported that both individuals and organized criminals have targeted telecommunications, electrical substations, and railway lines, as well as wiring and piping in homes and businesses in order to steal copper sections.
The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) verified that copper thefts pose electrical hazards to both the workers of the affected infrastructure and to the perpetrators themselves.
Additionally, these thefts create dangers for Emergency Services Sector personnel in the following ways:
· Exposed live electrical wires can compromise safety and operational effectiveness.
· Large-scale ramifications of losing communications and electrical power networks.
· Hazards associated with damaged rail switches and other critical components.
Because of the copper theft prevalence throughout the United States, the EMR-ISAC recognizes that first responders must proceed cautiously at any incident scene where the pilfering of this metal is suspected, alleged, or verified.
More information regarding how copper thefts threaten U.S. critical infrastructures can be seen in an FBI report on the subject.
Read more at:
http://coppertheft.info/
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/majorthefts/coppertheft_120308b.htm
Dealing with incidents involving pipelines - High Pressure Natural Gas
Here are two websites that may assist emergency responders dealing with both gas and liquid pipeline incidents.
http://www.papapipelinevideos.com/
http://pipeline.mindgrabmedia.com/main.aspx
Both of these are web based training sites with videos and interactive training modules and scenarios.
http://www.papapipelinevideos.com/
http://pipeline.mindgrabmedia.com/main.aspx
Both of these are web based training sites with videos and interactive training modules and scenarios.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
News Release
March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
The Texas Department of State Health Services is looking for six small lead containers filled with a potentially dangerous radioactive material that were stolen late Friday night from a private company’s pickup truck parked outside the Walmart store in Alice.
The containers were in a clear plastic bag that was taken from a toolbox in the back of the truck. Each metal container is shrink-wrapped and contains a glass vial of ceramic granules called radioactive tracer “sand,” used in the oil and gas industry.
A person handling the containers or the sand could be at risk of radiation exposure.
DSHS officials said anyone who has information about the containers should call their local police or sheriff’s department or DSHS at (512) 458-7460.
The truck is owned by ProTechnics, a Houston-based company. The company is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the containers.
A photograph of the bag is available here: www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/images/Ir-192-Six-Pack.jpg.
-30-
(News Media Contact: Carrie Williams, Acting Press Officer, 512-458-7119.)
DSHS Press Office on Twitter
March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
The Texas Department of State Health Services is looking for six small lead containers filled with a potentially dangerous radioactive material that were stolen late Friday night from a private company’s pickup truck parked outside the Walmart store in Alice.
The containers were in a clear plastic bag that was taken from a toolbox in the back of the truck. Each metal container is shrink-wrapped and contains a glass vial of ceramic granules called radioactive tracer “sand,” used in the oil and gas industry.
A person handling the containers or the sand could be at risk of radiation exposure.
DSHS officials said anyone who has information about the containers should call their local police or sheriff’s department or DSHS at (512) 458-7460.
The truck is owned by ProTechnics, a Houston-based company. The company is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the containers.
A photograph of the bag is available here: www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/images/Ir-192-Six-Pack.jpg.
-30-
(News Media Contact: Carrie Williams, Acting Press Officer, 512-458-7119.)
DSHS Press Office on Twitter
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Job Opportunity
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
Disaster Response Reservists: Mass Care Specialists
Job Description
Dewberry (www.dewberry.com) is augmenting its existing cadre of
part-time and intermittent staff to perform work for FEMA following
disaster incidents. Dewberry has supported FEMA for over 25 years on
disaster response and recovery assignments, and our contracts now
include supporting FEMA's mass care/ emergency assistance programs. We
require experienced individuals with a variety of skills and technical
capabilities. All positions are intermittent (part-time), on-call
(travel and field work required).
Must be able to pass an FBI Background Clearance check. Conditions in
the areas affected can be very challenging. While the work is arduous,
it is also very rewarding.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
> Willing to work long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and
disasters.
> Deployable on short notice for up to 30 days or longer, in response to
domestic disaster incidents.
> Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills
> Experienced in disaster relief work mass care sheltering and/or
feeding, including specific experience as shelter manager/ assistant
manager/ shift supervisor; feeding manager/ supervisor; bulk supply
distribution manager, or logistical support of these activities.
> Completion of FEMA Independent Study classes IS 100, 200, 700a, 800b,
26, 288, 701, 806. Otherwise candidate must complete within 30 days of
hire. Other related independent study/ training may be required.
> Must be able to effectively manage multiple priorities under extreme
pressure in a highly stressful environment.
> Able to work independently with little supervision, but also work well
as part of a cohesive team
> Able to focus on details while handling multiple tasks independently
> Proven leadership and interpersonal skills.
> Excellent written and oral communication skills.
> Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office including Outlook,
Excel, Word. SharePoint experience a plus.
> Job Location: nationwide (depends upon location of disaster incident)
> Position Type: reservist, on-call (deployed typically 30 - 60 days)
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
_______________________________________________________
John Burnap
Director, Readiness Operations Unit, PaTH LLC, IA-TAC III
Catastrophic incident response support for FEMA Regions VIII, IX, X
Senior Project Manager, DynCorp International
703.462.7132 desk
571.314.5148 bberry
John.Burnap@... mailto:John.Burnap@...
www.LinkedIn.com/in/johnburnap
Disaster Response Reservists: Mass Care Specialists
Job Description
Dewberry (www.dewberry.com) is augmenting its existing cadre of
part-time and intermittent staff to perform work for FEMA following
disaster incidents. Dewberry has supported FEMA for over 25 years on
disaster response and recovery assignments, and our contracts now
include supporting FEMA's mass care/ emergency assistance programs. We
require experienced individuals with a variety of skills and technical
capabilities. All positions are intermittent (part-time), on-call
(travel and field work required).
Must be able to pass an FBI Background Clearance check. Conditions in
the areas affected can be very challenging. While the work is arduous,
it is also very rewarding.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
> Willing to work long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and
disasters.
> Deployable on short notice for up to 30 days or longer, in response to
domestic disaster incidents.
> Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills
> Experienced in disaster relief work mass care sheltering and/or
feeding, including specific experience as shelter manager/ assistant
manager/ shift supervisor; feeding manager/ supervisor; bulk supply
distribution manager, or logistical support of these activities.
> Completion of FEMA Independent Study classes IS 100, 200, 700a, 800b,
26, 288, 701, 806. Otherwise candidate must complete within 30 days of
hire. Other related independent study/ training may be required.
> Must be able to effectively manage multiple priorities under extreme
pressure in a highly stressful environment.
> Able to work independently with little supervision, but also work well
as part of a cohesive team
> Able to focus on details while handling multiple tasks independently
> Proven leadership and interpersonal skills.
> Excellent written and oral communication skills.
> Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office including Outlook,
Excel, Word. SharePoint experience a plus.
> Job Location: nationwide (depends upon location of disaster incident)
> Position Type: reservist, on-call (deployed typically 30 - 60 days)
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
_______________________________________________________
John Burnap
Director, Readiness Operations Unit, PaTH LLC, IA-TAC III
Catastrophic incident response support for FEMA Regions VIII, IX, X
Senior Project Manager, DynCorp International
703.462.7132 desk
571.314.5148 bberry
John.Burnap@... mailto:John.Burnap@...
www.LinkedIn.com/in/johnburnap
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday
22Mar2010
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:00AM
First let me start off by saying that your Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag should not be your only, or main source in a survival situation. You should have other supplies ready to keep you and your family sustained for an extended period of time.
The idea of a Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag is to have supplies ready at a moments notice should you have to leave or evacuate from your home, or other location. These supplies should be packed ahead of time and hopefully placed into a backpack so it is comfortable to carry since you may be traveling a long distance.
In most cases you would not have time to gather the supplies needed during an evacuation, so it is best to have them ready to go at all times. I see many people intending to use a go-Bag as their main source for survival if everything goes south. I can't stress enough how important it is to keep your go-Bag separate from your regular supplies.
In addition, every member of your family, or party if you have one should have their own bag. Even children should have their own bags so long as they can carry one. We'll discuss go-Bags for kids at another time.
Now that we have covered the true purpose of a go-Bag lets discuss what you should put in it. First the bag should be a good solid bag, preferably as mentioned earlier a backpack. If you have to leave on foot, or become stranded a backpack is the easiest bag to carry.
What should you put into your bag? While many people argue about what items and brands are best to carry, we are just going to stick with the basics.
Here is a basic list of items you will want to consider including in your go-Bag:
Cash - plenty of it because depending on the event credit cards may not be useful. Consider having about $500 in ones (the more the better, and try to make them all singles), that way you never need change. A couple of quarter rolls could come in handy for Public phones, vending machines and laundry. Do not "flash" it around, unless you like being robbed, even assaulted, i.e. mugged. I suggest carrying different amounts in various pockets and keeping several "Throw Away Bills" in case you do get mugged, throw that onto the ground so you can make a fast get away.
First Aid Kit - a decent well-stocked kit, including a couple of weeks' supply of any prescription medications you need.
Sewing Kit. Include in this non-waxed floss and a U-shaped leather needle. Include extra needles, thread, buttons and if you can, fabric.
Clothing - Wool is best as cotton is useless once it gets wet; add thermal wear, underwear, sock and carry extras of everything.
Crank style Flashlight and glow-sticks.
Crank style NOAA weather/AM-FM Radio. If you use one that takes batteries, carry extras.
Food and water -- Carry enough to get you where you want to go plus extra.
Lighter, waterproof matches and another source such as a strike based fire starter. Always best to carry extras here as well.
Hand and feet warmers -- 2 per person if you can.
Good sleeping bag -- can double as a blanket at a shelter.
Good air matress if you can.
Wool blanket, not a must if you have a sleeping bag, but great to have.
Emergency Mylar Space blankets.
Good rain poncho -- one that covers you and your bag is best.
Rope -- Carry several, great for many things, from shelter, to rescue.
Duct Tape.
Tarp -- can double as emergency shelter if you don't have a tent.
Dust Masks carry several per person.
Maps -- local and the location where you want to go.
leather work gloves.
Folding saw.
Hatchet.
Multi-tool.
2 knives.
Toiletries.
compass/GPS (good to carry 2 compasses if just for reassurance).
Gun and ammo if possible.
Fishing hooks, and fishing wire, a couple of sinkers and floats ill be good too.
Important documents, license, passport, etc.
pen and paper.
This is a great list to get started with and you will have to make adjustments based on what type of load you can carry, and how far you are traveling.
What are some items that you keep in your go-Bag?
22Mar2010
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:00AM
First let me start off by saying that your Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag should not be your only, or main source in a survival situation. You should have other supplies ready to keep you and your family sustained for an extended period of time.
The idea of a Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag is to have supplies ready at a moments notice should you have to leave or evacuate from your home, or other location. These supplies should be packed ahead of time and hopefully placed into a backpack so it is comfortable to carry since you may be traveling a long distance.
In most cases you would not have time to gather the supplies needed during an evacuation, so it is best to have them ready to go at all times. I see many people intending to use a go-Bag as their main source for survival if everything goes south. I can't stress enough how important it is to keep your go-Bag separate from your regular supplies.
In addition, every member of your family, or party if you have one should have their own bag. Even children should have their own bags so long as they can carry one. We'll discuss go-Bags for kids at another time.
Now that we have covered the true purpose of a go-Bag lets discuss what you should put in it. First the bag should be a good solid bag, preferably as mentioned earlier a backpack. If you have to leave on foot, or become stranded a backpack is the easiest bag to carry.
What should you put into your bag? While many people argue about what items and brands are best to carry, we are just going to stick with the basics.
Here is a basic list of items you will want to consider including in your go-Bag:
Cash - plenty of it because depending on the event credit cards may not be useful. Consider having about $500 in ones (the more the better, and try to make them all singles), that way you never need change. A couple of quarter rolls could come in handy for Public phones, vending machines and laundry. Do not "flash" it around, unless you like being robbed, even assaulted, i.e. mugged. I suggest carrying different amounts in various pockets and keeping several "Throw Away Bills" in case you do get mugged, throw that onto the ground so you can make a fast get away.
First Aid Kit - a decent well-stocked kit, including a couple of weeks' supply of any prescription medications you need.
Sewing Kit. Include in this non-waxed floss and a U-shaped leather needle. Include extra needles, thread, buttons and if you can, fabric.
Clothing - Wool is best as cotton is useless once it gets wet; add thermal wear, underwear, sock and carry extras of everything.
Crank style Flashlight and glow-sticks.
Crank style NOAA weather/AM-FM Radio. If you use one that takes batteries, carry extras.
Food and water -- Carry enough to get you where you want to go plus extra.
Lighter, waterproof matches and another source such as a strike based fire starter. Always best to carry extras here as well.
Hand and feet warmers -- 2 per person if you can.
Good sleeping bag -- can double as a blanket at a shelter.
Good air matress if you can.
Wool blanket, not a must if you have a sleeping bag, but great to have.
Emergency Mylar Space blankets.
Good rain poncho -- one that covers you and your bag is best.
Rope -- Carry several, great for many things, from shelter, to rescue.
Duct Tape.
Tarp -- can double as emergency shelter if you don't have a tent.
Dust Masks carry several per person.
Maps -- local and the location where you want to go.
leather work gloves.
Folding saw.
Hatchet.
Multi-tool.
2 knives.
Toiletries.
compass/GPS (good to carry 2 compasses if just for reassurance).
Gun and ammo if possible.
Fishing hooks, and fishing wire, a couple of sinkers and floats ill be good too.
Important documents, license, passport, etc.
pen and paper.
This is a great list to get started with and you will have to make adjustments based on what type of load you can carry, and how far you are traveling.
What are some items that you keep in your go-Bag?
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Emergency Management Twitter Site
You can now follow activities regarding Jasper/Newton/Sabine Counties Emergency Management and other prepardness information on our new "Twitter" site at http://www.twitter.com/jaspercounty
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March Meeting of ETMA
Olen Bean has just returned from Haiti and will be giving a presentation on his tour for the Texas Baptist Men's Association relief efforts.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact the Jasper County E.M. Billy Ted Smith at (409) 994-2543 or Kirbie Moss at 409-504-9047 .This includes any requests for department head updates or changes/additions to contact information. Hope to see you there.
Billy Ted Smith - President, ETMA
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Posts (Atom)
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
JNS Facebook Site
Become a Facebook Fan on Jasper-Newton-Sabine Emergency Management/Homeland Security. Check us out at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Buna-TX/Jasper-Newton-Sabine-Counties-Emergency-Management/110184682334320?ref=ts
Possible Severe Weather
"Confidence is high regarding the threat of severe weather across Texas and Oklahoma as a vigorous upper-level storm system approaches from the west. Abundant moisture will begin streaming into portions of eastern Texas and Oklahoma today and Thursday ahead of an approaching storm system. By mid-day Friday, a well-defined north-to-south oriented dry line is expected have pushed as far east as Wichita Falls and just east of San Angelo. The dry line will continue to push eastward during the afternoon and evening hours Friday, triggering the development of the storms.
IMPACT AREA: At present, the greatest impact zone appears to be Central and North Texas (including the DFW Metroplex), as well as southern portions of Oklahoma.
TIMING: Thunderstorms will likely form at, or just before, midday Friday along the developing dry line and spread into North Central Texas (and the DFW area) during the early evening. The storms will progress eastward across the remainder of the State during the overnight hours, when the threat for severe weather will begin to diminish.
THREAT: The greatest threat appears to be damaging straight-line winds and large hail, although the threat of tornado occurrence exists. Though widespread flash flooding is not expected, given the amount of ground moisture already present in the threat area, flash flooding is possible in heavier thunderstorms"
IMPACT AREA: At present, the greatest impact zone appears to be Central and North Texas (including the DFW Metroplex), as well as southern portions of Oklahoma.
TIMING: Thunderstorms will likely form at, or just before, midday Friday along the developing dry line and spread into North Central Texas (and the DFW area) during the early evening. The storms will progress eastward across the remainder of the State during the overnight hours, when the threat for severe weather will begin to diminish.
THREAT: The greatest threat appears to be damaging straight-line winds and large hail, although the threat of tornado occurrence exists. Though widespread flash flooding is not expected, given the amount of ground moisture already present in the threat area, flash flooding is possible in heavier thunderstorms"
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
April ETMA Meeting
The next meeting of the East Texas Mutual Aid Association will be held on Thursday April 15, 2010 at 7:00 PM. The host for this meeting will be the Buna Volunteer Fire Department. The location will be at the BVFD station on Hwy 62 in Buna.
Please make every effort to attend or send someone to represent you.
For mor information contact President Billy Ted Snith or Secretary Kirbie Moss at 409-994-2543
Please make every effort to attend or send someone to represent you.
For mor information contact President Billy Ted Snith or Secretary Kirbie Moss at 409-994-2543
Disaster Reservists Needed
Reservists are needed to support FEMA’s response to catastrophic disasters or incidents as defined by the Stafford Act. Deployments will be on short notice for up to 30 days or longer and will require long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and disasters. In some cases, 12 hour shifts seven-days-a week will be expected. The size and scope of the mission will vary based on the geography, scale and magnitude of damage, type of incident, impact on the national security, and the projected number of affected individuals and households, as well as the availability of resources (housing, personnel, supplies, and materials).
Background, job descriptions, and contact information for interested candidates are included At the link below.
http://www.allhandsconsulting.com/pr08.htm
Background, job descriptions, and contact information for interested candidates are included At the link below.
http://www.allhandsconsulting.com/pr08.htm
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Copper Theft Prevalence
Skyrocketing prices for copper have made a minor nuisance of past years into a major and costly problem today, according to "coppertheft.info." "Pipes, wires, cables, gutters, and flashing are being torn from walls and buildings."
Numerous law enforcement sources also reported that both individuals and organized criminals have targeted telecommunications, electrical substations, and railway lines, as well as wiring and piping in homes and businesses in order to steal copper sections.
The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) verified that copper thefts pose electrical hazards to both the workers of the affected infrastructure and to the perpetrators themselves.
Additionally, these thefts create dangers for Emergency Services Sector personnel in the following ways:
· Exposed live electrical wires can compromise safety and operational effectiveness.
· Large-scale ramifications of losing communications and electrical power networks.
· Hazards associated with damaged rail switches and other critical components.
Because of the copper theft prevalence throughout the United States, the EMR-ISAC recognizes that first responders must proceed cautiously at any incident scene where the pilfering of this metal is suspected, alleged, or verified.
More information regarding how copper thefts threaten U.S. critical infrastructures can be seen in an FBI report on the subject.
Read more at:
http://coppertheft.info/
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/majorthefts/coppertheft_120308b.htm
Numerous law enforcement sources also reported that both individuals and organized criminals have targeted telecommunications, electrical substations, and railway lines, as well as wiring and piping in homes and businesses in order to steal copper sections.
The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) verified that copper thefts pose electrical hazards to both the workers of the affected infrastructure and to the perpetrators themselves.
Additionally, these thefts create dangers for Emergency Services Sector personnel in the following ways:
· Exposed live electrical wires can compromise safety and operational effectiveness.
· Large-scale ramifications of losing communications and electrical power networks.
· Hazards associated with damaged rail switches and other critical components.
Because of the copper theft prevalence throughout the United States, the EMR-ISAC recognizes that first responders must proceed cautiously at any incident scene where the pilfering of this metal is suspected, alleged, or verified.
More information regarding how copper thefts threaten U.S. critical infrastructures can be seen in an FBI report on the subject.
Read more at:
http://coppertheft.info/
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/majorthefts/coppertheft_120308b.htm
Dealing with incidents involving pipelines - High Pressure Natural Gas
Here are two websites that may assist emergency responders dealing with both gas and liquid pipeline incidents.
http://www.papapipelinevideos.com/
http://pipeline.mindgrabmedia.com/main.aspx
Both of these are web based training sites with videos and interactive training modules and scenarios.
http://www.papapipelinevideos.com/
http://pipeline.mindgrabmedia.com/main.aspx
Both of these are web based training sites with videos and interactive training modules and scenarios.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
News Release
March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
The Texas Department of State Health Services is looking for six small lead containers filled with a potentially dangerous radioactive material that were stolen late Friday night from a private company’s pickup truck parked outside the Walmart store in Alice.
The containers were in a clear plastic bag that was taken from a toolbox in the back of the truck. Each metal container is shrink-wrapped and contains a glass vial of ceramic granules called radioactive tracer “sand,” used in the oil and gas industry.
A person handling the containers or the sand could be at risk of radiation exposure.
DSHS officials said anyone who has information about the containers should call their local police or sheriff’s department or DSHS at (512) 458-7460.
The truck is owned by ProTechnics, a Houston-based company. The company is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the containers.
A photograph of the bag is available here: www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/images/Ir-192-Six-Pack.jpg.
-30-
(News Media Contact: Carrie Williams, Acting Press Officer, 512-458-7119.)
DSHS Press Office on Twitter
March 24, 2010
Officials Looking for Stolen Containers of Radioactive Material
The Texas Department of State Health Services is looking for six small lead containers filled with a potentially dangerous radioactive material that were stolen late Friday night from a private company’s pickup truck parked outside the Walmart store in Alice.
The containers were in a clear plastic bag that was taken from a toolbox in the back of the truck. Each metal container is shrink-wrapped and contains a glass vial of ceramic granules called radioactive tracer “sand,” used in the oil and gas industry.
A person handling the containers or the sand could be at risk of radiation exposure.
DSHS officials said anyone who has information about the containers should call their local police or sheriff’s department or DSHS at (512) 458-7460.
The truck is owned by ProTechnics, a Houston-based company. The company is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the containers.
A photograph of the bag is available here: www.dshs.state.tx.us/news/images/Ir-192-Six-Pack.jpg.
-30-
(News Media Contact: Carrie Williams, Acting Press Officer, 512-458-7119.)
DSHS Press Office on Twitter
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Job Opportunity
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
Disaster Response Reservists: Mass Care Specialists
Job Description
Dewberry (www.dewberry.com) is augmenting its existing cadre of
part-time and intermittent staff to perform work for FEMA following
disaster incidents. Dewberry has supported FEMA for over 25 years on
disaster response and recovery assignments, and our contracts now
include supporting FEMA's mass care/ emergency assistance programs. We
require experienced individuals with a variety of skills and technical
capabilities. All positions are intermittent (part-time), on-call
(travel and field work required).
Must be able to pass an FBI Background Clearance check. Conditions in
the areas affected can be very challenging. While the work is arduous,
it is also very rewarding.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
> Willing to work long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and
disasters.
> Deployable on short notice for up to 30 days or longer, in response to
domestic disaster incidents.
> Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills
> Experienced in disaster relief work mass care sheltering and/or
feeding, including specific experience as shelter manager/ assistant
manager/ shift supervisor; feeding manager/ supervisor; bulk supply
distribution manager, or logistical support of these activities.
> Completion of FEMA Independent Study classes IS 100, 200, 700a, 800b,
26, 288, 701, 806. Otherwise candidate must complete within 30 days of
hire. Other related independent study/ training may be required.
> Must be able to effectively manage multiple priorities under extreme
pressure in a highly stressful environment.
> Able to work independently with little supervision, but also work well
as part of a cohesive team
> Able to focus on details while handling multiple tasks independently
> Proven leadership and interpersonal skills.
> Excellent written and oral communication skills.
> Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office including Outlook,
Excel, Word. SharePoint experience a plus.
> Job Location: nationwide (depends upon location of disaster incident)
> Position Type: reservist, on-call (deployed typically 30 - 60 days)
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
_______________________________________________________
John Burnap
Director, Readiness Operations Unit, PaTH LLC, IA-TAC III
Catastrophic incident response support for FEMA Regions VIII, IX, X
Senior Project Manager, DynCorp International
703.462.7132 desk
571.314.5148 bberry
John.Burnap@... mailto:John.Burnap@...
www.LinkedIn.com/in/johnburnap
Disaster Response Reservists: Mass Care Specialists
Job Description
Dewberry (www.dewberry.com) is augmenting its existing cadre of
part-time and intermittent staff to perform work for FEMA following
disaster incidents. Dewberry has supported FEMA for over 25 years on
disaster response and recovery assignments, and our contracts now
include supporting FEMA's mass care/ emergency assistance programs. We
require experienced individuals with a variety of skills and technical
capabilities. All positions are intermittent (part-time), on-call
(travel and field work required).
Must be able to pass an FBI Background Clearance check. Conditions in
the areas affected can be very challenging. While the work is arduous,
it is also very rewarding.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
> Willing to work long and/or odd hours in support of emergencies and
disasters.
> Deployable on short notice for up to 30 days or longer, in response to
domestic disaster incidents.
> Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills
> Experienced in disaster relief work mass care sheltering and/or
feeding, including specific experience as shelter manager/ assistant
manager/ shift supervisor; feeding manager/ supervisor; bulk supply
distribution manager, or logistical support of these activities.
> Completion of FEMA Independent Study classes IS 100, 200, 700a, 800b,
26, 288, 701, 806. Otherwise candidate must complete within 30 days of
hire. Other related independent study/ training may be required.
> Must be able to effectively manage multiple priorities under extreme
pressure in a highly stressful environment.
> Able to work independently with little supervision, but also work well
as part of a cohesive team
> Able to focus on details while handling multiple tasks independently
> Proven leadership and interpersonal skills.
> Excellent written and oral communication skills.
> Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office including Outlook,
Excel, Word. SharePoint experience a plus.
> Job Location: nationwide (depends upon location of disaster incident)
> Position Type: reservist, on-call (deployed typically 30 - 60 days)
Apply here: http://tinyurl.com/ylzka23
_______________________________________________________
John Burnap
Director, Readiness Operations Unit, PaTH LLC, IA-TAC III
Catastrophic incident response support for FEMA Regions VIII, IX, X
Senior Project Manager, DynCorp International
703.462.7132 desk
571.314.5148 bberry
John.Burnap@... mailto:John.Burnap@...
www.LinkedIn.com/in/johnburnap
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday
22Mar2010
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:00AM
First let me start off by saying that your Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag should not be your only, or main source in a survival situation. You should have other supplies ready to keep you and your family sustained for an extended period of time.
The idea of a Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag is to have supplies ready at a moments notice should you have to leave or evacuate from your home, or other location. These supplies should be packed ahead of time and hopefully placed into a backpack so it is comfortable to carry since you may be traveling a long distance.
In most cases you would not have time to gather the supplies needed during an evacuation, so it is best to have them ready to go at all times. I see many people intending to use a go-Bag as their main source for survival if everything goes south. I can't stress enough how important it is to keep your go-Bag separate from your regular supplies.
In addition, every member of your family, or party if you have one should have their own bag. Even children should have their own bags so long as they can carry one. We'll discuss go-Bags for kids at another time.
Now that we have covered the true purpose of a go-Bag lets discuss what you should put in it. First the bag should be a good solid bag, preferably as mentioned earlier a backpack. If you have to leave on foot, or become stranded a backpack is the easiest bag to carry.
What should you put into your bag? While many people argue about what items and brands are best to carry, we are just going to stick with the basics.
Here is a basic list of items you will want to consider including in your go-Bag:
Cash - plenty of it because depending on the event credit cards may not be useful. Consider having about $500 in ones (the more the better, and try to make them all singles), that way you never need change. A couple of quarter rolls could come in handy for Public phones, vending machines and laundry. Do not "flash" it around, unless you like being robbed, even assaulted, i.e. mugged. I suggest carrying different amounts in various pockets and keeping several "Throw Away Bills" in case you do get mugged, throw that onto the ground so you can make a fast get away.
First Aid Kit - a decent well-stocked kit, including a couple of weeks' supply of any prescription medications you need.
Sewing Kit. Include in this non-waxed floss and a U-shaped leather needle. Include extra needles, thread, buttons and if you can, fabric.
Clothing - Wool is best as cotton is useless once it gets wet; add thermal wear, underwear, sock and carry extras of everything.
Crank style Flashlight and glow-sticks.
Crank style NOAA weather/AM-FM Radio. If you use one that takes batteries, carry extras.
Food and water -- Carry enough to get you where you want to go plus extra.
Lighter, waterproof matches and another source such as a strike based fire starter. Always best to carry extras here as well.
Hand and feet warmers -- 2 per person if you can.
Good sleeping bag -- can double as a blanket at a shelter.
Good air matress if you can.
Wool blanket, not a must if you have a sleeping bag, but great to have.
Emergency Mylar Space blankets.
Good rain poncho -- one that covers you and your bag is best.
Rope -- Carry several, great for many things, from shelter, to rescue.
Duct Tape.
Tarp -- can double as emergency shelter if you don't have a tent.
Dust Masks carry several per person.
Maps -- local and the location where you want to go.
leather work gloves.
Folding saw.
Hatchet.
Multi-tool.
2 knives.
Toiletries.
compass/GPS (good to carry 2 compasses if just for reassurance).
Gun and ammo if possible.
Fishing hooks, and fishing wire, a couple of sinkers and floats ill be good too.
Important documents, license, passport, etc.
pen and paper.
This is a great list to get started with and you will have to make adjustments based on what type of load you can carry, and how far you are traveling.
What are some items that you keep in your go-Bag?
22Mar2010
Disaster Tip of the Week: Start and Keep a Go Bag Ready At All Times
Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5:00AM
First let me start off by saying that your Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag should not be your only, or main source in a survival situation. You should have other supplies ready to keep you and your family sustained for an extended period of time.
The idea of a Go-Bag or Bug-Out Bag is to have supplies ready at a moments notice should you have to leave or evacuate from your home, or other location. These supplies should be packed ahead of time and hopefully placed into a backpack so it is comfortable to carry since you may be traveling a long distance.
In most cases you would not have time to gather the supplies needed during an evacuation, so it is best to have them ready to go at all times. I see many people intending to use a go-Bag as their main source for survival if everything goes south. I can't stress enough how important it is to keep your go-Bag separate from your regular supplies.
In addition, every member of your family, or party if you have one should have their own bag. Even children should have their own bags so long as they can carry one. We'll discuss go-Bags for kids at another time.
Now that we have covered the true purpose of a go-Bag lets discuss what you should put in it. First the bag should be a good solid bag, preferably as mentioned earlier a backpack. If you have to leave on foot, or become stranded a backpack is the easiest bag to carry.
What should you put into your bag? While many people argue about what items and brands are best to carry, we are just going to stick with the basics.
Here is a basic list of items you will want to consider including in your go-Bag:
Cash - plenty of it because depending on the event credit cards may not be useful. Consider having about $500 in ones (the more the better, and try to make them all singles), that way you never need change. A couple of quarter rolls could come in handy for Public phones, vending machines and laundry. Do not "flash" it around, unless you like being robbed, even assaulted, i.e. mugged. I suggest carrying different amounts in various pockets and keeping several "Throw Away Bills" in case you do get mugged, throw that onto the ground so you can make a fast get away.
First Aid Kit - a decent well-stocked kit, including a couple of weeks' supply of any prescription medications you need.
Sewing Kit. Include in this non-waxed floss and a U-shaped leather needle. Include extra needles, thread, buttons and if you can, fabric.
Clothing - Wool is best as cotton is useless once it gets wet; add thermal wear, underwear, sock and carry extras of everything.
Crank style Flashlight and glow-sticks.
Crank style NOAA weather/AM-FM Radio. If you use one that takes batteries, carry extras.
Food and water -- Carry enough to get you where you want to go plus extra.
Lighter, waterproof matches and another source such as a strike based fire starter. Always best to carry extras here as well.
Hand and feet warmers -- 2 per person if you can.
Good sleeping bag -- can double as a blanket at a shelter.
Good air matress if you can.
Wool blanket, not a must if you have a sleeping bag, but great to have.
Emergency Mylar Space blankets.
Good rain poncho -- one that covers you and your bag is best.
Rope -- Carry several, great for many things, from shelter, to rescue.
Duct Tape.
Tarp -- can double as emergency shelter if you don't have a tent.
Dust Masks carry several per person.
Maps -- local and the location where you want to go.
leather work gloves.
Folding saw.
Hatchet.
Multi-tool.
2 knives.
Toiletries.
compass/GPS (good to carry 2 compasses if just for reassurance).
Gun and ammo if possible.
Fishing hooks, and fishing wire, a couple of sinkers and floats ill be good too.
Important documents, license, passport, etc.
pen and paper.
This is a great list to get started with and you will have to make adjustments based on what type of load you can carry, and how far you are traveling.
What are some items that you keep in your go-Bag?
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Emergency Management Twitter Site
You can now follow activities regarding Jasper/Newton/Sabine Counties Emergency Management and other prepardness information on our new "Twitter" site at http://www.twitter.com/jaspercounty
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March Meeting of ETMA
Olen Bean has just returned from Haiti and will be giving a presentation on his tour for the Texas Baptist Men's Association relief efforts.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact the Jasper County E.M. Billy Ted Smith at (409) 994-2543 or Kirbie Moss at 409-504-9047 .This includes any requests for department head updates or changes/additions to contact information. Hope to see you there.
Billy Ted Smith - President, ETMA
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