Southwest Utah Health Podcast

BE INFORMED: HAZARDS IN SOUTHWEST UTAH

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

BE INFORMED: HAZARDS IN SOUTHWEST UTAH by Mike Gale, Emergency Preparedness Division Director

Narrated by Mike Gale using AI-assisted voice.

Living in picturesque and geologically diverse Southwest Utah comes with both benefits and challenges. The area is susceptible to various natural and human-made hazards that can disrupt daily life and pose significant risks to residents.

Taking personal responsibility for understanding and preparing for these emergencies is crucial.

By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can reduce the impact of these threats on yourself and your community.

Here are some of the key hazards that everyone in Southwest Utah should be aware of:

WILDFIRES

Southwest Utah's dry climate coupled with its desert vegetation creates ideal conditions for wildfires. The region’s hot, dry summers, combined with strong winds, can quickly transform a small spark into a raging inferno. Wildfires can spread with alarming speed, consuming wildlands and threatening developed areas; endangering lives, property, and the environment. To protect yourself and your home, you should create defensible space by clearing flammable materials from around your property. Having an evacuation plan in place and staying informed about fire weather conditions can greatly enhance your safety during wildfire season.

EARTHQUAKES

Southwest Utah's position along several significant fault lines, including the Hurricane, Washington, and Sevier/Toroweap Faults, makes the region vulnerable to earthquakes. These seismic events can range from minor tremors to major quakes capable of causing significant damage. The sudden release of energy from these faults can violently shake the ground, leading to building damage or collapses, especially in structures not built or retrofitted to seismic standards. Earthquakes in this region can also severely disrupt infrastructure that we take for granted, including communications, power, water, and transportation.

Preparedness is essential. Residents should ensure their homes are structurally sound and secure heavy furniture and appliances to prevent them from toppling during a quake. Knowing how to turn off utilities like gas and water can also prevent secondary hazards, such as fires or flooding, in the aftermath of an earthquake.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical need for preparedness in the face of widespread health emergencies. Future epidemics or outbreaks of other infectious diseases are likely, with the potential to overwhelm healthcare systems and disrupt daily life. Moreover, disease outbreaks often follow natural disasters, since damaged infrastructure can compromise sanitation, water supplies, and healthcare services, creating ideal conditions for the spread of waterborne and communicable diseases. In such scenarios, even minor injuries or illnesses can become serious health risks without proper medical care.

To protect yourself and your community, maintaining good hygiene practices is essential. This includes regular handwashing, proper food handling, staying home when sick, keeping essential supplies at home, and staying up to date with vaccinations. Staying informed about public health guidance during an outbreak is equally important, as recommendations can change rapidly in response to new information.

SEVERE WEATHER & CLIMATE CHANGE

Southwest Utah is no stranger to severe weather events, including powerful thunderstorms, high winds, and winter storms. These weather phenomena can inflict considerable damage, disrupt daily life, and lead to extended power outages. The effects of climate change can intensify these threats, including prolonged droughts, extreme heat waves, and an increased likelihood of violent storms.

Staying informed is key. Monitoring weather updates with a reliable weather radio, securing outdoor items to prevent wind damage, and identifying the safest place in your home to take shelter during a storm are good safety measures.

EXTREME HEAT

Summers in Southwest Utah are characterized by extreme heat, with temperatures frequently soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed.

The effects of extreme heat extend beyond personal discomfort; they can also exacerbate chronic health issues, strain power grids due to increased demand for air conditioning, and create challenging conditions for outdoor workers. The risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses increases during prolonged heat waves, making it crucial to stay vigilant.

To mitigate these risks, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses. Recognizing symptoms like excessive sweating, dizziness, confusion, and nausea can be critical in preventing serious injury. Additionally, seeking out air-conditioned environments and checking on vulnerable neighbors can help reduce the toll of extreme heat on the community.

POWER OUTAGES

Power outages in Southwest Utah can occur due to a variety of factors, including severe weather, accidents, or even preemptive safety measures during wildfire season. It is advisable for all households to be prepared with a plan and supplies in case of a prolonged power outage. Have a back-up for those who rely on electricity-dependent medical devices, which could involve having a generator or making arrangements with medical providers for alternative power sources.

You can stay informed and get updates during a power outage by accessing your power company’s website on a mobile device or signing up for your county’s emergency alert system. Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from power surges when the electricity is restored. For those using portable generators, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards.

DROUGHT

Prolonged drought is a persistent challenge in Southwest Utah, with far-reaching impacts on water supply, agriculture, and the environment. The region frequently faces drought conditions, which strain water resources and necessitate strict water usage restrictions. These dry periods not only threaten the availability of water for personal and agricultural use but also raise the risk of wildfires due to parched landscapes.

The consequences of drought extend beyond immediate water shortages. Prolonged dry spells can lead to reduced crop yields, affecting local agriculture and food supply chains. They also stress ecosystems, leading to loss of vegetation, increased soil erosion, and negative effects on wildlife habitats.

FLOODING

Flash floods have caused many deaths in Southwest Utah, particularly in areas with slot canyons, dry washes, and other low-lying areas. These events occur when heavy rainfall rapidly overwhelms the dry, often rocky terrain, leading to sudden and dangerous surges of water and debris. The speed and force of flash floods can endanger lives, destroy property, and alter landscapes in a matter of minutes.

The risk of flash flooding is heightened by the region's unique topography, where steep canyons and narrow valleys can channel water into concentrated areas, increasing its velocity and destructiveness. Even a short period of intense rainfall can result in significant flooding, turning a calm wash into a raging torrent.

Staying safe during flash flood season requires vigilance and awareness. Monitoring weather forecasts and paying attention to flash flood warnings are critical steps in ensuring safety. These alerts can provide valuable time to move to higher ground or avoid flood-prone areas. Understanding the signs of an impending flash flood, such as sudden heavy rain or the sound of rushing water, can also help in taking prompt action to protect yourself and your property.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENTS

Southwest Utah is traversed by major highways and railways used for transporting hazardous materials. Accidents involving these materials can result in spills, fires, or explosions, posing significant health and environmental risks. Be aware of evacuation routes and shelter-in-place procedures in case of an emergency.

SUPPLY SHORTAGES

Disruptions to supply chains—whether caused by natural disasters, pandemics, or other unforeseen events—can lead to significant shortages of critical items like food, medicine, and other essential goods, directly impacting public well-being. The great toilet paper shortage of 2020 serves as a stark reminder of how quickly everyday necessities can become scarce, especially when people panic. To mitigate the impact of such shortages, it’s wise to keep a well-stocked supply of non-perishable food, water, sanitation items, and other essentials at home. Being prepared not only ensures your household's resilience but also reduces the strain on the community's resources during times of crisis.

CONCLUSION

Living in Southwest Utah offers many benefits, but it's essential to be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to prepare for them. By understanding these risks and having a plan in place, residents can help ensure their safety and resilience in the face of emergencies.

STAY INFORMED, STAY SAFE: EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

STAY INFORMED, STAY SAFE: EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS by Mike Gale, Emergency Preparedness Division Director

Narrated by Mike Gale using AI-assisted voice.

As emergencies unfold, having good situational awareness can keep you and your family safe. The situation can change rapidly, and information can be limited or hard to find at first. When faced with unexpected situations, people will naturally try to seek and confirm information - even if danger is obvious - before taking action, a phenomenon called “milling”. This delay can put lives at risk.

Emergency Managers, Public Information Officers, and 911 centers work to gather and send out timely and accurate information as soon as possible in the form of emergency notifications, with the goal of getting people to take appropriate protective actions.

TYPES OF EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS

Public safety officials can send notifications and alerts through various systems at federal, state, and local levels. Ways to receive them include phone calls, text messages, social media, app notifications, emails, websites, radio, television, freeway signs, and intercom systems. Here are some types of alerts you should be familiar with:

• County Emergency Alerts: Each county in Southwest Utah has its own Emergency Alert System, but you have to sign up to receive it. These alerts provide vital information and instructions about local events such as public safety incidents, evacuations, shelter-in-place orders, missing persons, hazardous materials incidents, wildfires, and flooding. Visit s w u health.gov/prepare, scroll down to “Alerts,” and select your county to sign up! Add and label the alert number in your contacts so you’ll recognize it if you’re being notified.

• School Alerts: Systems for events and drills at school districts and universities.

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Alerts: These alerts for severe weather conditions can be received through weather apps, websites (alerts.weather.gov), & N OA A radio network stations.

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): WEAs are emergency text messages sent to mobile devices in a targeted area to inform the public of critical situations. WEAs include Amber Alerts about missing children, National Alerts issued by the President of the United States or FEMA, Imminent Threat Alerts involving threats to safety or life, and Public Safety Messages that give recommendations for saving lives and property

• FEMA Alerts: Uses the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to send local alerts through cell phones, NOAA weather radios, sirens, and billboards. You can also download FEMA’s mobile app to receive emergency alerts, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area, and get preparedness resources.

• Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) Alerts: Displayed on overhead freeway signs, providing traffic condition information. UDOT also has a smartphone app that can provide alerts while traveling in the state.

• Event-Specific Alerts: Notifications for sporting events, concerts, and other large gatherings.

• Specialized Alerts: For earthquakes, volcanoes, space weather, cardiac arrests, and public health issues. Requires signing up through the relevant agency such as the USGS, National Space Weather Prediction Center, etc.

opt-out versus opt-in EMERGENCY ALERTS

People often assume they will receive all emergency alerts because they automatically get Amber Alerts. However, many notification systems require you to sign up. Ensure you are signed up to receive alerts from your county, workplace, and school.

You can choose what types of alerts you want to receive in each system, and remember to keep your contact information updated.

RECEIVING INFORMATION FROM NEWS MEDIA

News media outlets are a critical source of information during emergencies, providing live updates, detailed coverage, and expert analysis of ongoing situations.

• Tune into trusted outlets: including local TV and radio stations.

• Monitor multiple sources: Compare information to ensure accuracy and get a comprehensive view of the situation.

• Stay updated online: Many news organizations offer live streaming and real-time updates on their websites and social media channels.

• Use emergency radios: Battery-powered or hand-crank radios are essential for staying informed during power outages.

SOCIAL MEDIA PITFALLS - Anyone can reach large numbers of people through social media. Posts can share credible information but can also contain inaccurate or false news. Use caution when getting information from social media platforms and check for reputable sources.

MAINTAIN GOOD SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

Don’t just wait for an emergency to take action; make sure you’re signed up for the right alerts for you and your family and follow your emergency plans to stay informed and safe!

12 AREAS OF PREPAREDNESS

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

12 AREAS OF PREPAREDNESS from BeReadyUtah.gov

Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice.

1. SHELTER, CLOTHING, & FIRE

Warmth and protection from the elements are crucial, so have weather-appropriate clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, and tents on hand, whether you need to shelter indoors or outdoors. Fire is vital for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help. You’ll need fire-starting tools like matches, lighters, and firewood, along with knowledge of fire safety.

2. WATER

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and sanitation, with a minimum two-week supply. You can use bottled water, water barrels, and purification methods, such as water filters, purification tablets, and boiling. For longer-term emergencies, being able to locate and purify water can be life-saving (see page 23).

3. FOOD

Non-perishable foods such as canned goods, dried foods, and emergency ration bars are ideal. Ensure that your food supply covers at least two weeks and includes items that are easy to prepare with minimal water and no refrigeration. Consider special dietary needs and rotate your stockpile regularly to keep it fresh (see page 22).

4. HYGIENE & SANITATION - Your emergency kit should include basic sanitation supplies such as soap, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products, and diapers for those who need them. Proper waste disposal is also important, especially if normal sewage systems are unavailable. Keep heavy-duty garbage bags, a portable toilet, and disinfectants like bleach to ensure cleanliness. Personal hygiene items, like toothbrushes and toothpaste, are also essential for health and comfort.

5. LIGHT & POWER

Store alternative sources of light and power, including flashlights and lanterns with extra batteries, generators, or solar chargers. Use candles with caution, due to fire risk. Solar-powered or crank chargers can help keep essential devices like cell phones operational.

6. FIRST AID

Your kit should include bandages, gauze, scissors, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you or family members may need. Get trained in basic first aid, including CPR and how to stop bleeding, and include a first aid manual to guide you through medical emergencies if professional help is not immediately available (see page 24).

7. COMMUNICATION

You can access emergency alerts through an AM/FM radio, weather radio, or similar device (that runs on batteries, solar power, and/or handcrank). Family communication plans are vital; make sure to designate a point of contact (who lives out of the affected area) that all family members know how to reach. Have a list of emergency contacts and keep your cell phone and other communication devices charged up, along with backup power sources (see page 14).

8. SAFETY & SECURITY

Home security measures can include locks, alarm systems, knowing how to secure windows and doors, and having the means to protect yourself if necessary. Be aware of your surroundings and understand local threats. Community safety plans, such as neighborhood watches or local emergency response teams, can provide added security.

9. TOOLS & PERSONAL ITEMS

Have basic tools like a multi-tool, wrench, and duct tape, which can be used for repairs or turning off utilities. Personal items such as glasses, hearing aids, or mobility aids should also be considered. Don’t forget comfort items like books, toys, or games that can help reduce stress and provide some normalcy during an emergency.

TEN: cooking

Emergency cooking equipment might include a portable camping stove or grill, along with a sufficient supply of fuel. Make sure you also have suitable pots, pans, and utensils. Have a plan for food preparation that doesn’t require cooking, such as ready-to-eat meals.

11. DOCUMENTS & MONEY

Keep copies of vital documents—such as IDs, insurance policies, and medical records— in a waterproof, portable container and have some emergency cash on hand. These measures will help you prove your identity, file insurance claims, and make essential purchases even if digital systems are down.

12. transportation & NAVIGATION

Keep your vehicle in good condition, with the gas tank at least half full and an emergency kit that includes maps and tools for minor repairs. Bicycles are a great alternative if roads are blocked or fuel is unavailable. Be familiar with alternate routes in your area in case of evacuation.

DISEASE PREVENTION: HOW TO AVOID A SECONDARY DISASTER

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

Disease Prevention:

How To Avoid a Secondary Disaster by Southwest Utah Public Health Epidemiologist Team and Shallen Sterner, Environmental Health Program Manager

Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice.

 

Disasters like floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes can create major public health challenges. Essential services are disrupted and people can be displaced from their homes. In these conditions, illnesses can spread quickly, posing a serious risk to communities already dealing with the aftermath of a disaster.

Respiratory diseases like the flu, tuberculosis, and the common cold spread mainly through droplets in the air that are released when people cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can be inhaled by others nearby, leading to infection, especially in homes or workplaces with poor ventilation or crowded shelters.

Touching hard surfaces that have been contaminated with viruses and bacteria from prior contact can also lead to infection if you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth afterward.

Whether you’re dealing with seasonal flu or a pandemic, preventive measures include:

Practicing proper handwashing and use of hand sanitizer.

Ensuring good air circulation by opening windows, using fans, or setting up outdoor areas.

Isolating sick individuals quickly. Caregivers can protect themselves by wearing an N-95 mask when they need to be within 3-6 feet of the sick person.

Getting vaccinated beforehand; immunizations against respiratory diseases now include influenza (flu), pneumonia, RSV, and COVID-19.

Animal and insect-borne diseases pose significant health risks in the aftermath of natural disasters. Habitat displacement, standing water, and poor sanitation can increase human contact with rodents, mosquitoes, fleas, flies, lice, and ticks, increasing the risk of disease transmission. Some of these diseases include:

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva). West Nile Virus (Spread by mosquitoes; symptoms range from mild fever to severe neurological complications)

Malaria, dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever (other mosquito-borne diseases that are uncommon in the US but could spread in certain flooding conditions).

Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, Q fever, and Lyme disease (tick-spread illnesses).

Leptospirosis (spread through water contaminated by animal urine).

Plague (transmitted by rodents and fleas).

Tularemia (spread via contact with infected animals or insect bites).

Rabies (fatal disease from being bitten or scratched by infected bats, raccoons, foxes, and other animals).

Prevention strategies include controlling rodents by sealing entry points into buildings, securing stored food, and keeping outdoor areas clean. Clean rodent droppings using protective equipment, especially gloves. Control mosquitoes by draining standing water, using insect repellent, and wearing long sleeves and pants where mosquitoes are common. Check yourself for ticks if you’ve been walking through brushy areas.

FOODBORNE ILLNESSES - Perishable foods can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria if not stored properly, leading to foodborne illnesses. To prevent bacterial growth, it's crucial to keep hazardous foods below 41°F.

If the power goes out, minimize opening your refrigerator and freezer doors. A closed refrigerator can keep food safe for about four hours without power, while a full freezer can hold its temperature for 24 to 48 hours. Keep appliance thermometers inside to monitor safe temperatures. For extended outages, consider using dry ice or blocks of ice in your refrigerator and freezer to keep temperatures below 41°F.

Foods that can become hazardous without the right preparation and storage include dairy, meat, seafood, seed sprouts, cut foods (like tomatoes, lettuce, and melons), and cooked plant foods (like rice, beans, and vegetables). Practice food safety by washing your hands properly, avoiding cross-contamination, keeping preparation areas and utensils clean, and discarding food with doubtful safety. Keep an emergency supply of non-perishable foods and bottled water.

By integrating these preventative measures into preparedness plans, families and communities can safeguard public health and recover more effectively from the hidden dangers that accompany natural disasters.

FAMILY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION: CREATING A PLAN

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

FAMILY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION: CREATING A PLAN by Austin Smith, Healthcare Preparedness Coordinator; Narrated by Austin Smith using AI-assisted voice.

 

We take for granted the ability to use devices to instantly see what’s going on in the world around us or have constant contact with our loved ones. In fact, it seems like most people over the age of twelve have a smartphone with them at all times.

It’s truly amazing how easy it is for us to communicate. But what would you do if that ability suddenly stopped working?

The communication services we use are not immune to infrastructure damage or cyberattacks. You and your family can prepare for these unexpected scenarios by creating a PACE plan, a model used by the military for backup contingencies. Here are ideas to help you stay in touch during emergencies:

P (PRIMARY)

This is the best-case scenario, or what you hope will still work, like cell phones and landlines. Here are ways to optimize your primary options:

• Keep a portable power bank and phone charging cord on hand/in your go-kit.

• Use a waterproof phone case or keep some Ziploc bags in your kit to protect devices.

• Print a hard copy of essential contacts to keep in your kit in case you need to use another phone.

• Keep a list of known landline locations that are available to you (Grandma’s house?).

(A)

ALTERNATE

Even if cell coverage and landlines are down, you may still be able to access the internet (Wi-Fi) to use web-based calling and messaging apps.

• Create family group chats on web-based apps that only require a Wi-Fi connection to use.

• Know what nearby public buildings have free Wi-Fi (library, shopping mall, fast food) and what the hours are. Others will likely have the same idea, so be considerate with your bandwidth use. Try messaging instead of calls.

C (CONTINGENCY)

For communications, this could be using two-way radios. There are three radio services that do not require a license to operate on: Family Radio Service (FRS), Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS), and Citizens Band (CB). These are good options for short-distance communications, and radios can be purchased at relatively low cost.

• Pre-determine at least two “family emergency” channels.

• Practice with the radios so that you understand how to use them and what their limitations are.

• Consider how you will recharge the batteries (portable power banks, extra batteries, etc).

• Use the 3-3-3 method to save power (turning radios on every 3 hours to communicate, starting at noon).

• There are other options for longer range radios like Amateur Radio (HAM) that require further training and licensing. (see page 16).

E(EMERGENCY)

These are plans of last resort; still achievable but obviously not your first choice:

• Establish a safe meeting place both in and outside of your neighborhood. Make sure everyone knows where it is and practice going there.

• Have a place (“drop-box”) where everyone knows to leave notes if you are away from home when they come to check on you.

• If using “runners”, clearly define who will be checking on whom and establish the locations where they will meet to exchange information.

A PACE plan can be created quickly and even be a fun family activity to practice when things are calm. This will help alleviate the stress and fear that often comes with a real disaster.

LIFELINE: AMATEUR RADIO DURING DISASTERS

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

LIFELINE: AMATEUR RADIO DURING DISASTERS by Brett Pruitt, Utah Section Emergency Coordinator

Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice.

While food, water, clothing, and medicine are important items for emergency preparedness, I would encourage you to look at your disaster supplies for another critical item that might be missing: a radio.

Although cell phones and the internet have changed how we communicate on a global scale, they require a large amount of physical infrastructure to work, which can become damaged and disabled in disasters. Radios, ham (amateur) radios in particular, only require a battery and an antenna.

Why amateur radio? The two-way radios you can buy at big box stores for $20 are severely limited in their capability. Ham radios have a lot more to offer, although you need to be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to use one.

There are three levels of amateur radio licensing: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. Additional privileges are granted with each level of license. Obtaining a license requires registering with the FCC and taking a written test. There are study guides available to help you prepare for the test, which can be taken in person or online. Once you pass the test, you’ll be issued your own call sign and allowed to use the amateur radio frequencies assigned to your license.

You’ll be able to communicate reliably at great distances using a standard handheld amateur radio, which is not too cost-prohibitive. You’ll also have a baseline knowledge of devices, antennas, and how radio communications work. Most importantly, you’ll be part of a robust network of other amateur radio operators who can communicate and share information with each other during a disaster when other methods are non-functional. These advantages have allowed ham radio operators to become a reliable part of emergency response efforts.

BE A PREPAREDNESS BUDDY

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

Be a Preparedness Buddy by Ali Elmen, MPH, Guest Author

Narrated by Lorenza Phillips using AI-assisted voice.

Did you know that more than half of Americans have a temporary or permanent condition that could limit their ability to respond during a disaster? Having a relative, friend, or neighbor - a preparedness buddy in place can make a big difference for individuals who may require additional assistance before, during, and after an emergency. Consider how a disaster might be challenging for the following groups:

Children, Individuals with disabilities, People with limited English proficiency, Residents of institutional settings, Individuals with chronic health conditions, People with fixed or low income, Individuals with pharmacological dependencies, those relying on medical devices or mobility aids, Individuals with limited access to transportation, Households with pets, farm animals, or service animals, People experiencing homelessness

Do you or someone you know fall into one of these categories? If so, here are ways to prepare for an emergency:

COMMUNICATION is crucial, especially for people who have difficulty hearing, seeing, speaking, or understanding. During emergencies, they might not hear announcements, see signs, or be able to express their needs. Planning ahead with text alerts, visual aids, or language translation services ensures they can receive and respond to critical information. They will also want to sign up for emergency alerts for their county.

MAINTAINING HEALTH is vital for those who require assistance to manage their health or daily activities. They should have a sufficient supply of medications, backup medical equipment, and a plan for accessing necessary treatments during an emergency.

INDEPENDENCE for those who rely on assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, or communication aids depends on those items being accessible and functional. Keep them in a location that is easy to access quickly and have backups if possible.

SUPPORT SYSTEMS for people with mental health conditions—including dementia, severe mental illness, or addiction—should be in place to provide stability and protection, since those conditions can be exacerbated during stressful situations like emergencies.

TRANSPORTATION needs should be considered in advance for individuals who cannot drive or require wheelchair-accessible vehicles, especially in case of evacuations. Preparation is a shared responsibility—how can you use this framework to enhance your readiness or assist someone you know?

PET PREPAREDNESS: KEEPING YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS SAFE

HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025
Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation

This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article.

The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode.

Pet Preparedness: Keeping Your Furry Family Member Safe By Best Friends Animal Society, Guest Contributor

Narrated by Tina Hicks using AI-assisted voice.

Emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s crucial for people with pets to be as prepared as possible for a potential evacuation or shelter-in-place situation that could last for hours, days, weeks, or even longer.

To make a truly effective pet emergency plan, be sure to include every member of your household by gathering their input and determining everyone’s roles. It is also critical to designate an off-site meeting location for everyone in case some members of the family are not home during an emergency evacuation. Once your plan is complete, make copies for everyone to have on hand and update the plan as necessary.

HELPFUL TRAINING FOR BOTH PETS AND HUMANS

If your pets are not crate-trained or are uncomfortable being in a carrier, work on helping them feel relaxed and safe while crated. Pets can feel stress and panic as danger nears; some try to escape or run and hide, which means they can become lost before they can be safely evacuated. It’s important to get them as comfortable as possible in their crates so that both you and your pets can safely and quickly evacuate during an emergency. Pets who have been crate-trained in the past but haven’t used a crate in a while might only need a refresher.

We also recommend putting a collar on your dog and walking them on a leash at least once a day, since both are critical in emergency situations.

Consider taking a pet first-aid and/or a pet CPR course (the Red Cross offers online classes) to ensure that you can attend to your pet’s potential medical needs as much as possible. Veterinary care might not be readily available during a crisis.

IDENTIFYING POTENTIAL CAREGIVERS AND PET-FRIENDLY LODGING

You might be displaced by a disaster and be unable to retrieve your pets. You can prepare for that by asking family, friends, or neighbors whether they would be willing to temporarily watch or pick up your pets in an emergency. It’s ideal to have a few designated pet caregivers.

Once you’ve determined who those designated caregivers are, make a list of your pets’ daily routines, any special needs, and the location of emergency supplies. Print out copies and send a digital copy to each designated caregiver.

Another option for displaced pets is a boarding facility. You’ll want to do some research in advance. If possible, visit the facility and interact with the employees to ensure that you are comfortable with the services provided. Information on your approved boarding facilities should also be given to your designated caregivers in case it turns out they are unable to house your pets.

Local sheltering facilities are usually created in real time leading up to or during an emergency. But it’s important to do your research now regarding potential sheltering options in your community, and keep a list of those options on your phone.

Another possibility is that you might end up evacuating with your pets in an emergency. Pet-friendly lodging is becoming more and more common, but you should still research in advance online and find several pet-friendly hotels within a five to fifty-mile radius.

TAKING PHOTOS OF YOUR PETS

Take a good photo of your pet, and keep a photo of both you and your pet on your phone in case you are separated. Also, consider printing out a few photos to have on hand in case your phone isn’t available or loses power or you don’t have access to social media platforms. This will help to ensure identification of your pet and a successful reunion.