It's back to school today for most kids in Cumberland County! Catching the school bus, meeting new teachers and buying school supplies are on every one's minds, but what about school safety? Did you know that Cumberland County has a Safe School's Association?
The Cumberland County Safe Schools Association is a conglomeration of school district officials, emergency services personnel and county officials that work collectively towards a common goal of maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students in Cumberland County. This group meets regularly and provides training throughout the year for school officials to meet their goal.
So as the children in our area head back to the classroom today, take comfort knowing that Cumberland County DPS, Cumberland County school districts and your local emergency services are working hard to keep your kids safe! We hope everybody has a safe and fun filled first day back to school!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
The Anatomy of An Outage
Power outages are an inconvenience whether they last 5 minutes or several days! When these outages occur, it is easy to become frustrated with your utility company and feel like they are restoring power to everyone but you! We would like to take the time to help you better understand the restoration process and the method behind the madness.
The first priority for power companies is to restore power to critical facilities such as hospitals, and public safety facilities (fire stations, police departments, 9-1-1 centers). Next they focus on the major lines and substations that serve the largest number of customers. They want to get the largest number of customers back in service as quickly as possible. Next they focus on smaller neighborhoods, businesses and private homes. This "plan of attack" is utilized industry wide during large outages.
When power companies are able to plan ahead for an outage, such as those suspected to occur with the arrival of Irene, they often deploy workers from other states to help with the work load and speed the restoration process. Per PPL's Twitter page, they deployed 150 employees from Kentucky to PA in anticipation of the outages!
We assure you that your power companies are working diligently to restore power to your area. With outages in nearly 1/3 of the state, it will likely take some time and patience is key! We remain in contact with our local power companies and will keep you posted as we know more!
Tips for an outage...
1. Never run a generator in your home, basement, or other indoor space where exhaust fumes may accumulate.
2. Stay clear of downed power lines.
3. Stay clear of electrical equipment where there is standing water, such as a flooded basement.
4. Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home.
5. Turn off electric ovens, ranges or space heaters that may have been in use when the outage occurred.
6. Unplug sensitive home electronics that can suffer damage when power is restored.
7. Avoid candles and use flashlights instead. Candles can cause a fire if tipped by animals or people, or if they come in contact with a combustible item.
8. Keep warm air in during winter by using doors as infrequently as possible. This includes closing your garage door while you shovel snow.
9. Close off unoccupied rooms.
10. Keep your refrigerator or freezer closed as much as possible.
11. Remain calm and stick together.
The first priority for power companies is to restore power to critical facilities such as hospitals, and public safety facilities (fire stations, police departments, 9-1-1 centers). Next they focus on the major lines and substations that serve the largest number of customers. They want to get the largest number of customers back in service as quickly as possible. Next they focus on smaller neighborhoods, businesses and private homes. This "plan of attack" is utilized industry wide during large outages.
When power companies are able to plan ahead for an outage, such as those suspected to occur with the arrival of Irene, they often deploy workers from other states to help with the work load and speed the restoration process. Per PPL's Twitter page, they deployed 150 employees from Kentucky to PA in anticipation of the outages!
We assure you that your power companies are working diligently to restore power to your area. With outages in nearly 1/3 of the state, it will likely take some time and patience is key! We remain in contact with our local power companies and will keep you posted as we know more!
Tips for an outage...
1. Never run a generator in your home, basement, or other indoor space where exhaust fumes may accumulate.
2. Stay clear of downed power lines.
3. Stay clear of electrical equipment where there is standing water, such as a flooded basement.
4. Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home.
5. Turn off electric ovens, ranges or space heaters that may have been in use when the outage occurred.
6. Unplug sensitive home electronics that can suffer damage when power is restored.
7. Avoid candles and use flashlights instead. Candles can cause a fire if tipped by animals or people, or if they come in contact with a combustible item.
8. Keep warm air in during winter by using doors as infrequently as possible. This includes closing your garage door while you shovel snow.
9. Close off unoccupied rooms.
10. Keep your refrigerator or freezer closed as much as possible.
11. Remain calm and stick together.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Important Numbers
Consider keeping important contact information with your emergency supply kit. After a disaster you may need to contact your utility company, insurance company, local municipal office or repair company. Having all of these numbers in your hands immediately after a disaster can make clean up and recovery a lot easier for all parties involved.
As hurricane Irene approaches this weekend, the potential for rain and strong winds exists! Power outages are not unlikely and should be planned for! Below you will find a list of local power companies that serve our area and phone numbers that our residents can call to report their outages!
First Energy (MetEd, Penelec)
1-888-544-4877
Adams Electric Cooperative
1-800-726-2424
PPL
1-800-342-5775
As hurricane Irene approaches this weekend, the potential for rain and strong winds exists! Power outages are not unlikely and should be planned for! Below you will find a list of local power companies that serve our area and phone numbers that our residents can call to report their outages!
First Energy (MetEd, Penelec)
1-888-544-4877
Adams Electric Cooperative
1-800-726-2424
PPL
1-800-342-5775
Preparing for Irene
As Irene is about to make landfall on the United States, there is still a lot of uncertainty as to how the storm will affect us here in Cumberland County. We could see heavy rain, flooding and wind, or we may just experience a few showers. With this uncertainty looming, it’s time to prepare and be ready for the worst case scenario!
Are you wondering how to prepare for this storm? The first step is creating an emergency supply kit, if you don’t already have one. A few basics to get you through the stormy weekend would include a 3 day supply of non-perishable foods and water, flash lights with extra batteries, a battery operated radio, first aid kit and any important medications you may need. If you get all of these supplies and end up not using them, at least you’re prepared for next time! For a more detailed listing of emergency supply kit items check out this link http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html.
Now let’s talk flooding! It is imperative that you understand all of the flood watches and warnings that may come your way! Understanding what they mean will let you know how to react!
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information
Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
While on the topic of flooding, if you must travel in flood conditions, remember the useful saying of “turn around, don’t drown”. In a nut shell, even a few inches of water can be forceful and deadly! Do not attempt to travel through it!
Prior to the rain make sure storm drains are cleared of debris and clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Make sure sump pumps are working properly and if your basement is prone to water move items from the floors to shelves or upper floors.
We’ll keep you posted with forecasts and safety information as we get it!
Are you wondering how to prepare for this storm? The first step is creating an emergency supply kit, if you don’t already have one. A few basics to get you through the stormy weekend would include a 3 day supply of non-perishable foods and water, flash lights with extra batteries, a battery operated radio, first aid kit and any important medications you may need. If you get all of these supplies and end up not using them, at least you’re prepared for next time! For a more detailed listing of emergency supply kit items check out this link http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html.
Now let’s talk flooding! It is imperative that you understand all of the flood watches and warnings that may come your way! Understanding what they mean will let you know how to react!
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information
Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
While on the topic of flooding, if you must travel in flood conditions, remember the useful saying of “turn around, don’t drown”. In a nut shell, even a few inches of water can be forceful and deadly! Do not attempt to travel through it!
Prior to the rain make sure storm drains are cleared of debris and clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Make sure sump pumps are working properly and if your basement is prone to water move items from the floors to shelves or upper floors.
We’ll keep you posted with forecasts and safety information as we get it!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Cumberland County Preparedness Month
Cumberland County Commissioners have proclaimed September 2011 to be Preparedness Month in the County. The following proclamation was issued today!
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
September 2011
WHEREAS, National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to better prepare their homes and communities for emergencies;
WHEREAS, a multitude of potential emergencies and disasters such as flooding, winter weather, fires, electrical outages, or acts of terrorism may result in extensive damage to roads, streets, bridges, private homes, and businesses, and may cause other adverse impacts upon the general population of Cumberland County;
WHEREAS, the Commissioners of Cumberland County and the Department of Public Safety along with other Federal, State, County, and local emergency management officials participate in and support a month-long National Preparedness Month designed to raise awareness and the need for preparedness at home and work;
WHEREAS, in recognition of the need to adequately prepare, call upon the people of Cumberland County to recognize the importance of preparing for potential emergencies and observe this month by participating in preparedness events, activities, and programs at home and in the workplace;
NOW THEREFORE, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim September 2011 as PREPAREDNESS MONTH IN CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
Presented this 22nd day of August 2011
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
September 2011
WHEREAS, National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to better prepare their homes and communities for emergencies;
WHEREAS, a multitude of potential emergencies and disasters such as flooding, winter weather, fires, electrical outages, or acts of terrorism may result in extensive damage to roads, streets, bridges, private homes, and businesses, and may cause other adverse impacts upon the general population of Cumberland County;
WHEREAS, the Commissioners of Cumberland County and the Department of Public Safety along with other Federal, State, County, and local emergency management officials participate in and support a month-long National Preparedness Month designed to raise awareness and the need for preparedness at home and work;
WHEREAS, in recognition of the need to adequately prepare, call upon the people of Cumberland County to recognize the importance of preparing for potential emergencies and observe this month by participating in preparedness events, activities, and programs at home and in the workplace;
NOW THEREFORE, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim September 2011 as PREPAREDNESS MONTH IN CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA.
Presented this 22nd day of August 2011
Hurricane Irene 8-22-11
By Megan Silverstrim
Hurricane Irene is churning in the Atlantic and looks to be heading for the east coast. While it is still too early to tell, Irene could potentially bring lots of rain and wind to our area early next week! While hurricanes may not be a threat you think of when living so close inland, hurricanes have caused significant damage to our state! Since 1869, 16 significant storms have hit Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s worst national disaster to date was in fact a hurricane! Hurricane Agnes ravaged the state in 1972, causing $2.1 billion in damage and leaving 220,000 Pennsylvania residents homeless!
With Irene’s potential, it’s a great time to update your plan and do an inventory of the supplies in your emergency kit! Don’t have a kit? Check out this site to learn what you should get to ready your kit! http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
To learn more about hurricane preparedness check out this site…
http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/hurricanes.html
For all things Irene check out…
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at4+shtml/085712.shtml?hwind120#contents
Will keep you updated as we know more regarding this storm!
Hurricane Irene is churning in the Atlantic and looks to be heading for the east coast. While it is still too early to tell, Irene could potentially bring lots of rain and wind to our area early next week! While hurricanes may not be a threat you think of when living so close inland, hurricanes have caused significant damage to our state! Since 1869, 16 significant storms have hit Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s worst national disaster to date was in fact a hurricane! Hurricane Agnes ravaged the state in 1972, causing $2.1 billion in damage and leaving 220,000 Pennsylvania residents homeless!
With Irene’s potential, it’s a great time to update your plan and do an inventory of the supplies in your emergency kit! Don’t have a kit? Check out this site to learn what you should get to ready your kit! http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
To learn more about hurricane preparedness check out this site…
http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/hurricanes.html
For all things Irene check out…
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at4+shtml/085712.shtml?hwind120#contents
Will keep you updated as we know more regarding this storm!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Back to School
Many households are focused on back to school shopping, meeting new teachers and the return of homework, but most fail to focus on school safety! August is Back to School Safety Month! While school safety is important all year, the start of school is a great time to refresh your mind.
Every school district has safety/emergency plans. Don't be afraid to ask teachers or school administrators about these plans. Make your self familiar with what is expected of you as a parent in the event of an emergency, and remind your kids of what actions they are to take!
An astounding 23 million children nationwide travel to and from school on a bus! Whether you have a child on a bus or you encounter school buses during your daily travels, it is very important to familiarize yourself with bus safety! Check out this link for tips for students, parents and drivers!
http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/buses/kidsschoolbus_en.html
For additional back to school information visit the links below!
http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Back_to_School.shtml
http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-spotlight/back-to-school-safety/
Every school district has safety/emergency plans. Don't be afraid to ask teachers or school administrators about these plans. Make your self familiar with what is expected of you as a parent in the event of an emergency, and remind your kids of what actions they are to take!
An astounding 23 million children nationwide travel to and from school on a bus! Whether you have a child on a bus or you encounter school buses during your daily travels, it is very important to familiarize yourself with bus safety! Check out this link for tips for students, parents and drivers!
http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/buses/kidsschoolbus_en.html
For additional back to school information visit the links below!
http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Back_to_School.shtml
http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-spotlight/back-to-school-safety/
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Safe Schools Workshop Held
August 15, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Safe Schools Association Conducts Workshop At Bellaire Elementary
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania- On August 9, the Cumberland County Safe Schools Association in conjunction with the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety held a school violence workshop at the Bellaire Elementary School. This workshop was offered to all school district employees in Cumberland County with 96 attending.
This workshop, unique to this area, placed participants in classrooms as an active shooter situation was simulated. While the workshop helped participants understand the actions they should take in an active shooter situation, the true purpose of the event was to help them understand the emotions and reactions they will have during and after an event. Workshop planners simulated the sounds, sights and smells of an actual event in hopes of better preparing teachers and administrators. After the simulation, mental health experts were on hand to discuss some of the emotions participants felt and offered information how they could assist fellow teachers and children after such an event.
The Cumberland County Safe Schools Association is a conglomeration of school district officials, emergency services personnel and county officials that work collectively towards a common goal of maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students in Cumberland County. This group meets regularly and provides training throughout the year for school officials to meet their goal.
# # # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Safe Schools Association Conducts Workshop At Bellaire Elementary
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania- On August 9, the Cumberland County Safe Schools Association in conjunction with the Cumberland County Department of Public Safety held a school violence workshop at the Bellaire Elementary School. This workshop was offered to all school district employees in Cumberland County with 96 attending.
This workshop, unique to this area, placed participants in classrooms as an active shooter situation was simulated. While the workshop helped participants understand the actions they should take in an active shooter situation, the true purpose of the event was to help them understand the emotions and reactions they will have during and after an event. Workshop planners simulated the sounds, sights and smells of an actual event in hopes of better preparing teachers and administrators. After the simulation, mental health experts were on hand to discuss some of the emotions participants felt and offered information how they could assist fellow teachers and children after such an event.
The Cumberland County Safe Schools Association is a conglomeration of school district officials, emergency services personnel and county officials that work collectively towards a common goal of maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students in Cumberland County. This group meets regularly and provides training throughout the year for school officials to meet their goal.
# # # #
Monday, August 15, 2011
Welcome
Welcome to the new Cumberland County DPS blog! The purpose of this blog is to create an open dialog with the citizens we serve! We will use this site as a way to highlight DPS accomplishments, discuss preparedness tips, current trends and topics in home and business preparedness and to communicate with you before, during and after a disaster! We encourage you to leave comments, questions and some of your very own emergency preparedness tips and success stories!
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