Final signed version of Multiple Patient Incident Plan available

The final signed version of the Gallatin County Multiple Patient Incident Plan (redacted) is now available on ReadyGallatin.com.  This plan is an update to the original MPI Plan written in the 1990's and involved representatives from mulitple agencies working to update it.  The MPI Plan outlines the framework that Gallatin County emergency response agencies work under during an incident that has multiple patients and the potential to overload the normal medical system.  The redacted version is available in our plan section.

Spring Run Off Safety

With spring upon us, and the mountain snowpack quickly melting, the possibility of flooding is always present.  While there is presently no flooding, flooding can quickly occur and become an issue.  Residents are encouraged to treat any situation with swift moving water, or flooding, with caution and follow these safety tips:

• Do Not Walk Through Flowing Water
• Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Most occur during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where the water is not flowing.
• Do Not Drive Through a Flooded Area
• Most 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
• Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager.
• Turn Off Your Electricity When You Return Home
• Some appliances, such as television sets, can shock you even after they have been unplugged. Don't use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried.
• Watch for Animals, Especially Snakes
• Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn items over and scare away small animals.
• Look Before You Step
• After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
• Be Alert for Gas Leaks
• Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.
• Carbon Monoxide Exhaust Kills
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Fumes from charcoal are especially deadly -- cook with charcoal only outdoors.
• Clean Everything That Get Wet
• Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Spoiled food and flooded cosmetics and medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.
• Take Good Care of Yourself
• Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit. And the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time. Learn how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.

 If residents observe clogged ditches or culverts they are encourged to let their local public works agency know of the situation.

Additional information is available on flooding and river levels at ReadyGallatin.com.

Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan review in Bozeman

The State of Montana is in the process of updating and revising the State's Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan. Each state is required to have a FEMA approved plan that addresses the State's risks, assessment of its hazards, and mitigation strategies. This plan must be in place in order for the state, or local jurisdictions, to be eligible for a variety of federal programs. These programs include:

• Public Assistance
• Fire Management Assistance Grants
• Hazard Mitigation Grants
• Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants
• Flood Mitigation Grants

 As part of the State's revision process, a public meeting will be held in Bozmean on April 26th, 2010 from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at the Bozeman Public Library. This meeting is open to everyone to learn about the State's Pre Disaster Mitigation Plan, or provide feedback to the State.

 

Information on the project, and contact information, is available at http://mt-hmpupdate.com/.