All-Hazards Preparedness Guide
2013
Contents
Be Prepared ...............................................................................................................3
Prepare Your Pet…………………………………………………………………………………4
Hurricanes………………………………………………………………………………………5
Thunderstorms/Lightning……………………………………………………………………….9
Tornadoes……………………………………………………………………………………..10
Extreme Temperatures………………………………………………………………………….11
Wildland Fires…………………………………………………………………………………12
Floods…………………………………………………………………………………………13
Hazardous Materials……………………………………………………………………………15
Pandemics/Season Flu………………………………………………………………………….16
Terrorism……………………………………………………………………………………...17
Contact Information……………………………………………………………………………18
Mission Statement..…………………………………………………………………………….19
2
Be prepared!
The next time a disaster strikes, you may not have much time to act. Let us help you prepare now for any type of
sudden emergency. We are committed to protecting the life and property of Nassau County residents in all hazards.
Be prepared to assess the situation and plan what you will do. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the
emergency, the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You should understand and plan for both
possibilities. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is
happening and what you should do. Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the internet for instructions. If you’re specifically told to evacuate, shelter-in-place or seek medical treatment, do so immediately.
Create a Checklist and Disaster Kit
Create an Emergency Plan and discuss evacuation routes and emergency meeting places.
Stock your disaster kit with items to prepare for at least three days.
Water: store one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation in clean plastic containers. More
may be necessary with the warmer weather.
Food: store food that won’t go bad and does not have to be heated or cooked. Choose foods that your family will
eat, including protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, canned foods and juices, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts,
crackers and baby foods. Remember to pack a manual can opener, cups and eating utensils.
A change of clothing, rain gear, sturdy shoes, and blankets or sleeping bags
Flashlight (extra batteries)
Battery powered or hand-cranked radio plus a NOAA weather radio with tone alert
First Aid Kit
Local and Evacuation maps
Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, soap and other sanitation
supplies
Carry credit cards and cash and a list of important family information.
Prescription drugs (two-week supply) and copies of prescriptions
Store your information, such as passports, driver’s licenses, insurance and social security cards, birth and marriage
certificates, and other vital records in water-proof bags.
3
Prepare your pet
Prepare and Plan
Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, particularly food and
water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should
be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away. Be sure to review your kits
regularly to ensure their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.
Food—keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
Water—store at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your
family.
Medicines and medical records—Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof
container.
First aid kit—Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs. Most
kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex
gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book.
Collar with ID tag, harness and leash—Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times.
Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet’s emergency supply kit. Place copies of your pet’s registration
information, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container. You should also consider talking with your veterinarian about permanent identification such as microchipping,
and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.
Crate or other pet carrier—If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation, take your pets and animals with you
provided that it is practical to do so. In many cases, your ability to do so will be aided by having a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pet.
Sanitation—Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household
chlorine bleach to provide for your pets sanitation needs. You can use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water
to one part bleach), or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid
bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches, or those with added cleaners.
A picture of you and your pet together.
Familiar items—put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit.
Pet-friendly shelter information
There are two pet-friendly shelter locations.
The following animals will be allowed:
Dogs
Cats
Rodents (such as hamsters, gerbils, etc.)
Rabbits
Birds
NO REPTILES WILL BE ALLOWED IN THE SHELTERS
All pets must have proof of vaccination and Nassau County license, be properly crated or caged and be maintained by their
owners. Animals may be housed in a separate room from their owners, but pet owners must remain in the co-located
general population shelter.
4
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are violent storms which bring intense winds, heavy rain, storm surge, floods, coastal erosion, landslides, and
tornadoes. While it is difficult to predict the exact time, place, and force of hurricanes, residents of the Atlantic and Gulf
Coast states must be prepared. The season for hurricanes is June 1 through November 30, with most hurricanes occurring
mid-August to late October.
2013 Hurricane Names
Andrea
Barry
Chantal
Dorian
Erin
Fernand
Gabrielle
Humberto
Ingrid
Jerry
Karen
Lorenzo
Melissa
Nestor
Generator Safety
Olga
Pablo
Rebekah
Sebastien
Tanya
Van
Wendy
Generators are useful when temporary or remote
electric power is needed; however, they can be dangerous. Hazards that are potential with generators
are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic
engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and
fire.
Never use a generator indoors (homes, garages,
basements, sheds, etc.) even if the windows and
doors are open.
Do not refuel a generator while it is running.
Follow the instructions that come with your
generator.
You cannot see or smell carbon monoxide. If
you feel dizzy, sick, or weak while using a
generator, get to fresh air right away.
Don’t connect your generator directly into your
home. This electrical system creates backfeed,
which is dangerous to utility workers.
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
Category 1: 74-95 mph (Minimal)
Category 2: 96-110 mph (Moderate)
Category 3: 111-129 mph (Extensive)
Category 4: 130-156 mph (Extreme)
Category 5: 157+ mph (Catastrophic)
Category 3 and above are considered major hurricanes.
As the storm approaches:
Remember that Hurricane Watch means the onset of hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours; a Hurricane
Warning means the onset of hurricane conditions are likely
within 24 hours.
Have a full tank of gas in a vehicle, cash, and your disaster
supplies kit ready to go.
Make sure every family member carries or wears identification.
Listen to the radio or television and NOAA Weather Radio
for current information and be prepared to act quickly.
Turn refrigerator and freezer to maximum cold and keep
closed.
Secure your boat or move it to a safer mooring.
Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water for
bathing, flushing toilets, and cleaning, but do not drink this
water.
Secure or bring inside outdoor items such as patio furniture,
kids’ slides, and power mowers.
Turn off propane tanks. Shut off other utilities if
emergency officials advise you to do so.
5
Hurricanes
Develop a Hurricane Plan
Step 1: Family Meeting
Create a list with the family to encourage ideas about what
needs to be done before an upcoming hurricane season.
Also, talk about ways of staying safe.
Step 6: Secure your home
Decide what actions to take to protect your home and
property, such as tree-trimming and clearing rain gutters
and downspouts; installing permanent wooden or metal
storm shutters or board up windows; install metal straps of
hurricane clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame
structure.
Step 2: Evacuating
Since shelters only provide for basic needs, they should be
used as a last resort. Ideas of places to go include a family
member’s or friend’s house, or hotel outside of the evacuation area. Make sure to determine if you are located in an Step 7: Special Needs
Determine if anyone in your family has special medical
evacuation zone. If you choose to evacuate, do so in adneeds. If so, take necessary action in advance to
vance.
accommodate those needs.
Step 3: Protect your assets
Step 8: Protect your pets
Video record or take pictures of items that are valuable.
Determine your pets’ needs and make a plan in case you
Review your insurance policies and make sure you have
need to evacuate. Be sure to plan for larger outside
adequate coverage. Once a hurricane watch is used
animals, too, such as horses, pigs, and cows.
insurers will not grant new or additional coverage.
Step 4: Know if your home is vulnerable
Perform a walk-through of your home and property.
Evaluate your roof, windows, garage, etc. Determine the
actions you will take.
Step 5: Protect your vehicles
Decide where you’ll store your vehicle, boat or RV.
Check your vehicle insurance policy and keep it safe with
your homeowner’s policy.
Step 9: Gather supplies
Assemble a hurricane disaster kit according to your family’s
food, water, and medical needs.
Step 10: Notify others about your plan
Let family or friends know about your hurricane plan so
they can check on you after the storm. Establish an out-oftown contact.
Traffic Safety
When traffic signals are not working, intersections should be treated as four-way stops. To prevent chaos, please wait
your turn.
6
Hurricanes
(Category 1)
(Category 2)
(Category 3)
(Category 4)
(Category 5)
7
Hurricanes
Shelters
Nassau County Emergency Management has emergency shelters in place that are open to anyone who needs a safe place
to stay during a disaster. Shelters may be crowded and uncomfortable with no privacy and there is no guarantee of
electricity. However, the special needs shelter does have a generator to maintain the necessary electrical needs of the
clients.
Those evacuating to a shelter should bring their disaster survival kits with them as well as the following items:
All required medications in labeled bottles and any necessary medical instructions, including prescriptions (enough
for two months).
All required medical support equipment, including: wheelchair or walker, oxygen, dressings, feeding equipment,
diapers, etc.
Name, phone number of physician/home health agency/hospital where you receive care.
Sleeping gear—pillows, blankets, air mattress or folding chair
Blanket or sweater
Important papers such as insurance documents, doctor’s orders, etc.
Photo identification and proof of current address.
Bring cash—credit card services may not be available for several days after the storm. Be aware there will be no
secure place to keep money or valuables.
Comfort items—personal hygiene items, small games, cards, coloring books, crayons, etc.
Extra clothing.
Eat a meal or prepare a snack prior to leaving home and bring a supply of bottled water. Although food will be
available, it may take several hours to prepare.
If you are on a special diet, bring required food items with you.
Listen to local news media reports for a complete list of shelter opening and times. Remember, although shelters are
available to the community, they are designed as a last resort and not all shelters will be open during an event.
Special Needs
Shelter Locations
The Special Needs Program is designed to provide
transportation for those who qualify during evacuations
for hurricanes, wildfires or floods.
Bryceville Elementary School
Callahan Intermediate School
Callahan Middle School**
Hilliard Elementary School
Hilliard Middle School*
Yulee Elementary School**
Yulee High School
Yulee Middle School
If you are an individual with a special medical need,
Nassau County has a Special Needs Registry which
maintains the resident’s registry and arranges for
transportation and shelter.
To register, please call 904-548-4980 or visit:
http://www.nassaucountyfl.com/eoc and click on
People With Special Needs to download the form. This
is an annual registration so please make sure to register
annually!
*Special Needs Shelter
**Pet Friendly Shelter
8
6504 Church Ave.
34586 Ballpark Road
450121 Old Dixie Hwy.
27568 Ohio Street
One Flashes Ave.
86063 Felmor Road
85375 Miner Road
85439 Miner Road
Thunderstorms/lightning
Thunderstorms form when moisture combines with rapidly
rising warm air and a force capable of lifting air such as a warm
or cold front, or a sea breeze. Due to Florida’s geography, sea
breezes from both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean
converge over the Florida Peninsula to form thunderstorms.
The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an
average of thirty minutes.
Florida has more thunderstorms and lightning strikes each year
than anywhere else in the United States. Florida also leads the
nation in deaths and injuries from lightning, averaging 10 deaths
and 30 injuries each year. Although all thunderstorms are
dangerous, produce lightning, and can be lethal, about 10
percent produce dangerous winds or hail that will likely exceed
thresholds known to cause bodily harm or significant damage to
well-built structures. These are known as severe
thunderstorms. Severe thunderstorms produce hail the size of a
dime or larger and/or winds of 58 miles per hour or greater.
Stay Safe
If outdoors during/before a thunderstorm, get
inside.
Do not take a shower or bath. Avoid
swimming. Lightning energy can be
transmitted through water to you.
Do not handle any electrical equipment or
corded telephones because lightning could
follow the wire.
If you are located inside a car, stay inside and
turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy
rain subsides.
Turn on your weather radio and keep it close at
hand to receive further information.
Lightning is an electrical discharge that results from the buildup
of positive and negative charges within a thunderstorm.
Lightning does, in fact, strike several times in the same place.
The Empire State Building and the Willis Tower (formerly
Sears Tower) get hit thousands of times a year, as do mountain
tops and radio-television antennas.
What’s the difference between a weather watch and a weather warning?
The basic difference between a watch and a warning is the immediacy of weather conditions.
A weather watch is used when the risk of hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its
occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their
plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case
a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings, especially when planning travel or
outdoor activities.
A weather warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent or likely. A warning
means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action.
Nassau County is a StormReady Community, which means it is better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe
weather through advanced planning, education and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help
communities save lives.
9
tornadoes
A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground or can be a spin-off of a
hurricane. The most violent tornadoes are capable of tremendous destruction with wind speeds of 250 mph or more.
Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported
nationwide. Many tornadoes never touch ground or do not affect populated areas, although they can cause significant
property damage in a short-time.
Florida’s deadliest tornadoes usually occur in spring. Florida is among the top 10 states prone to devastation from
tornadoes. Although the Midwest has a reputation for the worst tornadoes, Florida is the state which experiences the
most number of tornadoes per square mile.
Enhanced Fujita Scale
Look for the following danger signs:
Dark, often greenish sky
Large hail
A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
Loud roar, similar to a freight train
If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be
prepared to take shelter immediately
EFO (Gale): 65-68 mph
EF1 (Weak): 86-110 mph
EF2 (Strong): 111-135 mph
EF3 (Severe): 136-165 mph
EF4 (Devastating): 166-200 mph
EF5 (Incredible): Over 200 mph
During a tornado
If you are in a tornado WARNING, seek shelter immediately!
If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado
may be approaching your area.
If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a dry ditch or low-lying area.
If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above).
Preparing a Safe Room
The purpose of a safe room or a wind shelter is to provide a space where you and your family can seek refuge that provides a high level of protection. You can build a safe room in one of several places in your home, including your
basement, atop a concrete slab-on-grade foundation or garage floor, or in an interior room on the first floor.
To protect its occupants, a safe room must be built to withstand high winds and flying debris, even if the rest of the
residence is severely damaged or destroyed.
The safe room must be adequately anchored to resist overturning and uplift.
The walls, ceiling, and door of the shelter must withstand wind pressure and resist penetration by windborne objects
and falling debris.
Below-ground safe rooms must be designated to avoid accumulating water during the heavy rains that often
accompany severe windstorms.
The connections between all parts of the safe room must be strong enough to resist the wind.
Sections of either interior or exterior residence walls that are used as walls of the safe room must be separated from
the structure of the residence so that damage to the residence will not cause damage to the safe room.
10
Extreme temperatures
Droughts are slow-building disasters. Although we do know that droughts can occur, there are no distinct starting or
ending points. It is uncertain when or where they will occur or for how long they will last. Droughts occur when long
periods pass without substantial rainfall. We start to see effects of drought, such as withering crops, plummeting water
levels, and parched fields.
Nassau County has suffered periods of extended drought. Sectors most vulnerable to drought include agricultural and
fishing/recreation industries. Drought increases the wildland fire danger and chance of sinkholes for the entire county.
Long-term concerns include reduced potable water for domestic use through lowering of the water table in the area’s
aquifers. In Florida, groundwater is the source of drinking water for 90 percent of the population, and the state has been
impacted by drought on a repeated basis over the last century.
During droughts, you should consider conserving water and reusing it. Lowering the amount of water you use will help in
conserving.
During summer months, May through September, Nassau County can experience conditions of extreme heat and high
humidity. Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. There are three different types of heat emergencies:
heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat cramps are caused by a loss of salt through heavy sweating, heat
exhaustion is caused by dehydration, which can progress to heat stroke, the most severe of the three. Heat stroke can
cause shock, brain damage, organ failure and even death.
Before going out into the heat, take these precautions
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
Rest frequently, and find shade when possible.
Avoid exercise during hot or humid weather.
Drink plenty of water every day. Drink more fluids before, during, and after physical activity.
Be especially careful if you are overweight or elderly, or if you are taking any prescription drugs that impair heat
regulation.
11
Wildland fires
There are three types of wildland fires. Surface fires are the most common and burn along the forest floor. Ground fires
are usually ignited by lightning and burn along or below the forest floor. Crown fires spread by wind, and move along
the tops of trees. Wildland fires are usually signaled by dense smoke that fills the area for miles around.
Fires can be ignited by various phenomena, such as lightning, burning without a permit, and arson.
Florida’s typical fire season lasts January through May. The most at risk portions of the county are the urban interface
and rural areas. Fires can also cause significant losses and destruction for timber interests in Nassau County.
Wildland fire safety recommendations
Remain calm in a case of fire. Drop to the floor and crawl. Most fatalities are due to breathing fumes and smoke.
Feel doors before opening. If they are hot, do not open.
Never go back into a burning building.
Never try to fight the fire.
If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll. Keep rolling; running from the fire only makes it worse.
Make sure your home has working smoke detectors in several areas. Test them monthly, and replace batteries once
a year.
Check for fire hazards around home. Trim trees and shrubs that surround the house and be sure the yard is free of
dead moss and wood.
Never overload circuits or extension cords.
Immediately turn off appliances that overheat, sputter, spark, or emit an unusual smell.
Teach your children about the dangers of fire.
Make fire extinguishers available.
12
floods
Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community. Flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a
few minutes or without any visible signs of rain.
According to the National Hurricane Center, inland flooding has been responsible for half the deaths associated with
tropical cyclones in the last 30 years. Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a
low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.
Prepare your Home Before the Flood
Avoid building in a floodplain. If you are in a floodplain, elevate and reinforce your home.
Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
Install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
Construct barriers (levees, berms, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering the building.
Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
Plan ahead for the protection of pets and livestock.
During a Flood
Listen to the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, radio or television for information.
Remember that a Flood Watch means flooding is possible; Flash Flood Watch means flash flooding is possible. Be
prepared to move to higher ground.
Flood Warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Flash
Flood Warning means a flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
Do not wait for instructions to move.
Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch
electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water,
walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
After a Flood
Listen for news reports to learn whether the water supply is safe to drink.
Avoid floodwaters; it may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged
from underground or downed power lines.
Avoid moving water.
Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of
a car.
Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to your utility company immediately.
Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
Use extreme caution when entering houses and buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are
serious health hazards.
Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.
Discard canned, bottled, or sealed-in-plastic food items that have been dented or dislodged and knocked into things.
13
floods
Driving Flood Facts
Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if
you can do so safely.
Almost half of all flash flood fatalities occur in vehicles.
Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
A foot of water will float many vehicles.
Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-up trucks.
If you come upon a barricaded road or flooded road, don’t drive around them; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Flood Insurance
For many people, their home and its contents represent their greatest investment. Property losses due to flooding
are not covered under most standard homeowners’ insurance policies. You can protect your home and its contents
with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The NFIP is a federal program established by Congress in 1968 which enables property owners to buy flood
insurance at reasonable rates in participating communities. In return, participating communities carry out flood
management measures designed to protect life and property from future flooding.
To find out more about flood insurance for your property and its contents, contact your insurance agent. There is
usually a 30 day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect.
Flood Safety Measures
Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods.
Currents can be deceptive; six inches of water can knock you off your feet. If you have to walk in water, walk where
the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road
barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two flood killer after drowning is electrocution.
Electric current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your Utility company.
Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch
electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
14
Hazardous materials
Hazardous materials are chemical substances that, if released or misused, can pose a threat to environment or health.
They come in various forms, such as explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons, and radioactive
materials.
These forms of hazardous materials are most commonly released by transportation accidents or chemical accidents in
plants. However, many products containing hazardous chemicals are routinely used and stored in homes.
Hazardous materials are common in Nassau County because industry, business, government and private citizens use them
on a daily basis. If a material, either alone or in combination with other substances, has the potential to damage humans,
then it can be considered hazardous. Accidents at fixed facilities could threaten the health and safety of workers and the
population and property of the surrounding community.
In Nassau County, hazardous materials can be found in fixed facilities as well as being transported on the highway, through
pipeline, and by railroad.
Hazardous materials can even be found within your own home. Items include nail polish remover, paint, ammonia from
cleaning products, and insecticide products.
Hazardous Materials Safety
Read labels and keep hazardous materials away from children.
Never mix chemicals.
Prepare to “Shelter in Place.”
Stay indoors when chemicals are released and close all windows and doors. Turn off ventilation systems. Go to your
“safe room.”
Seal gaps under doorways and windows with wet towels and duct tape. If gas or vapors enter, take shallow breaths
through a cloth or towel.
If it’s serious or if the victim is having trouble breathing, call 911!
If someone has been exposed to a chemical, call your local physician or the Florida Poison Information Network at
(800) 222-1222.
15
Pandemic/seasonal flu
A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges to which people have
little to no immunity and for which there is no vaccine.
Examples:
Avian (bird) flu –H5N1—caused influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds.
Swine (pig) flue –H1N1—H1N1 was given the name “swine flu” due to the fact that many of the genes were similar to
influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. However, upon further study, it has been revealed that
H1N1 is very different—it has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asian and avian
genes and human genes.
Plan for a pandemic
Store a two-week supply of water and food.
Have a two-week supply of prescription drugs.
Be sure to stock up on non-prescription drugs, such as cough and cold medicines and vitamins.
For water, boil for one minute, or add bleach as directed on label; if unknown, use 10 drops per quart.
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness.
It can cause mild to severe illness, and can even lead to
death.
Symptoms may include:
Fever (usually high)
Headache
Extreme tiredness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches
Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and
diarrhea (more common in children)
Three tips to help prevent flu
Get a flu vaccination
Take everyday preventative actions
Wash your hands
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you
cough or sneeze
3. Take antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them
Antiviral drugs are medicines (pills, liquid or inhaler) that fight
against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your
body.
Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap
and water as well as cover their coughs and sneezes with tissues.
More information can be found at:
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/chd/nassau
16
Terrorism
Terrorism is the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation of the criminal laws of the United States
for purpose of intimidation, coercion or ransom.
Acts of terrorism include threats of terrorism; assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, bomb scares, bombings, and cyber
attacks (computer-based); and the use of chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological weapons.
Domestic and International
Domestic terrorism includes groups or individuals living in the U.S. whose terrorist activities are directed at elements of
their own government or population without foreign direction.
International terrorism is foreign-based and/or directed by countries or groups outside the U.S.
Terrorist acts are intended to
Cause mass casualties
Produce a loss of critical resources
Disrupt vital services and the economy
What are the likely targets of a terrorist attack?
Public assembly areas
Public and government buildings
Mass transit
Places of high economic impact
Telecommunications facilities
Historic or symbolic places
Amusement parks
Special events
Large structures and bridges
Don’t avoid these places; however, be more aware of your surroundings if you visit them.
What can I do to stay safe?
Alert local authorities about anything that appears suspicious or out of the ordinary. Most Law Enforcement, Public
Safety and Public Health Officials have plans and procedures for responding to all types of hazardous situations.
Prepare your family for possible terrorist attacks by creating a Disaster Kit as well as picking a safe room in your home
with as few doors and windows as possible.
If an explosion occurs in a building, leave as soon as possible! Use fire escapes and help others with physical disabilities out
of the building. Do not take the elevator!
If you travel alone or with family to a foreign country, check out: http://travel.state.gov/ for any travel advisories or
procedure changes. Keep identification papers secure at all times, and report anything suspicious to the proper
authorities.
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Contact information
Contact information
9-1-1 For Emergencies Only
Nassau County Emergency Management:
904-548-4980
Nassau County Health Department:
904-548-1800
Nassau County Animal Services:
904-491-7440
Nassau County Sheriff’s Office:
904-225-0331
Nassau County Fire Rescue:
904-491-7525
Fernandina Beach Fire Rescue:
904-277-7331
Fernandina Beach Police Department:
904-277-7342
American Red Cross:
904-358-8091
Baptist Medical Center Nassau:
904-321-3500
Nassau County Emergency Management Website:
http://www.nassaucountyfl.com/eoc
Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/NassauEM
Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/NassauEM
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Nassau County Emergency Management’s
Mission Statement:
The Mission of Nassau County Emergency Management is to protect and preserve the lives and property of the
citizens of Nassau County from a disaster. The Nassau County Emergency Management Agency works in
cooperation with local government and emergency service providers. This mission is accomplished through
preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation efforts.
Nassau County Emergency Management
77150 Citizens Circle
Yulee, Florida 32097
Fax: 904-548-9335
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