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On Friday, April 23, 2004 at a scheduled ultrasound I learned my son of 28 weeks 3 days gestation had passed away. It was entirly unexpected as all appointments and ultrasounds prior too were great with no issues at all. His heart beat was even heard on Monday the 19th. As of right now all the docor has told us is that he was small for his gestational age, about 3-4 weeks behind in grouth and that there was very little amniotic fluid. He listed some things that could have been the cause but quite frankly after my heart had been ripped out and run over by a MACK Truck I didnt comprehend much of what he said. I know he mentioned Preeclampsia which I was trying to do research on when I found this site. We had to wait the entire day Friday and Saturday, it wasnt until Sunday the 25th that the hospital admited her for delivery. What a horrable weekend. When they broke her water Sunday night there was little if any amniotic fluid. We were fortunate enough to get 2 hours with our son, holding him, cuddling him, loving him and telling him how proud we where of him. All of our family was there so we were able to all see him. Not neerly enough time but yet I'm greatful we had at least that. I didnt think things could get any worse, unfortunatly I was wrong. After going home Monday morning, my wife began getting sever back pains, by Thursday she had had a 102 temp. I rushed her to the ER to find out she had a blood clot in her right lung. The doctors began preparing me for the worst.. I could loose my son and wife in the same week.. Luckly she responded well to treatment and was discharged yesterday and is doing 100 times better. These things seem too couinsidental to not be related. We have to wait another 5 weeks until we go back to her OBGYN to get some insite as to what might have happened causing us to loose our baby.. She did have higher blood pressure (not terrable but much higher then her normally very low), some protien in her urion, she had just begun swelling pretty bad in her ankles so I imagine they are going to say preeclampsia but will this cause a lack of amniotic fluid? Perhaps it has something to do with a blood clot. Does anyone have any opinions?
Mom and I love and miss you very much.. Shane Andrew, April 25, 2004


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Home > Drought: The BasicsDrought: Sensible Water UseFire Safety and Prevention: Wildland FiresFire Safety at HomeFlood and Flash Flood SafetyFlood PreparednessFlood Safety: Turn Around, Don't DrownFlood: Cleaning Carpets and FloorsFlood: Cleaning Linens and BeddingFlood: Cleaning the Home or Business PropertyFlood: Dishes and UtensilsFlood: Drying Books and Valuable PapersFlood: Record Keeping After the FloodFlood: Returning Home After the FloodFlood: Watch, Warning and Advisory CriteriaHeat and AthletesHeat and People with Mental IllnessesHeat Related IllnessesHeat Related Illnesses and the ElderlyHeat Related Illnesses in YouthHeat: Staying Cool in Extreme HeatHousehold Chemical EmergencyHousehold Chemicals and Hazardous MaterialsHurricane!Hurricane: Preparedness for BoatersHurricane: Before, During and After the StormHurricane: Watch, Warning and Advisory CriteriaLightning: Awareness and SafetyLightning: Outdoor SafetyLightning: Questions and AnswersLightning: Quick FactsLightning: Safe Shelter and Indoor SafetyPandemic FluRed Tide (Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning) SafetySummer Storms: Watch, Warning and Advisory CriteriaTerrorism Preparedness: Get the FactsTornadoWinter Safety: Preventing HypothermiaWinter Safety: Wood Burning and Lung HealthWinter Storms: Watch, Warning and Advisory CriteriaWinter: Your Car's Preparedness KitHome and Family: Getting StartedPlan Together for an EmergencyBuild a Disaster Supply Kit for Your HomeMake a Family Communications PlanStay InformedBe Sure of Your InformationCarbon Monoxide Safety in Power OutagesHome First Aid ChecklistAnimals: Livestock PreparednessAnimals: Preparedness for Horse OwnersAnimals: Preventing Barn FiresVolunteering in a DisasterMaking Donations to Disaster AreasFinancial Disaster PlanningIf You Have to Leave Your HomeNOAA Weather RadioYour Grab-N-Go BagIf You Have a DisabilityAlternative Heat Source SafetyEau potable, mesures de sécuritéPreventing or Thawing Frozen Water PipesRecommandations à suivre pour les puits inondésReporting Severe WeatherReturning Home: Record-KeepingTake Care of Your Emotional HealthBusiness Preparedness: Getting StartedCamping SafetySchool Preparedness: Getting StartedSchool Preparedness: ResourcesSummer Barbecue SafetyAnimals: Pets and LivestockFood Safety: Frozen FoodsFood Safety: Consumer GuidanceFood Safety: GeneralLyme Disease SafetyMold: Questions and AnswersTree Cutting and Trimming SafetyTurkey Day SafetyAnimals: Livestock First Aid KitBusiness Preparedness: A ChecklistCommunity Preparedness: The Municipal RoleFlood InsuranceIf You Use Child Care: Preparedness GuideInsurance Questions for Small Business OwnersIs Your Town StormReady?NFIP and the Community Rating SystemPlanning for Emergencies: InsurancePlanning for People with DisabilitiesPreparing for a Technology DisasterRip Current SafetyService Organization Preparedness: Getting StartedShelter-in-Place? What is that?Animals: Birds, Snakes, Hamsters and their friendsChain Saw SafetyCommunity Emergency Response Teams (CERT)Community Preparedness: Many Pieces with a Single GoalDrinking Water SafetyGenerator SafetyFlood: Cleaning your ClothesIRS Tax Center - Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and BusinessesEarthquakes: What You Should KnowEarthquakes: What To Do BeforeEarthquakes: What To Do DuringEarthquakes: What To Do AfterEmergency Supplies and Grab-n-Go BagLightning: The Reality for Lightning Strike VictimsLightning: The ScienceMold: Clean-upCommunicating Before, During & After DisastersEarthquakes: Poster of Occurrences in Maine (Adobe .pdf format)Earthquakes: Poster for Finding Home Hazards (Adobe .pdf format)Winter Safety: If Stranded with your Vehicle
Drought: The Basics
Drought: Sensible Water Use
Fire Safety and Prevention: Wildland Fires
Fire Safety at Home
Flood and Flash Flood Safety
Flood Preparedness
Flood Safety: Turn Around, Don't Drown
Flood: Cleaning Carpets and Floors
Flood: Cleaning Linens and Bedding
Flood: Cleaning the Home or Business Property
Flood: Dishes and Utensils
Flood: Drying Books and Valuable Papers
Flood: Record Keeping After the Flood
Flood: Returning Home After the Flood
Flood: Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria
Heat and Athletes
Heat and People with Mental Illnesses
Heat Related Illnesses
Heat Related Illnesses and the Elderly
Heat Related Illnesses in Youth
Heat: Staying Cool in Extreme Heat
Household Chemical Emergency
Household Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
Hurricane: Preparedness for Boaters
Hurricane: Before, During and After the Storm
Hurricane: Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria
Lightning: Awareness and Safety
Lightning: Outdoor Safety
Lightning: Questions and Answers
Lightning: Quick Facts
Lightning: Safe Shelter and Indoor Safety
Pandemic Flu
Red Tide (Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning) Safety
Summer Storms: Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria
Terrorism Preparedness: Get the Facts
Winter Safety: Preventing Hypothermia
Winter Safety: Wood Burning and Lung Health
Winter Storms: Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria
Winter: Your Car's Preparedness Kit
Home and Family: Getting Started
Plan Together for an Emergency
Build a Disaster Supply Kit for Your Home
Make a Family Communications Plan
Stay Informed
Be Sure of Your Information
Carbon Monoxide Safety in Power Outages
Home First Aid Checklist
Animals: Livestock Preparedness
Animals: Preparedness for Horse Owners
Animals: Preventing Barn Fires
Volunteering in a Disaster
Making Donations to Disaster Areas
Financial Disaster Planning
If You Have to Leave Your Home
NOAA Weather Radio
Your Grab-N-Go Bag
If You Have a Disability
Alternative Heat Source Safety
Eau potable, mesures de sécurité
Preventing or Thawing Frozen Water Pipes
Recommandations à suivre pour les puits inondés
Reporting Severe Weather
Returning Home: Record-Keeping
Take Care of Your Emotional Health
Business Preparedness: Getting Started
Camping Safety
School Preparedness: Getting Started
School Preparedness: Resources
Summer Barbecue Safety
Animals: Pets and Livestock
Food Safety: Frozen Foods
Food Safety: Consumer Guidance
Food Safety: General
Lyme Disease Safety
Mold: Questions and Answers
Tree Cutting and Trimming Safety
Turkey Day Safety
Animals: Livestock First Aid Kit
Business Preparedness: A Checklist
Community Preparedness: The Municipal Role
Flood Insurance
If You Use Child Care: Preparedness Guide
Insurance Questions for Small Business Owners
Is Your Town StormReady?
NFIP and the Community Rating System
Planning for Emergencies: Insurance
Planning for People with Disabilities
Preparing for a Technology Disaster
Rip Current Safety
Service Organization Preparedness: Getting Started
Shelter-in-Place? What is that?
Animals: Birds, Snakes, Hamsters and their friends
Chain Saw Safety
Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)
Community Preparedness: Many Pieces with a Single Goal
Drinking Water Safety
Generator Safety
Flood: Cleaning your Clothes
IRS Tax Center - Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses
Earthquakes: What You Should Know
Earthquakes: What To Do Before
Earthquakes: What To Do During
Earthquakes: What To Do After
Emergency Supplies and Grab-n-Go Bag
Lightning: The Reality for Lightning Strike Victims
Lightning: The Science
Mold: Clean-up
Communicating Before, During & After Disasters
Earthquakes: Poster of Occurrences in Maine (Adobe .pdf format)
Earthquakes: Poster for Finding Home Hazards (Adobe .pdf format)
Winter Safety: If Stranded with your Vehicle
See Also ...
Maine traditionally has had few drought concerns as we are a water rich state. Regional water shortages, or a water shortage that affects a home or neighborhood, are not uncommon.
Droughts occur about every 20 years with severe 3–5 year droughts occurring about every 40 years. A serious drought affected Maine in 2001 through 2003.
A little over half of Maine people are served by a water district. The rest have private wells. Wells that are dug are especially vulnerable to water shortages. Drilled wells are less vulnerable because they reach down into the bedrock where water levels do not change quickly. However, a severe drought over a long period of time can affect the water available in drilled wells.
In a local water shortage or long drought, take steps to conserve water in your home, make sure your water is safe, and protect your water system:
Stay tuned to news, and any special information put out by your water utility, or by the town or state about water supply, and drinking water safety
If you get your water from a water utility:
Remember, you can save money and help the environment by sensible water use at any time. See our Sensible Water Use Tips for more information.
If you have a private well:
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If your water comes from a public water supply, the advice that comes from your water utility should always be your first guide to home water use.
If you have a private well, often you are as much concerned with avoiding a temporary over-withdrawal from your well, which can damage your pump and necessitate expensive repairs.
Long-Term Water Conservation
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Maine is no stranger to catastrophic fires. In fact, every year Maine's Fire Departments and the Maine Forest Service respond to grass and woodland fires in every part of the State.
Within the last 100 years we have experienced many episodes of grass and forest fires that have ravaged 100's of acres. This can occur any time of the year. However, Maine is most vulnerable in the Spring and Fall when vegetation is not as "green" as during the dry months of summer.
Safety Precautions
Many grass and woodland fires start due to a "human element" such as carelessness with smoking materials, unsafe campfires and arson. Even permitted fires can get out of control in a very short period of time. By following simple fire prevention rules, we can all do our part to keep from starting these dangerous fires.
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According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal two large causes of home fires in Maine are heating sources and cooking.
A few other documented causes are open flame (candle), ember or a torch and a number of fires because of an unknown or suspicious source.
Tips for a Safer Home
Here are some easy ways to help make your home safer:
What to do in a Fire Emergency
Should you find yourself and your home confronted with a fire, there are certain steps that should be taken to insure safety. These tactics vary according to the size and type of the fire. Knowing what to do during a fire can eliminate the panic and save your life.
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When Maine's large rivers flood, we usually have some advance notice, and The National Weather Service issues flood watches and warnings.
Flash floods can happen whenever we get too much rain in too short a time, at any time of year. Warnings are issued, but may be only shortly in advance of the flooding, or flooding may already be occurring.
Here are some facts you may not know:
Here are some flood/flash flood safety tips:
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Maine's primary natural hazard is flooding. Our most flood prone months are April, January and March. These are the months when snow pack is most subject to natural variables such as the "January Thaw" and seasonal rain falls that cause rapid snow melt and run off.
Winter and spring flooding can be further impacted by ice jams. The sudden release of an ice jam can have the same affect as a dam breach.
However, floods can happen at any time, in almost any location from too much rain in too short a time. In October of 1996, catastrophic flooding occurred in York and Cumberland Counties; over a foot of rain in a day was recorded in some locations.
Remember: "The three primary causes of flooding in Maine are rain, rain and more rain".
Safety Precautions:
To protect your home or business from flood damage and loss:
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Most flood-related deaths and injuries could be avoided if people who come upon areas covered with water followed this simple advice from the National Weather Service: Turn Around Don't Drown™.
The reason that so many people drown during flooding is because few of them realize the incredible power of water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs.
If you come to an area that is covered with water, you will not know the depth of the water or the condition of the ground under the water. This is especially true at night, when your vision is more limited.
Play it smart, play it safe. Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded road, TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN!
Follow these safety rules:
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It is best to get professional cleaners to work on carpets and floors, but this may not be possible. Here are some steps you can take immediately to clean up:
Carpets and Rugs
Sections of subfloors that separate must be replaced to avoid buckling. When floor coverings are removed, allow subfloors to dry thoroughly.
Vinyl floors
Sheet flooring
Wood floors
You may also call the Cooperative Extension Service for advice. Check your telephone directory for their 800 number.
For More Information
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Often, flood-damaged sheets, blankets, quilts, etc. can be cleaned. However, anything that can't be cleaned should be discarded, as flood water is usually contaminated water. Here are some tips:
You may need to take thick comforters apart , then wash cover and filling separately.
Woolen Bedding and Lightweight Quilts
Electric Blankets
Foam Rubber or Urethane Pillows
Polyester Fiberfill Pillows
Feather Pillows
Renovation is not usually possible. It is best to buy a replacement mattress. However, if a mattress must be used temporarily:
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When the water recedes, a layer of mud is left. Shovel or scrape it off. Hose down the walls and floors to remove the remaining mud. Do not allow mud to dry -- wash it off while it is still wet. To control odors and effectively clean flooded surfaces such as walls, baseboards, floors, etc., wash them with commercial laundry bleach solution (two ounces to two gallons of water).
Document the damage before cleaning up. Take pictures if possible. If you have insurance, contact your agent.
The following information is the best we have available, but there is no guarantee it is correct for your situation. Use your best judgment. Consult experts whenever possible. Professional restoration, cleaning or salvage companies may offer free advice to affected homeowners. Your Cooperative Extension Service has an 800 telephone number.
Appliances: Wash refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, air conditioners and ranges. Dry completely. If possible, have them checked by a serviceman before using.
Bedding and Linens: See special information sheet.
Books and Papers: See special information sheet.
Clothing: Put clothes that were covered with water on a line and hose them down. When mud is removed, launder and/or dry clean. See special information sheet.
Concrete: Wash off and give a bleach bath.
Dishes and Cooking Utensils: See special information sheet.
Draperies: If they are soaked, hose them down immediately. Take to professional cleaners.
Electric Motors: Motors in appliances should be thoroughly cleaned and reconditioned before being used. If possible, have it done by a repairman. Clean, dry and oil at lubrication points of sealed motor units as soon as possible. Rinse unsealed motors with clean water under low pressure, while turning the motor over slowly by hand. Use a hair dryer to dry electric outlets and other electrical devices.
Fixtures: Inspect and empty water. Allow to dry thoroughly before using.
Floors, Rugs and Carpets: It is best to get professional cleaners to work on carpets and floors, but this may not be possible. Hose down to get excess mud and debris off. Then dry. Begin cleanup as soon as possible. While cleaning, wash exposed skin frequently in purified water. Wear rubber gloves for extra protection. See special information sheet.
Food: See special information sheet.
Furniture: Wash upholstered furniture, automobile upholstery and other household articles with soap and water. Expose to sun and air until thoroughly dry. Solid wood furniture usually can be restored.
Grass, Trees, Shrubbery: They often return to normal after submersion for several days. If trees and shrubs are damaged, they should be supported by wood stakes, etc.
Paintings: If painting is particularly valuable, take it to a professional restorer. Wipe other paintings with a mild soap solution and soft cloth.
Plaster Walls and Ceilings: Hose down if covered with a heavy mud residue. Allow to dry. Wash down with 2 tablespoons sodium hypochlorite laundry bleach (such as Purex or Clorox) to a gallon of water or use a household detergent, following the directions on the container. For deposits of water in the ceiling, remove the light fixtures, and drain the water out through the hole.
Refuse: Cover all flood deposited refuse with at least two feet of earth.
Electronic Equipment: If the unit was completely covered by water, hose down to clean and thoroughly wipe off electrical connections that are easily accessible, being careful not to cause breakage. Dry as quickly as possible. Do not attempt to operate the unit until it is completely dry. If it still does not work, consult a repair person.
Tiles: If tiles are waterproof and have been laid with waterproof glue, they should not be injured by submersion. Tiles laid with water-soluble glue will come up soon after the flood waters subside. If laid on masonite or wood floors, the floor under the tiles may buckle, causing the tiles to loosen. Ceramic tiles should be unaffected, but the wall behind the tiles may buckle or warp, causing tiles to come loose.
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Flood waters may carry silt, raw sewage, oil or chemical waste. Before using any dishes, pots, pans or cooking utensils that were in contact with flood water, wash and sterilize them. If in doubt, contact your local University of Maine Cooperative Extension office or the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-800-535-4555.
Discard Immediately:
General Instructions:
To Control Rusting:
Iron :
Locks and Hinges
Stainless Steel, Nickel-Copper Alloy, Nickel or Chrome-Plated Metals
Aluminum Pans and Utensils
Copper and Brass
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If you can't work with your books immediately, freeze them to control mold growth.
Dry books and papers slowly.
Photocopy important documents and papers. Even if they seem to have dried successfully, they may later disintegrate because of materials in the flood water.
For more information, read "Procedures for Salvage of Water-Damaged Library Materials" by the Library of Congress. Check with your local library for a copy.
Or call your County Extension Service for further recommendations. You'll find their 800 number in the telephone book under University of Maine Extension Service.
For More Information
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Keep complete records of losses and flood-related expenses even if you don't have insurance coverage. These are helpful in applying for State or federal aid that may become available and for allowable income tax deductions. Most flood losses are deductible for income tax purposes.
Include records on the following:
Photographs of ruined homes or objects are excellent evidence for later documentation. After completing your list of losses, have two or three of your neighbors sign the list as witnesses. Make sure they inspect all damaged material, so that they can vouch for the list's accuracy.
Try to document the value of each object lost. Include bills of sale, cancelled checks, charge account records or prior insurance evaluations. If you don't have these, estimate the value, purchase place, and date of purchase. Include this information with your list.
After the clean up, make an inventory of your household and document it with pictures or receipts. Keep it in a safe deposit box or in another safe place away from the area.
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There are potential hazards that need to be considered when entering your home: gas leaks, electrical hazards, structural damage, and unsafe drinking water.
First, open windows and doors to allow foul odors and leaking gas to escape. Then inspect your home.
Gas Leaks:
Use your sense of smell. Do not turn on any light switches; instead, use a flashlight to check damages. Lanterns, torches, electrical sparks, and cigarettes could cause an explosive fire if there is a gas leak. If you find a leak, call the gas company for help.
Electrical Hazards:
Wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes to avoid electrocution. If the house has been flooded, do not turn on any lights or appliances. Do not operate flooded electrical appliances until they have been reconditioned. Call an electrical contractor or repair shop for further information. Turn off the electricity when checking electrical circuits and equipment or when checking a flooded basement. If the circuit breaker is in a flooded basement, the power company will need to turn off the electricity from outside the house. Make sure the circuits are dry before turning on the power.
Structural Damage:
Watch for falling debris and check for possible damage to floors and walls. Knock down any hanging plaster. If you are not sure of the dangers the structural damage presents, call the city building inspector or engineer.
There is a danger of foundation walls collapsing, especially if the basement is flooded. Keep an eye on the foundation walls as the water is removed. This causes a change in pressure and could cause the walls to cave in. To prevent radical changes in pressure, pump about a third of the water out each day. The water pressure needs a chance to equalize. Use a gas sump pump if the electricity has to remain off.
Report broken utility lines to the authorities.
Drinking Water:
Supplies from any source suspected of being affected by flood conditions may be treated by one of the following methods:
Food Safety:
Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.
Record Keeping
Keep records of all flood-related expenses. See sheet on After the Flood: Record Keeping for details.
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In Maine, flooding can occur at any time of the year. However, typically, the greatest threat of flooding occurs in the spring when heavy rains and snowmelt can combine to produce excessive runoff. Ice jams can also produce flooding during the late winter and early spring.
To alert the public of these potentially threatening conditions, the National Weather Service issues flood WATCHES and WARNINGS.
The following are different types of Flood Warnings:
River Flood Warning
Issued specifically for major rivers, these warnings include forecasts of water levels and/or flows at certain points along the river. Widespread heavy rain, possibly coupled with snowmelt, is often responsible for this flooding.
Small River and Stream Flood Warnings
These warnings are issued by county for the smaller rivers and streams. Heavy rainfall, possibly combined with snowmelt, is often responsible for this type of flooding.
Flash Flood Warnings
These warnings are issued by county for rivers and streams when rapid rises in river and stream levels are expected during a short period of time. Heavy, slow moving thunderstorms and dam breaks are often the cause of this type of flooding.
Urban Flood Warnings
Issued for urban areas when local drainage systems are not able to handle the volume of runoff from heavy rain, and possibly snowmelt. In the fall, winter, and spring, leaves or snow may contribute to the flooding by blocking drainage systems.
Coastal Flood Warnings
Issued when the combination of the astronomical tide and the storm surge will result in flooding of coastal areas. Onshore winds associated with large storms contribute to this type of flooding.
Keep appraised of current weather conditions including latest FORECAST and any FLOOD STATEMENTS, WATCHES or WARNINGS for your area.
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Athletes are at great risk for heat related illnesses.
The Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) offers these tips for coaches and athletes.
Coaches should monitor the heat index and take proper precautions to protect their players. Below are sample guidelines for athletic programs.
Refer to the National Weather Service Heat Index for guidance.
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People with mental illness are at high risk for heat-related illness. The Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) explains way, and offers ways we can help.
What We Can Do:
Help our friends remember (and remember ourselves):
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It is important for us to recognize the early signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do about them.
A Message from the Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC)
During normal weather, the body's internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools the body. However, during periods of extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
Serious heat-related illnesses include:
Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. Body temperatures can reach dangerous levels. Warning signs include hot, dry, red skin (no sweating), rapid pulse, high body temperature, headache, loss of alertness, confusion, rapid and shallow breathing, and unconsciousness or coma. Emergency 911 should be called immediately. While waiting for assistance, cool the person rapidly with such methods as moving them to a shady or cooler area, using cool water, ice, fans, and loosening their clothing.
Heat exhaustion typically occurs when people over-exert themselves in high heat and humidity. Symptoms include heavy sweating, fainting, vomiting, cold, pale, and clammy skin, dizziness, headache, nausea and weakness. Move the person to a cool place, have them drink fluids and rest, loosen their clothes, and cool them off with water or wet cloths. Heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heat stroke. So, if symptoms worsen or do not improve, get medical help.
Heat cramps are muscle cramps in the abdominal area or extremities (e.g. arms and legs) that often occur in people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity and as a result their muscles lose salt and moisture. The cramps are often accompanied by heavy sweating and mild nausea. Move the person to a cool place to rest, and apply firm pressure to the cramping muscle. The person can also gently stretch the cramped muscle and hold it for 20 seconds, and then gently massage it. Have the person drink some cool beverages such as water or a sports drink. The person should seek medical attention if there is no improvement or if the person has underlying medical problems.
Sunburn damages the skin and causes the skin to become red, painful, and warm after sun exposure. Medical attention should be sought if the sunburn affects an infant or if there is fever, fluid-filled blisters, or severe pain. Otherwise, the person should avoid sun exposure, apply cold compresses or immerse the burned skin in cool water, apply moisturizing lotion to the burn.
Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot humid weather and is most common in young children. The rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters and is most common in the neck and upper chest and in creases such as in the elbow and groin. Move the person to a cooler place and keep the affected area dry. The person can also use talcum powder to increase comfort.
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People over 65 years of age can be at high risk for heat-related illness. How can you help?
A Message from the Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC)
What We Can Do:
Studies from heat waves show the highest risk factors for death and hospitalization are older age, living alone, lack of access to an air conditioner, and underlying medical conditions.
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What is the risk to children of heat-related illness? What can parents and caregivers do?
A Message from the Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC)
Children can be at high risk from heat because:
What Parents of Infants and Young Children Can Do:
What Coaches/Parents/Teachers Can Do:
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Even though we do not get many days of extreme heat in Maine, we do get some. Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable, yet over the past 30 years more people have died in this country from heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.
It is important to pay attention to weather predictions that call for extended days of high heat and humidity.
Take Protective Measures Before Extreme Heat
To prepare for extreme heat, you should:
During a Heat Emergency
The following are guidelines for what you should do if the weather is extremely hot:
This fact sheet developed in cooperation with the Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC)
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Nearly every household product contains hazardous materials or chemicals. Review these safety tips, and then visit our Examples of Household Chemicals. You may be surprised at what you have in your home that needs safe handling.
Protective measures for buying and storing household products safely:
Take these precautions to prevent and respond to accidents:
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So, you think you don't have any dangerous chemicals in your home? Check this list below, and then visit our Household Chemical Emergency page for safety tips.
Important Phone Numbers:
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A hurricane is a tropical cyclone in which winds reach sustained speeds of 74 miles per hour (category 1) or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center (the "eye"). Hurricanes produce damage and destruction from heavy rainfalls, winds, and flooding.
The three main conditions which favor tropical cyclone development are (1) warm ocean waters, (2) atmospheric moisture, and (3) relatively light winds aloft. While hurricane season lasts from June through November, the peak of the season is from Mid-Augusta through October. Each year, an average of 10 tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico.
In Maine, hurricanes don't happen often but they can be devastating when they do. Recent storms that had impact on Maine are: Carol and Edna in 1954, Donna in 1960, Gloria in 1985, and Bob in 1991.
One of the most common disaster preparation mistakes is that people do not prepare while the sun is shining. When disaster is approaching everyone is after the same resources and they quickly become scarce. Lines are long, traffic is bad, and tempers are short. Start now to put together your disaster supply kit. If you have children, involve them in the game of finding items on your list. Prepare now, it'll take less time.
Some hurricane preparedness considerations:
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Maine has thousands of recreational and working sea-going boats. Hurricanes and coastal storms have immense power, and as a boater you need to take them seriously. Here are some hurricane preparedness and safety tips from the US Coast Guard:
Do not go out to sea in a recreational boat to "ride out" a hurricane.
Never forget that storms move quickly and they are unpredictable. You can always replace a boat; you cannot replace a life.
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If forecasters are beginning to talk about a hurricane or tropical storm possibly affecting Maine, get prepared now. Even though we've given you some approximate times to do things, remember that when hurricanes approach New England, they often speed up rapidly. You don't have as much time as you think!
Three days before:
Two days before:
One day before:
During the Storm:
Immediately after the storm:
If the Power Goes Out:
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During hurricanes and tropical storms, the National Hurricane Center and local National Weather Service Offices across the country share in the responsibility for providing critical weather information to the public.
To do so, the Hurricane Center and local offices closely coordinate on the forecast, in order to provide consistent information to the public. Consequently, the normal zone forecasts may be delayed during these situations.
Like all weather-related threats, the National Weather Service relies on a WATCH and WARNING program to alert the public to the potential dangers from tropical storms and hurricanes.
Once the storm arrives, stay in the safe location until the storm has completely passed. Don't be fooled by the eye of the storm, which can mislead people into thinking that the storm is over. Winds and rain will increase rapidly immediately after the eye passes overhead. Tropical circulations, including hurricanes, are classified based on the following wind criteria:
While the National Hurricane Center issues HURRICANE and TROPICAL STORM WATCHES and WARNINGS for the coast, the local National Weather Service Office is responsible for issuing numerous watches, warnings, and advisories for local hazards associated with or preceeding the storm, both along the coast and inland.
Watches, Warnings and Advisories
While issued seperately, these watches and warnings are generally summarized by each local National Weather Service Office in HURRICANE LOCAL STATEMENTs. In addition, the local office issues a variety of forecasts and information statements during hurricanes or tropical storms.
In addition to tropical storm/hurricane watches and warnings, the National Hurricane Center and Tropical Prediction Center issue numerous other products that can be very useful in tracking and assessing the potential hazards from tropical systems.
Tracking and Assessing
For additional information about hurricanes and hurricane safety, visit the National Hurricane Center's Website.
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Lightning Kills! Play it Safe
Maine has the 8th highest per capita lightning casualties rate in the US.
From 2001-2010, Maine's fatality rate per capita ranked 9th highest in the country. These statistics are rather alarming since Maine and New Hampshire have considerably less lightning than virtually all of the country east of the Rocky Mountains. With all our summer recreation activities, and all the visitors to our great outdoors, sometimes we forget to take basic safety precautions.
Lightning facts…
More lightning facts ...
More about outdoor lightning safety ...
Indoors …
More about indoor lightning safety ...
If someone is struck …
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Have Fun, but Be Safe
Most lightning deaths and injuries in the United States occur during the summer months and during the afternoon hours when both lightning and outdoor activities reach a peak. During the summer, people take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities. To be safe, those who are boating, swimming, fishing, bicycling, golfing, jogging, walking, hiking, camping, working, or just outside in their back yards need to take the appropriate actions in a timely manner when thunderstorms approach.
Being outdoors when thunderstorms are nearby is risky. There is simply no safe place outside any time a thunderstorm is nearby.
In 2010, all lightning fatalities occurred outdoors. More than one quarter of the victims were under or near a tree that was struck by lightning.
In addition, about one quarter of the fatalities involved people in their own or neighboring yards. Water-related fatalities also accounted for almost one quarter of the deaths.
While summer is a good time to complete outside work, it is very important to work in a safe environment. Between 2006 and 2013, 38 people were struck and killed by lightning in the US while at work. About two thirds of those were farmers, ranchers, roofers, law care workers or construction workers, many of which trying to seek shelter when it was too late. Many work activities such as these require extra time to shut down, so it is important to monitor weather conditions so workers can end their activities and get to a safe place.
To minimize your threat of being struck by lightning while outdoors, it is important to know when the lightning threat begins to increase significantly and when the threat is reduced to minimal levels.
In general, the threat begins well before people think it begins, and ends well after people think it ends. Unfortunately, it's this lack of understanding that accounts for many lightning casualties.
No one can completely eliminate the risk of being struck by lightning. But by using some basic rules, you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a lightning casualty.
Organized outdoor activities
Since 2006, sport activities (golf, soccer, running, baseball, football, etc.) contributed to 29 lightning deaths in the Unites States. In many cases, those involved in the activities failed to realize the developing danger.
Make sure in advance that the officials in charge of activities you are involved in have and follow a specific lightning safety plan. Don't be afraid to ask.
For stadiums and larger venues, The National Weather Service has toolkits which provide templates to help design a safety plan. Those tool kits can be found here.
Coaches, umpires, referees, or camp counselors should stop activities early, so that there is sufficient amount of time for the participants and spectators to get to a safe place before the lightning threat becomes significant.
If substantial buildings are not available for shelter, cars and buses may provide the best protection. But be sure the windows are closed and that the occupants avoid contact with any metal in the vehicle.
Don't forget your outside pets
Dog houses are not safe. Dogs which are chained to metal chains or wire runners are particularly vulnerable to a nearby lightning strike.
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The answers to these lightning questions have been provided by the National Weather Service.
How powerful is lightning and how fast does it move?
Lightning is a giant spark of electricity. A typical lightning flash contains about 30,000 amps and 300 million volts. This compares to a standard household current of 15 amps and about 120 volts. Typically, a lightning flash is only 1 to 2 inches wide. The step leader that initiates the lightning flash propagates downward from the cloud at a rate of about 320,000 ft per second or about 220,000 miles per hour. The return stroke (the current that cause the visible flash) moves upward at a speed of about 320,000,000 ft per second or about 220,000,000 miles per hour (about 1/3 the speed of light). In comparison, the sound of thunder travels at about 1100 ft per second or about 750 miles per hour.
How can you tell how far a flash of lightning is away from you?
While you see the visible flash of lightning almost instantaneously, the sound of the thunder travels at a speed of about 1100 feet per second or about 1 mile in 5 seconds. For every 5 seconds between the time you observe the lightning and the time you hear the thunder, the lightning flash is 1 mile away. If it takes 10 seconds between the lightning flash and the thunder, the lightning flash was 2 miles away. For 15 seconds, the flash would be three miles away. Unfortunately, this method only works for the previous flash and does not tell you how close the next lightning strike will be. Generally, if you hear thunder, you are within striking distance for the next flash of lightning. If you are not in a safe place at the time, move to a safe place immediately.
Are there any signs that a lightning strike is imminent?
Sometimes, but not always. In either case, there is little, if any, time to take action to protect yourself. Some of the signs include:
If you see any of these signs, lightning is about to strike you or somewhere very near you. It is extremely important that you plan ahead to avoid this situation. You could be killed at any instant.
Is it safe to talk on a cordless phone during a thunderstorm?
Compared to talking on a corded phone, the cordless phone is much less of a hazard. However, there is a momentary risk of being struck by lightning when the phone is being removed from the cradle. Once out of the cradle, it is safe to use a cordless phone during a thunderstorm, provided, of course, that you are in a safe place.
What are lightning rods and how do they work?
Lightning rods protect a home from a direct lightning strike, but they do not prevent a home from being struck. They are designed to intercept lightning, to provide a conductive path for the harmful electrical discharge to flow, and to disperse the energy safely into the ground. While lightning rods help protect a structure from a direct lightning strike, a complete lightning protection system is needed to help prevent harmful electrical surges and possible fires cause by lightning entering a structure via wires and pipes. Lightning protection systems should be purchased from and installed by a certified lightning protection specialist.
What are the chances that a person will be struck by lightning during his or her lifetime?
Based on documented cases of lightning deaths and injuries, the nationwide odds of being killed or injured by lightning are estimated to be about 1 in 400,000 for each year of your life. Assuming a life span of 80 years, that's lifetime odds of more than 1 in 12,000. Keep in mind, though, that your behavior around thunderstorms will determine your individual odds. If you are aware of all the threats posed by lightning and act accordingly, your chances for being struck by lightning will be considerably lower. On the other hand, if you are not aware of those dangers or don't take the appropriate safety precautions, your odds of being struck by lightning will be higher.
What do I do if someone is struck by lightning?
Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge, are safe to touch, and may need immediate medical attention. Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death for those who die. Some deaths can be prevented with proper first aid. Call 911 and then give first aid. CPR and use of an AED (automatic external defibrillator) may be needed.
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...from the National Weather Service
Did you know ...
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When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors -- but Where?
A house or other substantial building offers the best protection from lightning. In assessing the safety provided by a building, consider what happens if the structure gets struck by lightning, rather than whether the structure will be struck. In fact, on average, lightning causes about 4400 house fires and 1800 other structural fires each year, some of which are deadly. All totaled, lightning causes nearly $1 billion in damages each year.
For a shelter to provide protection from lightning, it must be able to conduct the electrical current from the point of contact to the ground. The mechanisms to do this may be on the outside of the structure, contained within the walls, or may be a combination of the two.
On the outside, lightning can travel along the outer shell of the building or may follow metal gutters and down spouts to the ground. Inside, lightning can follow conductors such as the electrical wiring, plumbing, and telephone lines to the ground.
Most small structures do not protect occupants from lightning. Many small open shelters on athletic fields, golf courses, parks, roadside picnic areas, schoolyards and elsewhere are designed to protect people from rain and sun, but not lightning. A shelter that does not contain plumbing or wiring throughout, or some other mechanism for grounding from the roof to ground is not safe. Small wooden, vinyl, or metal sheds offer no protection from lightning and should be avoided during thunderstorms.
There are three main ways lightning enters homes and buildings:
Regardless of how it enters, once in a structure the lightning can travel through the electrical, phone, plumbing, and radio/television reception systems. Lightning can also travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
In the past, the use of corded phones was the leading cause of indoor lightning injuries in the United States. However, with more and more cordless and cell phones in use, the number of phone injuries has been diminishing.
At the same time, the number of children injured while playing video games that are plugged into a wall or television has been increasing. Lightning can travel long distances in both phone and electrical wires, particularly in rural areas.
Lightning safety inside the home
In general, basements are a safe place to go during thunderstorms. However, there are some things to keep in mind. Avoid contact with concrete walls which may contain metal reinforcing bars. Avoid washers and dryers since they not only have contacts with plumbing and electrical systems, but also contain an electrical path to the outside through the dryer vent.
Avoiding lightning damage
Lightning also causes significant damage to personal property each year. In addition to direct strikes, lightning generates electrical surges that can damage electronic equipment some distance from the actual strike.
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A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity and for which there is no vaccine. Pandemic flu is very different from the seasonal flu that we experience every winter for which there is some level of immunity and vaccines are available.
Flu pandemics occurred in 1918, 1957 and 1968. Health officials are currently concerned about a strain of flu called H1N1 (also called the "swine flu"), that is currently affecting many countries. All countries, including the United States, are taking steps to take good care of sick people, and minimize the spread of the disease.
There are some things you can do to be prepared should a flu pandemic occur:
Prepare in the same way as you would for any disaster. Make sure you have an emergency plan, an emergency kit for your home, and a communications plan for your family.
Add to your disaster supply kit:
To limit the spread of germs and prevent infection:
Be aware of what is going on with regard to pandemic flu.
As in any major disaster, we would need each other.
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This information is courtesy of the MaineCDC and the Maine Department of Marine Resources:
Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), also called "red tide", is a marine biotoxin that is associated with certain types of algae blooms in coastal waters. Bivalve shellfish eat and filter the toxic algae, and the concentrations of the toxin can cause serious illness or death if eaten by humans.
Consumers concerned about obtaining safe shellfish should buy from certified shellfish dealers whose operations undergo rigorous public health screening and auditing.
Symptoms of PSP include tingling of face and neck areas, headaches, nausea, and muscle weakness. In extreme cases, these symptoms can lead to respiratory failure. Symptoms usually occur within two hours of eating contaminated shellfish. Anyone who has eaten shellfish and has these symptoms should seek immediate medical care.
The Maine DMR monitors shellfish beds closely and closes areas to shellfish harvesting if levels of PSP are noted to be high. Because of this well developed testing and closure system, coupled with effective law enforcement, Maine has a long history of successfully preventing consumers from being exposed to shellfish from areas closed because of red tide.
The Department of Marine Resources Public Health Division routinely test shellfish along Maine's entire coast to test for harmful red tide levels. For current closure information, visit the Department of Marine Resources Red Tide Closure page.
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The National Weather Service uses a WATCH and WARNING program to alert the public to potentially threatening weather. In the summertime, watches and warnings are issued for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash floods, and special marine warnings are issued for gusty winds in marine areas.
Basic Definitions of Events
One of the best ways to monitor these conditions is by purchasing an alert-activated NOAA Weather Radio for your home or business.
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The thought of a terrorist attack is disturbing, no matter where it might occur. This, of course, would be particularly true if we have another attack in the United States. Although Maine is not considered a prime target for terrorist activities, State and Federal agencies in Maine have taken steps designed to prevent an attack from occurring, protect our critical infrastructure and respond in the unlikely event an attack should occur here.
Here are some tips to help you should an attack occur in the US:
To read more about how you can learn about terrorism, and report suspicious activity, visit the Maine Information and Analysis Center.
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A "tornado" is described as a violently whirling column of air extending downward and seen as a rapidly rotating, slender, funnel shaped cloud that has a wind velocity of up to 300 miles per hour. At such intense wind speeds, a tornado can destroy everything along its narrow ground path.
Tornadoes and Maine:
The tornadoes experienced in recent history in Maine have been generated by severe summer storms. The southwestern and central sections of the State have been most often affected. Because of Maine's sparse population, there have not been significant amounts of property damage or personal injury. Mobile homes are most vulnerable to substantial damage.
Maine averages one to two tornadoes per year, typically touching down in uninhabited wooded areas. A tornado touched down in Phippsburg on Thanksgiving Day 2005, causing damage to trees and coastal homes and camps. In 2009 and 2010, tornadoes were verified in Aroostook and in Oxford County, Maine.
What to Look For… Environmental Clues:
Tornadoes often occur with very little advance warning. The best way to be prepared is to stay tuned to television and radio for emergency messages from the National Weather Service. NWS messages may give as little as 5-10 minutes warning before a tornado forms. Be alert for:
Some tornadoes appear as a visible funnel extending only partially to the ground. Some are clearly visible while other are obscured by rain or nearby low-hanging clouds
Tornado Safety:
At the earliest warning, go into a below ground area with flashlights and a radio. Remain there until you are informed that tornado danger has passed. Manufactured (mobile) homes are especially vulnerable and mobile home residents are urged to evacuate to the nearest frame home with a basement.
If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Here are some tornado facts and safety tips.
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Hypothermia Prevention Information from the Maine CDC
Stay Warm – Prevent Hypothermia
The Problem of Hypothermia
What You Can Do to Prevent Hypothermia
Symptoms of hypothermia include:
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A message from the MaineCDC:
Wood Burning and Lung Health: Burn it Smart and Healthy
The Problem of Wood Burning and Lung Health
What You Can Do To Improve Air Quality For Breathing While Heating With Wood
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Types of Message
The National Weather Service issues WATCHES, WARNINGS, and ADVISORIES to alert the public to potentially dangerous winter weather events or situations.
If caution is exercised, these situations should not be life threatening.
The exact criteria used to trigger these watches, warnings, and advisories vary throughout the United States. The following criteria are used in Maine. Criteria are the same across the State except where there is a noted difference between our two forecast areas:
Blizzard Warning
Snow and/or blowing snow will combine with strong winds to produce near-zero visibility. Deep drifts and wind chill may accompany these conditions. The exact criteria used for these warnings include the following conditions which will persist for 3 hours or more.
Winter Storm Warning
Ice Storm Warning
Winter Weather Advisory
Ice Storm Advisory
The NWS does not issue warnings or advisories for storms that produce less than 4 inches of snowfall, but these storms can be deceptively dangerous. The majority of deaths linked to snow storms are as a result of traffic accidents, and many of those accidents occur with only small accumulations of snow. Slow down as soon as snow begins to accumulate.
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The Maine Department of Transportation recommends these items for your car as you prepare for winter:
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The best things in life are free...
Like being ready as a family for any emergency. Here are some simple steps to get you started. And they are absolutely free.
Low Cost, High Value
Once you have talked through how you would deal with an emergency as a family, there may be a few things that you don't have on hand, that you want to pick up.
Use our Weekly Reminder Calendar to begin making small purchases that can help out a lot. You're on your way!
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The first step in becoming prepared for an emergency as a family, is to discover what kinds of things could affect you where you live, work and go to school.
This certainly means major disasters such as floods or chemical spills, but could be something that affects just your family, like an unexpected illness, or other event.
Here are some simple steps to get you started with your plan.
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What will you need if you can't get out for three days and don't have electricity? Here are some suggestions:
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Your family may not be together when disaster strikes. During a major disaster local phone systems and cell phone systems may be jammed.
It's possible that during a major emergency, cell phone service may become overloaded as many people try to call family and friends.
In this situation, short text messages sent by cell phone may get through easier, since they take up far less "space" on the cell signal.
If you don't know how to text, ask your children or grandchildren to show you!
As a reminder, Maine state law now forbids text messaging while driving.
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The most important thing you can have in any emergency is good information. Knowing what is happening, or what could happen, allows you to make good decisions for yourself and your family.
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We have more ways to communicate with each other than ever before. But sometimes the information we receive -- or pass on -- just isn't correct.
A message flashed on the Internet can reach thousands of people in seconds. A relative or friend may have forwarded a warning, or a story that sounds true. But unfortunately, the information may simply be an unverified story, or worse, be deliberately and cruelly false.
A partially heard news bulletin on television or radio can be misinterpreted in a time of heightened concern.
It is our responsibility as citizens to be sure of the truthfulness of information before we act on it or pass it on. Always check out information, even if it came from a friend who innocently sent it on to you.
If you are concerned about something you believe you heard on the news
Check the reliability of e-mail or internet information.
Some excellent Internet sites can be helpful in separating real information from hoaxes. We have provided several references below.
To check on the authenticity of computer virus warning messages, visit the website of your anti-virus software provider.
With the advent of the Internet, we all have the power to become "publishers" of information. All the time, but especially during an emergency, we all also have a responsibility to make sure that information we send to others is accurate.
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Mainers should be extremely careful when using a gas-powered generator or similar alternative heating or power sources. Improper operation or placement of such devices can lead to Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning During Power Outages
A Message from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC)
Warning signs of CO poisoning are flu-like symptoms without fever (such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion). CO poisoning can also result in coma and death. CO is an odorless gas emitted when burning most fuels. Improper operation or placement of alternative heating or power sources can result in poisoning when CO gas builds-up in enclosed spaces.
A State study of the CO poisoning epidemic, in the aftermath of the January 1998 ice storm power outages, found that improper placement of a gasoline generator, such as in a basement or garage, could increase the risk of poisoning up to 300-fold. When the power went out for several days after Tropical Storm Irene in August of 2011, carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause of two deaths and four non-fatal poisonings in Maine. In each case, the carbon monoxide came from improper use of generators.
Using a kerosene heater in a room without any doors to other rooms opened, or failing to crack a window, also put people at increased risk for CO poisoning.
To Avoid CO Poisoning During Power Outages:
If You Suspect CO Poisoning
If you or anyone in the home suspect you are being poisoned by carbon monoxide:
The following publications are from the MaineCDC:
(These publications are in Adobe .pdf format)
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The first person to respond to an accident or illness at your home is you. Some simple steps can ensure you are prepared to respond quickly if a family member or neighbor has an accident, or is suddenly taken ill.
Supplies to be included in a First Aid Kit:
Post Important Information:
First aid training, to include CPR, is available through a number of local organizations.
To Register for a Course:
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During an emergency, the time you have to protect or evacuate livestock will be limited. Here are some questions to consider in your advance planning:
Do you know where you could take your livestock?
Identify a safe location to take your livestock. Inform friends and neighbors of your evacuation plans and post detailed instructions in several places in case you are unable to evacuate them yourself.
Make arrangements in advance to have your livestock trailered in an emergency. If you do not have a trailer, have several people on standby to help.
Because of their size and transportation needs, owners of horses need to take additional steps:
Livestock Trailer Safety:
Are all your livestock identified?
Halters should include the animal's name, your name and phone number, and a secondary number. Should you consider a tattoo or ear tags?
If evacuation isn't necessary can you shelter in place?
Be sure you have adequate supplies of food and water. Also consider methods of providing water and food should you be without electricity. Maine livestock owners have lost power for as long as three weeks in recent years.
Hazards to consider and prepare for:
If your home or barn loses electricity, consider the other losses:
To best plan for these hazards:
After a Disaster:
Now that you are prepared, help others in your community.
Get involved in with your County Animal Response Team (CART). CART teams are part of the County Emergency Management Agency. These teams of trained volunteers who provide critical assistance in animal rescue and provide sheltering of both pets and livestock.
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Because of the size and transportation needs of horses, owners need to take special steps to prepare for and respond to emergencies:
In case of barn fire – special considerations for horse owners:
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A barn fire is a frightening event for farmers and livestock, and can become a tragedy. Here are some tips to help in your planning:
Have you done everything to prevent and prepare for barn fires?
In the Event of a Barn Fire:
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You're watching the news. You see a disaster happening and you want to help. You have a skill you think might be useful, or you are willing to do anything at all.
Review these guidelines before you volunteer to work at a disaster site. Following them will help you...and help the disaster survivors.
Become a member of a recognized volunteer organization. You can go to the website for National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters to find an organization that responds to large disasters and fits you. You can affiliate with a national organization by connecting with their local chapters via VolunteerMaine. Most organizations will not accept spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site, so we recommend you join during "blue skies." After joining, let the organization know the skills you have and the skills you want to acquire so they can provide you with the most appropriate training for disaster response and recovery services.
When you arrive at the scene, you will be expected, and trusted as a member of a relief organization.
If you are not pre-affiliated with a relief organization but still want to help after a local disaster, check out VolunteerMaine's disaster page for instructions on registering as a disaster service volunteer and tips for volunteering. You can also check out VolunteerMaine at any time, not just when a disaster happens, to see what opportunities there are to prepare to be part of disaster relief efforts.
If you have trouble navigating the Volunteer Maine website, you can call 2-1-1 Maine (dial 2-1-1, toll free) and they will assist you.
If you arrive at a disaster scene on your own, you are a burden, not a help.
Facilities for feeding, housing, personal hygiene, and health care are usually scarce. Priority will be given to the survivors and volunteers who are part of an organizational team. See Affiliate, above.
Be patient and flexible:
Be prepared to step into any of a variety of roles, depending on the needs. Volunteers expecting to enter a response or relief effort in a certain capacity are often disappointed. Sometimes a volunteer's special talents are not immediately needed.
Know the liability situation.
Check that there is coverage by liability clauses in the insurance structure of the volunteer agency organization with which you affiliate. Volunteers not registered with a disaster response organization are responsible for themselves, and have little legal protection.
Remember that the use of volunteers is a coordinated process.
Volunteers are most useful when they are able to do the right thing at the right time. That is, they are used as part of an organized recovery process. Volunteer agencies coordinate the assignment of people with abilities, skills, and training to special tasks.
Be committed to the response effort.
Response and recovery work is usually dirty, monotonous, mundane, and not glamorous. There is little individual recognition. Be committed to working under such conditions.
Sometimes, the best way to help is to donate cash to the relief effort, rather than to try to offer yourself or your things
The organizations involved in the response and recovery process after a disaster most often need cash to best serve the survivors. Check out other ways you can help here.
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Money and Goods
Most often, the best way you can help others during a disaster is to donate money or goods. Here are some helpful tips to make sure your generosity helps the most. Giving cash is always the best way to help disaster recovery because of its flexibility and ability to boost the local economy's recovery.
If you'd rather donate goods, make sure you are only donating items that have been specifically requested by an organization directly involved in the recovery effort and that you have made contact with someone at that organization who will receive the items from you.
Charitable Organizations
Are you unsure about giving money to a charitable organization? Here are some websites that can help you determine how charitable organizations rank. Most reputable organizations will allow you to designate your donation for a specific disaster or program:
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The effect of a disaster on your family's lives and finances can be as devastating as physical damages to your home. Taking care to protect your financial, insurance and medical records can save you a great deal of stress and heartache after the storm. Consider these simple steps:
Household Inventory
Perform an inventory of your household. Many insurance companies offer a booklet to do this. If yours doesn't, photograph or videotape each room, including closets and storage areas, identifying the items, when they were purchased and their approximate cost. Make a copy of your finished product for storage in a safe deposit box. Update it when major items are added or replaced.
Credit Card Account Numbers, Bank Account Numbers, Other Financial Details
Develop a list of financial information including credit card numbers and the numbers to report lost or stolen cards; bank account numbers and the bank names and locations. Identify stocks and bonds, contracts that have financial implications. Deeds. Make a duplicate copy for your safe deposit box.
Insurance Policies
List the policies and key information for each including homeowners, life, health, vehicle, business policies. Make a duplicate copy for your safe deposit box
Medical Information
Capture important medical information regarding each person. Include physicians' names and phone numbers, medical conditions, food and drug allergies, surgical procedures, immunizations records, prescription medicines by name and dosage, vitamins, herbal supplements and over the counter medicines taken regularly. Add a photocopy of your medical insurance card(s).
Identification Information
Gather identification information for each family member that includes a recent photograph. Include contact information (by name, address and telephone number) for home, work, school, church, and emergency family contacts. Add birth, death, marriage and divorce records and Social Security cards and Passports. Make a copy for your safe deposit box.
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As you make your family plan, consider what emergency situations might require you to evacuate from your home. Preparing ahead will help you if events require you to leave your home.
Remember, if your local officials advise you to evacuate, it is because your life is at risk if you stay. Please obey any evacuation orders.
If you must evacuate your home and have time to prepare:
Before you evacuate your home and if you have time
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The NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) system broadcasts pre-event warnings and post-event information for all types of public hazards such as weather (hurricane, tornado, dam breach, flood), natural (earthquake, forest fires), technological (chemical release, oil spill), and national emergencies (nuclear, biological, chemical). The NOAA Weather Radio system is the most reliable, effective, single source available to the public for comprehensive weather and emergency information.
For a small investment NWR will warn you of approaching severe weather and other fast-breaking emergency situations. Weather Radios, like smoke detectors, alert people even while they're sleeping to possibly hazardous situations.
Broadcast coverage is almost 100% in Maine. Weather Alert Radio are useful travel accessories since they receive constantly updated local weather information that NWR broadcasts around the clock.
There are many manufacturers of Weather Alert Radios, offering a variety of models, features, and prices. All Weather Alert Radios include two basic capabilities: battery back up operation and a "set it and forget it" emergency alert mode. When a warning is issued, the National Weather service broadcasts a special tone that causes all Weather Alert Radios to sound a loud ten-second alert tone. The Weather Radio is then turned on to hear the broadcast. Some of the more expensive models can be set to automatically go to the voice message when an alert is transmitted. There are also models with an alarm out jack that allow the Weather Alert Radio to be tied into some home security systems.
For a slightly higher cost, weather alert radio models are available with Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME). This feature allows the user to limit weather radio alerts to only those that affect a specific area, and to choose which hazards will activate the Weather Radio alert tone. Add-on accessories are available for the deaf or hearing impaired, such as pillow vibrators, bed shakers, and strobe lights.
For about $60.00 a pair, one could have a battery operated models, with belt clips, that have both SAME and Family Radio Service (FRS) capability. FRS allows for two-way voice communication of up to ten miles between all FRS radios that are set to the same channel.
Purchase Considerations:
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If you might need to evacuate, or just weather an emergency in your home, your personal Go-Bag will make sure you have those essentials things you need. Keep these items in your Go Bag, ready for any emergency:
You may also wish to add:
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Like everyone else, you need to be ready to stay at home or to leave quickly, to keep aware of what is going on, and to have prepared so you can stay at home for several days or leave quickly.
In addition to what everyone else should plan for, you should assess what special items you may need to have available and what special assistance you may need to be able to either stay at home or leave it for several days.
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During a power outage, or when one source of fuel such as propane or heating oil is in short supply, we may turn to another way to heat our homes. There are a number of safety considerations when you are using an alternate heat source.
For all homeowners, but especially those using alternate heat sources, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors can save your life. Make sure those detectors are installed and working correctly. Please also read our fact sheet on Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Electric space heaters
Electric space heaters should always be carefully checked before using them, and monitored constantly while they are in use. Even if they came with safety features such as automatic turn-offs, monitor the heater yourself to make sure it is operating safely.
Wood-burning stoves and heaters
Kerosene heaters
Other heat sourcesIf you have another type of alternate heater, such as a pellet stove, be sure to operate it according to the manufacturer's recommendations, and in accordance with all local and state installation requirements. In other words, read the manual.
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En cas d'urgence, vous aurez besoin d'eau pour boire, cuisiner et vous laver. Prévoyez d'avoir à disposition au moins un gallon par personne et par jour.
Ne rationner jamais l'eau. Buvez l'eau dont vous avez besoin aujourd'hui et essayez d'en trouver plus pour demain. Vous pouvez réduire la quantité d'eau dont votre corps a besoin en réduisant le nombre de vos activités et en restant dans un endroit frais.
Pour conserver l'eau
Sources extérieures d'eau en cas d'urgence
Il est toujours préférable d'obtenir de l'eau potable d'une source dont vous connaissez la pureté (ressources publiques d'approvisionnement en eau, eau en bouteille). Cependant, si en cas d'urgence vous avez besoin de vous procurer de l'eau à l'extérieur de votre maison auprès d'une de ses sources, assurez-vous de purifier l'eau avant de la boire. Il est important de purifier une eau dont la qualité est inconnue. De l'eau qui est claire peut être contaminée.
Evitez les eaux dans lesquelles flottent des particules, les eaux qui ont une odeur ou une couleur foncée. N'utilisez l'eau de mer que si vous la distillez d'abord (voir ci-dessous). Ne buvez jamais les eaux d'inondation.
Si vous avez un puits qui a été submergé, l'eau doit être testée et désinfectée une fois le niveau de l'eau redescendu. N'essayez pas de désinfecter un puits qui est encore sous l'eau. Un gallon de javel ménagère est nécessaire pour un puits de six pouces de large et 300 pieds de profondeur. Si vous pensez que votre puits est contaminé, contactez le Maine Drinking Water Program ouvert 24h/24 au 557.4214.
Trois Façons de Purifier L'eau
Vous devez purifier toute eau dont la pureté est incertaine avant de l'utiliser pour boire, cuisiner ou vous laver.
Il y a plusieurs façons de purifier l'eau. Aucune n'est parfaite. Le mélange de plusieurs méthodes est souvent la meilleure solution. Avant de purifier :
Laissez toute particule en suspension retomber au fond ou passez l'eau à travers plusieurs épaisseurs de serviettes en papier ou un linge propre.
Faire bouillir :
Faire bouillir l'eau est la méthode la plus sûre de purification.
Désinfection :
La distillation va éliminer les microbes restants après avoir désinfecté ou fait bouillir l'eau; elle va également éliminer les métaux lourds, les sels et la plupart des autres produits chimiques.
L'eau qui goutte du couvercle dans la tasse est distillée.
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Frozen water pipes aren't life threatening, however frozen or broken water pipes do cause damage to homes each winter. If pipes in the walls aren't properly insulated, they can freeze and rupture. (An 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day, soaking floors, rugs, and furniture.) To prevent the mess and aggravation frozen pipes cause, protect your home or apartment by following the simple steps below.
Before Cold Weather
When It's Cold
If Pipes Freeze
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Faites bouillir l'eau
Si vous pensez que votre eau potable est contaminée, vous devez trouver une façon de vous procurer de l'eau propre pour boire, cuisiner et préparer les aliments. Vous pouvez vous procurer de l'eau chez un voisin dont vous savez que le puits n'est pas contaminé, chez un fournisseur d'eau de votre localité ou acheter de l'eau en bouteille. S'il est difficile de vous approvisionner en eau potable, vous pouvez faire bouillir l'eau de votre puits pendant cinq minutes avant de la consommer.
Si vous avez des questions concernant votre puits ou la qualité de l'eau, veuillez appeler le Drinking Water Program au (207) 287-2070 pendant les heures d'ouverture. Pour les appels urgents après les heures d'ouverture, appelez le (207) 557-4214. Suivez la procédure qui suit pour désinfecter votre puits.
Désinfecter un puits
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Tornadoes, hail, strong winds, flooding...the National Weather Service is responsible for issuing warnings for many types of severe weather. NWS has many tools to help them anticipate and warn for these hazards. However, ground truth reports of actual weather events always have, and always will, depend on reports from human observers.
That is where the National Weather Service POP (Public Observation Program) computer comes in. By calling a toll-free number in Maine, you can be an important link in the weather forecast process.
Remember this phone number! It serves as a link to the Weather Service's most important source of information during severe weather...YOU!
When you call from a touch-tone phone, you will be connected to the POP computer. The computer will then ask you a series of questions. These questions will help identify the type and severity of weather which you are reporting. When your call is completed, the POP computer will alert the NWS staff to the presence of a new report.
Assuming that there are no problems, your report will then be sent out to the world...and may be heard on NOAA Weather Radio, local radio and TV stations, and who knows, maybe even the Weather Channel! It will also be seen on the Internet (see the link to "Real-time Storm Summaries" below).
One important note...the computer will ask you to input your phone number when you make a report. It is very important that the Weather Service has a way to verify the report and call you for additional information if necessary. You will NEVER be called for any purpose other than to verify a report. Also, NWS respects the importance of your privacy. Your phone number and any other personal information will NEVER leave the NWS forecast office.
When should you call?
Call, when it is safe to do so, if you observe any of the following:
Remember, first ensure that you are safe.
So next time the weather is really nasty, don't just talk about the weather, do something about it! Give the National Weather Service a call and let them know what's happening in your area.
Please remember the phone number to report severe weather anywhere in Maine:
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are a trained Skywarn spotter, please use the toll-free number given to you at your training session. The POP is more appropriate for use by the general public.
If you are interested in becoming a trained Skywarn spotter, contact the National Weather Service Forecast Office nearest you. Links to the Gray and Caribou Forecast Offices are listed below. Skywarn spotters receive special training, and agree to provide local weather data to the NWS on a regular basis.
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After an emergency, if you have had to leave your home or your home was damaged in any way, it is important to document all of the costs you have had.
Your first contact should be your insurance agent. Keep complete records of losses and disaster-related expenses. These will help you in filing your claim. If additional aid is available, or if you are not insured, these records will also help you in applying for State or federal aid that may become available and for allowable income tax deductions. Most disaster losses are also deductible for income tax purposes.
Always take pictures of any damages. Photographs of damaged homes or objects are excellent evidence of the impact on your home or possessions.
Include records on the following:
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Even when a traumatic event happens in another part of the country or another part of the world, it may have an impact on all of us.
Of course, if you are in the area where the event has happened, the effects will be even greater. It is also important to understand that people in the health care and human services fields may be affected by common stress reactions. Watch for these reactions in yourself and your family. Then take the time to care of each other.
Common stress reactions can be emotional (feelings), cognitive (thinking process), behavioral (actions) and physical (overall health). Some examples are anxiety, fear, depression, confusion, poor concentration, a change in sleeping or eating patterns, headaches, fatigue, stomach distress, and a decreased resistance to infection. All of these and others are normal responses to abnormal and traumatic events.
Take care of yourself
Take care of your children
The two most common indicators of distress in children are changes in their behavior and behavior regression.
If you feel the need to have additional professional support and counseling, talk with your family physician or a counselor.
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How quickly your company can get back to business after a terrorist attack or hurricane, a fire or flood or pandemic flu depends on emergency planning you do today.
Maine's businesses form the backbone of the state's economy; small businesses alone account for a majority of the economy. If businesses are prepared to survive and recover, the State and our economy are more secure.
As a business owner, ask yourself the following questions:
A commitment to preparing today will help support employees, customers, the community, the local economy and even the country. It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival.
Get started with emergency planning for your business:
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The Maine State Fire Marshal has some tips for camping fire safety. When planning or actually camping remember to:
Finally, remember to put out a campfire when going to sleep or leaving the campsite. To make sure you extinguish the fire cover with dirt or pour water over it.
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Is your school prepared for all emergencies?
Traditionally schools develop a crisis communications plan to respond to internal issues. Not many schools develop an emergency plan detailing specific hazards that may exist locally, nor do they include those individuals that may be responsible with in the community for assisting the school. In many cases, teachers are not aware of the schools emergency plans.
A commitment to preparing today will help support employees, students and your community. It also protects your community's financial investment and gives your school a better chance for survival through any emergency.
How to prepare your school:
MEMA and the Department of Education have developed a library of resources to get you started.
Further questions? Contact your County Emergency Management Agency, or reach out to us at MEMA.
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Is your school prepared for all emergencies?
Here are some resources to get started:
In addition, here are some publications from MEMA, the Maine Department of Education and school administrators:
Other Resources
.PDF files can be read using the free Adobe® Reader, available at
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The Maine State Fire Marshal has tips for summer Barbecue safety. Though we all love a good barbecue we need to be careful. The latest statistics from NFPA reflects that in 2002, gas and charcoal grills caused 900 structure fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $30 million.
When using barbecue grills on decks or patios, be sure to:
With charcoal grills:
With gas grills:
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and have the grill repaired by a professional, if necessary. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that before purchasing a grill or container, that it bares the mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
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Do you have pets or livestock? Being prepared for a a flood, winter storm, forest fire, hurricane, earthquake, hazardous material leak or dam failure notification is the best gift you can give them.
Think about what it would take to get through a disaster.
A plan should be made for all situations.
Evacuation or Shelter?
Plan ahead for possible evacuations
If you need to evacuate
If you need to go to a shelter
"Shelter in Place" (keeping the animals safe on site if the emergency doesn't require evacuation.
Food and water are essential to survival. Always have enough food, water and supplies for at least 72 Hours (three days).
Other items to consider for your livestock or pets are necessary medications. Talk to your veterinarian for advice on this issue and plan accordingly. Medications and medical records should be stored in a weather proof container.
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This table of frozen food safety shows how to determine if food is safe to eat after a power outage that affects your freezer.
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This table helps you determine when to save refrigerated food, and when to throw it out after a power outage that affects your refrigerator.
Discard any perishable food that has been above 40 degrees F for two hours or more, and any food that has an unusual odor, color or texture. If food has been kept above 40° F for more than 2 hours, use this chart to decide when you need to throw something out.
This information is courtesy of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. Visit them online at: http://www.extension.umaine.edu/
Retail Foodservice establishments are directed to visit the Health Inspection Program website for emergency guidance: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/environmental-health/el/
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Sooner or later, every family faces a food emergency. It may be a flood, hurricane, tornado—or something less devastating, such as a power outage or the freezer discovered with its door open.
Natural disasters can create food safety and supply problems that require food safety know-how.
Here are some recommendations:
For more information about food safety during a power outage or disaster, call the USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This information courtesy of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension:
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Lyme Disease is a tick-borne illness caused by a bacterium. Lyme disease is spread by the bite of a deer tick that already has the germ.
For the medical facts about Lyme Disease, we refer you to the MaineCDC's online library of information at:
According to the MaineCDC, limiting exposure to ticks reduces the likelihood of any tick-born disease infection, including Lyme Disease. In persons exposed to tick-infested habitats, prompt careful inspection and removal of crawling or attached ticks is an important method of preventing disease. It may take several hours of attachment before microorganisms are transmitted from the tick to the host, so preventing ticks from attaching and removing any ticks promptly are important safety steps.
Important tips for Lyme Disease prevention:
Please visit the MaineCDC Lyme Disease Resource Center for medical information, and more information on prevention.
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Excerpted from the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control.
I heard about "toxic molds" that grow in homes and other buildings. Should I be concerned about a serious health risk to me and my family?
Certain molds can produce toxins. There is always a little mold everywhere - in the air and on many surfaces. There are very few reports that molds found inside homes can cause unique or rare health conditions such as breathing concerns or memory loss. These case reports are rare. A common-sense approach should be used for any mold contamination existing inside buildings and homes. The common health concerns from molds include hay fever-like allergic symptoms. Certain individuals with chronic respiratory disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma) may experience difficulty breathing. Individuals with immune suppression may be at increased risk for infection from molds. If you or your family members have these conditions, a qualified medical clinician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment. For the most part, one should take routine measures to prevent mold growth in the home.
How common is mold, in buildings?
Molds are very common in buildings and homes and will grow anywhere indoors where there is moisture. The most common indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria.
How do molds get in the indoor environment and how do they grow?
Mold spores occur in the indoor and outdoor environments. Mold spores may enter your house from the outside through open doorways, windows, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with outdoor air intakes. Mold spores in the air outside also attach themselves to people, animals, clothing, shoes, bags, and pets that may carry mold indoors.
When mold spores drop on places where there is a lot of moisture, such as where leakage may have occurred in roofs, pipes, walls, plant pots, or where there has been flooding, they will grow. Many building materials encourage mold to grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products, are particularly conducive for the growth of some molds. Other materials such as dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery, commonly support mold growth.
Is it important to know what kind of mold I have?
NO - It is not necessary to determine what type of mold you may have. All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.
Are there any times where people should leave a home or other building because of mold?
These decisions have to be made individually. If you believe you are ill because of exposure to mold in a building, you should consult your physician to determine the appropriate action to take.
Who are the people who are most at risk for health problems associated with exposure to mold?
People with allergies may be more sensitive to molds. People with immune suppression or underlying lung disease are more susceptible to fungal infections.
How do you know if you have a mold problem.
Large amounts of mold can usually be seen or smelled.
What are the possible health effects of mold in buildings and homes?
Mold exposure does not always present a health problem indoors; however, some people are sensitive to molds. These people may experience symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, sneezing, or skin irritation when exposed to molds. Some people may have more severe reactions to molds. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath. People with weakened immune systems and chronic lung diseases are at increased risk and may develop fungal infections in their lungs.
How do you get the mold out of buildings, including homes, schools, and places of employment?
Mold growth can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water.
How do you keep mold out of buildings and homes?
As part of routine building maintenance, buildings should be inspected for evidence of water damage and visible mold. The conditions causing mold (such as water leaks, condensation, infiltration, or flooding) should be corrected to prevent mold from growing.
Mold Prevention Tips
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Custom configurations
Many custom configurations are available, including drive configurations, expansion cards, etc.
If you don't see the configuration you're looking for, use your Custom System form so we can configure your perfect machine.
Customer testimonial
Warranty and support
All systems come with our standard 9x5 one year cross-ship return to depot warranty. Upgraded warranty options including multiple years, 24x7, and on-site service are available. Read more information about our warranties.
Lifetime technical support is included with every Advanced Clustering system. This includes support via, email, or our toll-free support telephone line.


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CITS is proud to announce that one of our employees, Ryan Misura, has been presented with the Desire2EXCEL Student Award for his work on a web application that provides a quicker way for staff to create personal discussion areas for their classes.
CITS, through the heroic efforts of Jane Jiumaleh & Ryan Misura, brought a new website online for the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center on May 15th, 2014, and they are still working on the Mobile Version. The purpose of the project was not only to give the SBDC website a makeover, but to also bring it into the Central IT Drupal Environment.
To read more about the new website, click here.
To check out the Wisconsin SBDC's new website, go to www.wisconsinsbdc.org.
The Office 365 conversion is moving ahead of schedule. We are hearing good feedback from people and encountering very few problems.
We have completed CITS, ICS/ECC, DEED, CEOEL, BAMI, the Pyle Center and most of Lake Street. In April, we will work on converting the Cooperative Extension county offices and then move on to the UW Colleges campuses in May and June. People will be notified well in advance before their offices are upgraded.