Aroostook County EMA Blog

Roof Collapse and Snow Removal Safety Information

Homeowners and businesses should be aware of the dangers posed by heavy snow on roofs, and the warning signs of structural weaknesses. In many instances, roof collapse and other risks posed by accumulated snow can be reduced by removing snow from roofs. Flat and low-pitched roofs — mostly found on industrial buildings but also used in certain home designs — are at the greatest risk of buckling under heavy snow and ice accumulations. The combination of ice and height makes...

Safe Snow Shoveling!

When the driveway and walkways are coated in a thick blanket of snow, it’s time to get a shovel out for what some consider to be a dreaded chore. But before you tackle the snow, take some time to read these safety snow shoveling tips to help avoid any potential injuries. Snow shoveling can lead to several health risks for many people, from back injuries to heart attacks. The mix of cold temperatures and physical exertion increases the workload on...

HEATING ASSISTANCE FOR AROOSTOOK COUNTY RESIDENTS

Did you know if you are on a fixed income, you may be eligible for heating assistance this season? It can take a few weeks for the application to process, so now is the time to connect with your local Community Action Program (CAP) and find out if you qualify! For a complete list of all CAPs, as well as other heating and energy assistance resources, visit www.maine.gov/mpuc/consumer-assistance/programs . Did you know if you are a renter, and heat is...

Traversing icy walkways, sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots can be very dangerous and we have lots of ice during the winter months in Aroostook County.

The National Safety Council estimates that falls cause more than 1,500 deaths and 300,000 injuries per year. Here are some ice safety tips to share with your loved ones. 1. Plan to give yourself extra time for walking, do not assume a clear path. 2. Wear shoes or boots that provide traction. Wear flat-soled shoes and avoid shoes with heels. Footwear made of rubber provides better traction than plastic and leather soles. You can also purchase ice cleats or crampons...

Winter Power Outages: What to do before, during and after.

Most winter power failures happen when storms bring freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow and high winds, damaging power lines and equipment. Without a steady supply of heat, not only are you impacted, but your home can suffer from damage as well. Plan before Winter arrives: Put together an emergency survival kit and an evacuation plan. Stock your pantry with non-perishable food and bottled water. Don’t forget your pet’s food. Take time for some pre-winter home maintenance. If someone in your home relies on...

FAMILY SAFETY PLAN

A home safety plan is an essential tool for keeping your family safe, as it establishes what to do in case of an emergency. All families should prepare for fire safety, natural disasters, power outages, extreme heat and cold. Families should have a plan to take care of any contingency. First you should Identify two safe meeting areas in your home! Choose the two safest spots in your house: One as your primary meeting spot, and the other as your backup....

Food safety tips for packing lunch box:

Before beginning any food preparation, always wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds and dry with a disposable paper towel or clean hand cloth. Clean food contact surfaces (e.g., countertop, cutting boards, utensils, etc.) often, between tasks, and if they become contaminated. Wash food contact surfaces with hot, soapy water and either air dry or use a clean cloth, or disposable paper towel to dry. Sanitizers can be used for added protection. Clean lunch boxes often...

Dental Emergency!

Accidents happen and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Here are some tips for common dental emergencies: For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a tooth preservation product that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Then, get...

Personal Security in Troubling Times

We are aware of the heightened level of stress that world events such as what is going on in Ukraine can bring to each of us.  We’ve been asked, “What can we do to prepare?”  While we all know that you can’t prepare for everything, taking small steps in personal preparedness can be empowering and lower stress.  Here are some things that you can do and that you can share with others: Increase your cyber-awareness.  This includes taking steps that...

JOIN THE MAINE MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS (MRC) TODAY!

Are you a retired medical worker or someone who has time that would like to help during a disaster? Signing up for this program does NOT commit you, it simply puts you in a database that would get you information when there is a need.  You decide if you are available or not when it happens.  See below for more information: Looking to volunteer? Then, your invited you to join Maine Responds and the Maine Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) today!...

Maine Basic Emergency Manager Training Program

Anyone wanting to learn more about Emergency Management or Local EMA Directors that want to excel should check into this recognition program. Feel free to reach out to us with suggestions. The Maine County Directors Council has updated their Maine Basic Emergency Manager 1 & 2 program. This is a great way for people to learn about Emergency Management and a good start for Local Emergency Managers. Get more information on the program at: https://www.maine.gov/mema/maine-prepares/plans-trainings-exercises/training/basic-emergency-training-program?fbclid=IwAR21UjXO9kMBplsQj7c9Uo36iXJOXPIpR5nX2WWSIHRNnkDMz6c2NOVMYxQ

FLU VACCINE: Is it time for one?

Now’s the time to get your flu shot. The flu shot is covered for people with Medicare from providers that accept Medicare or your Medicare plan. You can safely get a flu vaccine at your doctor’s office, pharmacy, or other local provider.  The flu can be very serious for people who are 65 years and older. A flu shot is your best protection from getting and spreading the virus. Getting the shot can help you stay healthy and, if you do...