988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

People can dial, call, text or chat 988, a the three-digit number, available 24/7, to directly connect anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis to compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors. 988 connects callers to the existing Oregon partners of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a network of local crisis call-centers throughout the country. 988 call-centers in Oregon are operated by Lines for Life statewide, and Northwest Human Services in Marion and Polk counties.

How Does 988 Work?

988 was established in July 2022 to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 988 provides easier access to behavioral health crisis services, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911 (where the focus is on dispatching Emergency Medical Services, fire and police as needed).

911 continues to operate as it does across the state. For serious and life-threatening situations, 988 call centers work with local mental health providers to support appropriate interventions.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon’s 988 call centers are collaborating with 911 Public Safety Answering Points to develop a roadmap on how 911 and 988 can coordinate with each other in the future.

988 crisis counselors are trained to use the least invasive interventions. Oftentimes, responding to a call, text or chat is all that is needed to help someone in crisis. In fact, more than 95 percent of current calls are resolved over the phone.

If a 988 call cannot be resolved over the phone, a mobile crisis team or first responder may be dispatched.

Other important facts to know:

• 988 is available through every landline, cell phone and voice-over internet device in the United States, as well as text and chat.
• The current technology for 988 routes callers by area code, not geolocation.
• 988 is not currently available when phones are locked or do not have prepaid minutes.
• The transition to 988 does not impact the availability of crisis services for veterans and military service members. They can call 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• For support in Spanish, callers can press 2 to connect with the Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has an infographic with more information on what happens when people call, text or chat.

Community partners interested in helping promote 988 can use posters, social media shareables and other materials about 988 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov/988. Learn more about 988 in Oregon on OHA’s 988 webpage. Read OHA’s press release about 988.

NOTE:

PeerGalaxy has a 988 Card and web page with additional resources.

For details, visit this link: https://www.peergalaxy.com/988card/

UPDATE

January 18, 2022

FREE COVID Test & Support

As of January 18, 2022, the U.S. Federal Government announced that households may get up to 4 FREE COVID tests.

Visit the website of the US Postal Service for free at-home COVID-19 test kits at this link:

https://special.usps.com/testkits

or

Visit this US White House provide link at:

https://www.covidtests.com

Excerpt(s):

Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address

One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests

Orders will ship free starting in late January

Fill in the form with your contact and shipping information to order your tests.

USPS only requires users to enter their name and the address where the kits will be shipped.

NOTE: If you have an apartment number or suite, be sure to put the apartment number on the 1st address line.  Otherwise, you might get an error message rejecting the request, indicating the address was already used.

If you test positive:

NEW: State of Oregon has a website and hotline number you can call for information on next steps if you test positive for COVID.

Hotline:

Toll Free (866) 917-8881.  Staff available Monday through Friday,  8am-6pm PST.  Saturday 10am-4pm PST.

Website:

https://govstatus.egov.com/or-oha-covid-19-positive-test?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Survey:

https://www.oregon.gov/positivecovidtest

—

Additional resources:

211info.org

Dial 211 to ask about COVID tests, vaccines, and boosters

SAFE+STRONG helpline for support 

Toll Free: (800) 923-4357

https://www.safestrongoregon.org/

Oregon Wildfire
Response & Recovery

Stay safe, stay informed and stay connected. Access resources before, during and after wildfires.

Find evacuation information in your area

Check with your county Sheriff’s Office or Emergency Manager for local evacuation information updates.

Find your local Sheriff

Sign up for Emergency Alerts! Get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.

SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY ALERTS

County & Tribal Emergency Management Contacts

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Leve

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Levels

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

LINKS TO ORIGINAL RESOURCES

• Up to date wildfire information: https://www.clackamas.us/wildfires
• Clackamas County Shelter info: https://www.clackamas.us/relief
• Evacuation maps: https://ccgis-mapservice.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=fe0525732f1a4f679b75a5ccf1c84b30
• Public Alert sign-up: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736729067#/signup
• PGE How to Prepare for a PSPS: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages-safety/be-prepared/prepare-your-home?utm_source=home-connection&utm_medium=print-newsletter&utm_campaign=home-connection&utm_content=2022-july-outage-with-preparation-comes-peace-of-mind
• Heat safety and preparedness in multiple languages: https://www.heat.gov/

WILDFIRE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE AND RECOVERY

CALL 911 for emergency assistance.

Call 211 or visit 211info.org
for information and/or resources.

DISCLAIMER:
This information is provided solely as a courtesy without any guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Nothing in this communication, nor any content linking to or from this communication, is intended to substitute for advice or counsel from qualified professionals. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

WARNING:
Never rely on any map for a decision regarding evacuation, or other precautionary actions.

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

DEFINITIONS / TERMS for Warning Status or Evacuation Level

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

National Weather Service Fire Warning Statuses

RED FLAG WARNING
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Red Flag Warning
to an alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions
happening NOW or expected VERY SOON.
Be extremely careful with open flames.
BEGIN to take action steps NOW for safety.

FIRE WEATHER WATCH
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Fire Weather Watch
to alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions POSSIBLE
but not immediate or happening now.
BE PREPARED to take action steps SOON for safety.

Source:

National Weather Service – Fire Information
https://www.weather.gov/fire

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Oregon Emergency Evacuation Levels

LEVEL 1: “BE READY” for potential evacuation.

Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, and county website to receive updated information.

This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets and livestock.

If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to a level 2 or 3 for this area.

LEVEL 2: “BE SET” to evacuate

You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice

This level indicates there is significant danger in your area, and residents should either voluntarily evacuate now to a shelter or to family/friend’s home outside of the affected area.

If choosing to remain, residents need to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items but doing so is at their own risk.

This may be the only notice you receive.

Continue to monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, county website to receive further information. If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to level 3 for this area and will make every attempt to return to this location with the new upgrade notice.

LEVEL 3: “GO” Evacuate NOW

Leave immediately!

Danger in your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this notice, you must understand that Public Safety Officials may not be available to assist you further.

DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
This may be the last notice you receive until the notice is cancelled or downgraded.

Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are deemed safe by Public Safety Officials. Local and regional media partners (digital, print, radio), public safety and county website-social media sites-call center will provide periodic updates.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

STATE OF OREGON

OREGON – OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – CURRENT HAZARDS DASHBOARD
Information on fires, volcanoes, earthquakes, floods, transportation, shelters and more.
plus daily report from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association)

https://arcg.is/140fCT

or

https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=cdf61542ff574df797bdae784992cc44&folderid=d152ce8b437c47b1ba66c125a3648822

OREGON WILDFIRE SITE
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – CURRENT HAZARDS
(Public Health /Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREPAREDNESS/CURRENTHAZARDS/Pages/index.aspx

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – EXTREME HEAT
(Public Health / Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/prepare/pages/prepareforextremeheat.aspx

UNITED STATES – FEDERAL / NATIONAL

READY.GOV (Preparedness, checklists, information for the whole family)
https://www.ready.gov

FEMA Locations – Search by State / Zip Code
https://www.fema.gov/locations

FEMA Service Referrals and Resources for OREGON (PDF format file)
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/fema_oregon-referral_dr-4562.pdf

DISASTER ASSISTANCE
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

** IMMEDIATE NEEDS **
such as
SHELTER, FOOD, WATER, MEDICAL, etc.

EVACUATE OR STAY PUT?

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/evacuate-or-stay-put

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)

FIND EMERGENCY SHELTER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-shelter

EMERGENCY FOOD AND WATER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-food-and-water

DISASTER DISTRESS HOTLINE – TOLL FREE – MULTILINGUAL

CALL 1-800 985 5990

or

TEXT “TalkWithUs” to 66746

The Disaster Distress Helpline,
1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline
dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

ALERTS AND INFORMATION

NEW OR-ALERT System

OR-Alert is an effort to ensure statewide access to receive alerts, warnings, and notifications (AWN) systems, enabling real-time sharing of hazard information across Oregon’s 36 counties and tribal governments. This technology also allows county emergency managers to access notification tools including FEMA’s Integrated Alerts and Warnings System (IPAWS) which is capable of issuing messaging to all cell phones in a geographic area.

This OR-Alert page will direct you to the sign up page for each county in Oregon

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

PUBLIC ALERTS – Signup to Get Alerts
https://www.publicalerts.org/signup

Clackamas County
http://www.clackamas.us/emergency/ccens.html

Columbia County
https://www.columbia911.com/general/page/columbia-alert-network-can

Linn & Benton County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085613276#/login

Marion County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736721950#/login

Salem
https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/get-community-alerts.aspx

Multnomah County Call Aging & Disability Helpline for Assistance Registering at 503 988 3646
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612905#/login

Washington County – Tigard residents can register for City Alert (https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/1E28B1D668D7) & Washco;
other residents should register only for the Washco County Alert System
http://www.wccca.com/wcens/

FLASH ALERT messaging system – has news etc. from various sources / agencies / locations
https://www.flashalert.net/

BY OREGON COUNTY / REGION
https://www.flashalert.net/regions/portland-vancouver-salem/?CatName=Counties%2FRegional&Texting=0

METCOM911 ALERTS (Marion County)
https://www.metcom911.com/

DISASTER MAPS including FLOODING, WILDFIRES

FIRE MAPS by USDA USFS & NASA
(U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service & National Aeronautical Space Administration)

FIRMS = Fire Incident Resource Management System for USA & CANADA
https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/usfs/

Formerly USDA USFS Active Fire Mapping
https://fsapps.nwcg.gov/afm/imagery.php

DISASTER MAPS
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer-disaster-maps.html

CURRENT WILDLAND FIRES – USA INTERACTIVE MAP
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer.php?center=40.749596,-111.533203&zoom=5&basemap=USA_basemap&overlay=VIIRS_24_hours,MODIS_24_hours&txtfile=https://mappingsupport.com/p2/special_maps/disaster/USA_wildland_fire.txt

Other Maps

RED CROSS SITES / REGION MAP FOR OREGON & MAP FOR OREGON & WASHINGTON
https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon/about-us/locations.html

FIRE, WEATHER & AVALANCHE CENTER – MAPS FOR WILDFIRES AND OTHER HAZARDS
https://www.fireweatheravalanche.org/fire/

The Fire, Weather & Avalanche Center’s (FWAC) mission as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is to build user-friendly products for the public—with an emphasis on the backcountry. We are currently building new tools all the time, but could always use support from you to bring these features to life! Our Wildfire Map shows every wildland fire burning around the country. Check to see if there are any wildfires are burning near you.

GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

GIS Server List (links to geographic information such as cooling centers)
https://mappingsupport.com/p/surf_gis/list-federal-state-county-city-GIS-servers.pdf

AIR QUALITY

AirNow.gov reports air quality using the official U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI), a color-coded index designed to communicate whether air quality is healthy or unhealthy for you. When you know the AQI in your area, you can take steps to protect your health. For more information, check out the links below:

AIRNOW.GOV
https://www.airnow.gov

AIRNOW.GOV Report on Portland, Oregon Air Quality
https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Portland&state=OR&country=USA

USA INTERACTIVE AIR QUALITY MAP
https://gispub.epa.gov/airnow/

OREGON AIR QUALITY BY CITY
https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=oregon

USA INTERACTIVE FIRE & SMOKE MAP
https://fire.airnow.gov/

CALLING 911 with a CELL PHONE

TIP: Calling 911 with a cell phone the smart way – see if you can get better coordinates in case of emergency

PROBLEM:
Coordinates may not be accurate or precise for authorities to find you if you call 911 by cell phone.

POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENT:
There may be some ways to improve this for better coordinates in case of emergency.

Check out this article on the smart way to call 911 with a cell phone
https://findmesar.com/p/pdf/smart-way-call-911-with-cell-phone.pdf

and decide if you want to consider any or all of these to get better coordinates in case of emergency:

1) changing certain settings on your device (see the article above for details),
2) downloading the app FindMeSAR to your device, and/or
3) visit https://findmesar.com in your web browser

Credit: Found this tip on: https://mappingsupport.com/

###

Excerpt(s) from another PeerGalaxy listing:

Facebook Groups for People affected by Wildfire, Smoke, etc. in Oregon plus Resource Links

To join a Facebook Group, login to Facebook on your browser. Click a link to a group (see below). Then, click JOIN. You may be asked to answer up to 3 questions. Usually these questions ask if you agree to group rules (no spam, no harassment, etc.) and if you have direct lived experience, especially if the group is closed / reserved for people with lived experience.

More groups may become available. If you have one to share, please share via email: webmail@peergalaxy.com

FACEBOOK GROUP PAGES
For people affected by recent wildfires in Oregon
1. Oregon Fires 2020 / 2021
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351/
2. Wildfire Home Loss Peer Support Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1593879390927628/
3. Rising from the Ashes of the Canyon (2020)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/risefromtheashessantiamcanyon/
4. Bruler Fire 2021
https://www.facebook.com/brulerfire2021/

MORE WILDFIRE RESOURCES

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP)

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP) empowers communities by connecting people to resources and services such as COVID-19 vaccination info; food, rent, and utility assistance; emotional support; and so much more. Rebuilding lives and livelihoods after a disaster isn’t something anyone needs to do alone.

Serving Statewide

English: Call or text 971- 420-1028

Spanish: Call or text 971- 420-1018

Link: cowop2021.org

WILDFIRE WELLNESS TOOLKIT

https://www.cowop2021.org/en/wellness-toolkit

Excerpt(s):

The purpose of this guide is to support individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by wildfire. We hope to provide resources to improve general wellness and tools for resiliency, knowing that people with greater feelings of wellness are better equipped to support their family and community.

1. Coping with Stress
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue1.pdf

2. Wildfire Resources
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue2.pdf

3. Strength and Resilience
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue3.pdf

4. Values: A Personal Compass
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue4.pdf

5. Caregiver Edition
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue5.pdf

6. Your Personal Wellness Vision
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue6.pdf

WILDFIRE SUPPORT PHONE NUMBERS

Clackamas County Health, Housing & Human Services
1-503-655-8585

ADAPT of Douglas County
1-800-866-9780

Marion County Health & Human Services
1-503-588-5288

Jackson County Health & Human Services
1-541-774-8201

Klamath Basin Behavioral Health
1-541-883-1030

Lane County Health & Human Services
1-541-687-4000

Lincoln County Health & Human Services
1-866-266-0288

Linn County Health Services
1-800-560-5535

WARMLINES / HELPLINES
1. Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 free and confidential disaster crisis counseling to anyone in the United States at 1-800-985-5990

2. Oregon Behavioral Health Support Line offers free confidential support to Oregonians at 1-800-923-HELP (4357)

3. Lines for Life offers 24-hour crisis support for drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and thoughts of suicide to youth, military personnel and their families, and those affected by substance abuse at 1-800-273-8255

4. David Romprey Warmline offers free confidential peer support to Oregonians week based on the framework of Intentional Peer Support.
We focus on building relationships that are mutual, explorative, and conscious of power. We don’t try to “fix” people, rather, we would love to connect with you to listen, share, and learn with you as we both move forward in our life journeys.
Daily, Monday-Sunday, 9am-11pm PST at: 1-800-698-2392

NOTE: During periods of large call volume, hold times can vary; there is usually an option to get a call back without losing your place in line.

OTHER RESOURCE PAGES
In addition, you may want to visit these resource pages

1. State of Oregon Wildfire Resource Website
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

2. US DHS Disaster Assistance
https://www.disasterassistance.gov

3. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management), Oregon Wildfires (EM-3542-OR) page:
https://www.fema.gov/disaster/3542
Event started 9/8/2020, Emergency declared 9/10/2020

4. FEMA Press Release:
State of Oregon and FEMA Working Together to Deliver Coordinated Wildfire Response
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200913/state-oregon-and-fema-working-together-deliver-coordinated-wildfire-response

5. American Red Cross Shelters
For temporary sheltering needs, Oregon wildfire survivors can find locations available at www.RedCross.org/shelter

6. Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (ORVOAD)
For verified disaster relief organizations
https://orvoad.communityos.org/cms/

7. Are you seeing signs of PTSD following the fires? Here’s what you can do from home
https://ktvl.com/news/news-10-first-alert-fire/are-you-seeing-signs-of-ptsd-following-the-fires-heres-what-you-can-do-from-home

8. Emergency Alert System review on its way in Jackson County
https://ktvl.com/station/news-10-first-alert-fire-recovery

9. Free Crisis Counseling
Free crisis counseling is available for Oregon residents affected by historic wildfire season

10. Health organization puts $500,000 toward post-fire recovery
https://mailtribune.com/news/top-stories/health-organization-puts-500000-toward-post-fire-recovery?fbclid=IwAR39JRJb7nfId4Fis2esZG_Jsuqsm_W5x_eI-bv5zXtdy-eRpwf6qp0fqGY

DISCLAIMER: Information is provided solely as a courtesy with guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Use at your own risk and expense. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

People can dial, call, text or chat 988, a the three-digit number, available 24/7, to directly connect anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis to compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors. 988 connects callers to the existing Oregon partners of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a network of local crisis call-centers throughout the country. 988 call-centers in Oregon are operated by Lines for Life statewide, and Northwest Human Services in Marion and Polk counties.

How Does 988 Work?

988 was established in July 2022 to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 988 provides easier access to behavioral health crisis services, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911 (where the focus is on dispatching Emergency Medical Services, fire and police as needed).

911 continues to operate as it does across the state. For serious and life-threatening situations, 988 call centers work with local mental health providers to support appropriate interventions.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon’s 988 call centers are collaborating with 911 Public Safety Answering Points to develop a roadmap on how 911 and 988 can coordinate with each other in the future.

988 crisis counselors are trained to use the least invasive interventions. Oftentimes, responding to a call, text or chat is all that is needed to help someone in crisis. In fact, more than 95 percent of current calls are resolved over the phone.

If a 988 call cannot be resolved over the phone, a mobile crisis team or first responder may be dispatched.

Other important facts to know:

• 988 is available through every landline, cell phone and voice-over internet device in the United States, as well as text and chat.
• The current technology for 988 routes callers by area code, not geolocation.
• 988 is not currently available when phones are locked or do not have prepaid minutes.
• The transition to 988 does not impact the availability of crisis services for veterans and military service members. They can call 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• For support in Spanish, callers can press 2 to connect with the Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has an infographic with more information on what happens when people call, text or chat.

Community partners interested in helping promote 988 can use posters, social media shareables and other materials about 988 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov/988. Learn more about 988 in Oregon on OHA’s 988 webpage. Read OHA’s press release about 988.

NOTE:

PeerGalaxy has a 988 Card and web page with additional resources.

For details, visit this link: https://www.peergalaxy.com/988card/

UPDATE

January 18, 2022

FREE COVID Test & Support

As of January 18, 2022, the U.S. Federal Government announced that households may get up to 4 FREE COVID tests.

Visit the website of the US Postal Service for free at-home COVID-19 test kits at this link:

https://special.usps.com/testkits

or

Visit this US White House provide link at:

https://www.covidtests.com

Excerpt(s):

Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address

One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests

Orders will ship free starting in late January

Fill in the form with your contact and shipping information to order your tests.

USPS only requires users to enter their name and the address where the kits will be shipped.

NOTE: If you have an apartment number or suite, be sure to put the apartment number on the 1st address line.  Otherwise, you might get an error message rejecting the request, indicating the address was already used.

If you test positive:

NEW: State of Oregon has a website and hotline number you can call for information on next steps if you test positive for COVID.

Hotline:

Toll Free (866) 917-8881.  Staff available Monday through Friday,  8am-6pm PST.  Saturday 10am-4pm PST.

Website:

https://govstatus.egov.com/or-oha-covid-19-positive-test?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Survey:

https://www.oregon.gov/positivecovidtest

—

Additional resources:

211info.org

Dial 211 to ask about COVID tests, vaccines, and boosters

SAFE+STRONG helpline for support 

Toll Free: (800) 923-4357

https://www.safestrongoregon.org/

Oregon Wildfire
Response & Recovery

Stay safe, stay informed and stay connected. Access resources before, during and after wildfires.

Find evacuation information in your area

Check with your county Sheriff’s Office or Emergency Manager for local evacuation information updates.

Find your local Sheriff

Sign up for Emergency Alerts! Get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.

SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY ALERTS

County & Tribal Emergency Management Contacts

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Leve

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Levels

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

LINKS TO ORIGINAL RESOURCES

• Up to date wildfire information: https://www.clackamas.us/wildfires
• Clackamas County Shelter info: https://www.clackamas.us/relief
• Evacuation maps: https://ccgis-mapservice.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=fe0525732f1a4f679b75a5ccf1c84b30
• Public Alert sign-up: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736729067#/signup
• PGE How to Prepare for a PSPS: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages-safety/be-prepared/prepare-your-home?utm_source=home-connection&utm_medium=print-newsletter&utm_campaign=home-connection&utm_content=2022-july-outage-with-preparation-comes-peace-of-mind
• Heat safety and preparedness in multiple languages: https://www.heat.gov/

WILDFIRE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE AND RECOVERY

CALL 911 for emergency assistance.

Call 211 or visit 211info.org
for information and/or resources.

DISCLAIMER:
This information is provided solely as a courtesy without any guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Nothing in this communication, nor any content linking to or from this communication, is intended to substitute for advice or counsel from qualified professionals. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

WARNING:
Never rely on any map for a decision regarding evacuation, or other precautionary actions.

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

DEFINITIONS / TERMS for Warning Status or Evacuation Level

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

National Weather Service Fire Warning Statuses

RED FLAG WARNING
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Red Flag Warning
to an alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions
happening NOW or expected VERY SOON.
Be extremely careful with open flames.
BEGIN to take action steps NOW for safety.

FIRE WEATHER WATCH
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Fire Weather Watch
to alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions POSSIBLE
but not immediate or happening now.
BE PREPARED to take action steps SOON for safety.

Source:

National Weather Service – Fire Information
https://www.weather.gov/fire

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Oregon Emergency Evacuation Levels

LEVEL 1: “BE READY” for potential evacuation.

Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, and county website to receive updated information.

This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets and livestock.

If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to a level 2 or 3 for this area.

LEVEL 2: “BE SET” to evacuate

You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice

This level indicates there is significant danger in your area, and residents should either voluntarily evacuate now to a shelter or to family/friend’s home outside of the affected area.

If choosing to remain, residents need to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items but doing so is at their own risk.

This may be the only notice you receive.

Continue to monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, county website to receive further information. If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to level 3 for this area and will make every attempt to return to this location with the new upgrade notice.

LEVEL 3: “GO” Evacuate NOW

Leave immediately!

Danger in your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this notice, you must understand that Public Safety Officials may not be available to assist you further.

DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
This may be the last notice you receive until the notice is cancelled or downgraded.

Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are deemed safe by Public Safety Officials. Local and regional media partners (digital, print, radio), public safety and county website-social media sites-call center will provide periodic updates.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

STATE OF OREGON

OREGON – OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – CURRENT HAZARDS DASHBOARD
Information on fires, volcanoes, earthquakes, floods, transportation, shelters and more.
plus daily report from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association)

https://arcg.is/140fCT

or

https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=cdf61542ff574df797bdae784992cc44&folderid=d152ce8b437c47b1ba66c125a3648822

OREGON WILDFIRE SITE
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – CURRENT HAZARDS
(Public Health /Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREPAREDNESS/CURRENTHAZARDS/Pages/index.aspx

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – EXTREME HEAT
(Public Health / Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/prepare/pages/prepareforextremeheat.aspx

UNITED STATES – FEDERAL / NATIONAL

READY.GOV (Preparedness, checklists, information for the whole family)
https://www.ready.gov

FEMA Locations – Search by State / Zip Code
https://www.fema.gov/locations

FEMA Service Referrals and Resources for OREGON (PDF format file)
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/fema_oregon-referral_dr-4562.pdf

DISASTER ASSISTANCE
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

** IMMEDIATE NEEDS **
such as
SHELTER, FOOD, WATER, MEDICAL, etc.

EVACUATE OR STAY PUT?

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/evacuate-or-stay-put

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)

FIND EMERGENCY SHELTER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-shelter

EMERGENCY FOOD AND WATER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-food-and-water

DISASTER DISTRESS HOTLINE – TOLL FREE – MULTILINGUAL

CALL 1-800 985 5990

or

TEXT “TalkWithUs” to 66746

The Disaster Distress Helpline,
1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline
dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

ALERTS AND INFORMATION

NEW OR-ALERT System

OR-Alert is an effort to ensure statewide access to receive alerts, warnings, and notifications (AWN) systems, enabling real-time sharing of hazard information across Oregon’s 36 counties and tribal governments. This technology also allows county emergency managers to access notification tools including FEMA’s Integrated Alerts and Warnings System (IPAWS) which is capable of issuing messaging to all cell phones in a geographic area.

This OR-Alert page will direct you to the sign up page for each county in Oregon

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

PUBLIC ALERTS – Signup to Get Alerts
https://www.publicalerts.org/signup

Clackamas County
http://www.clackamas.us/emergency/ccens.html

Columbia County
https://www.columbia911.com/general/page/columbia-alert-network-can

Linn & Benton County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085613276#/login

Marion County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736721950#/login

Salem
https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/get-community-alerts.aspx

Multnomah County Call Aging & Disability Helpline for Assistance Registering at 503 988 3646
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612905#/login

Washington County – Tigard residents can register for City Alert (https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/1E28B1D668D7) & Washco;
other residents should register only for the Washco County Alert System
http://www.wccca.com/wcens/

FLASH ALERT messaging system – has news etc. from various sources / agencies / locations
https://www.flashalert.net/

BY OREGON COUNTY / REGION
https://www.flashalert.net/regions/portland-vancouver-salem/?CatName=Counties%2FRegional&Texting=0

METCOM911 ALERTS (Marion County)
https://www.metcom911.com/

DISASTER MAPS including FLOODING, WILDFIRES

FIRE MAPS by USDA USFS & NASA
(U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service & National Aeronautical Space Administration)

FIRMS = Fire Incident Resource Management System for USA & CANADA
https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/usfs/

Formerly USDA USFS Active Fire Mapping
https://fsapps.nwcg.gov/afm/imagery.php

DISASTER MAPS
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer-disaster-maps.html

CURRENT WILDLAND FIRES – USA INTERACTIVE MAP
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer.php?center=40.749596,-111.533203&zoom=5&basemap=USA_basemap&overlay=VIIRS_24_hours,MODIS_24_hours&txtfile=https://mappingsupport.com/p2/special_maps/disaster/USA_wildland_fire.txt

Other Maps

RED CROSS SITES / REGION MAP FOR OREGON & MAP FOR OREGON & WASHINGTON
https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon/about-us/locations.html

FIRE, WEATHER & AVALANCHE CENTER – MAPS FOR WILDFIRES AND OTHER HAZARDS
https://www.fireweatheravalanche.org/fire/

The Fire, Weather & Avalanche Center’s (FWAC) mission as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is to build user-friendly products for the public—with an emphasis on the backcountry. We are currently building new tools all the time, but could always use support from you to bring these features to life! Our Wildfire Map shows every wildland fire burning around the country. Check to see if there are any wildfires are burning near you.

GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

GIS Server List (links to geographic information such as cooling centers)
https://mappingsupport.com/p/surf_gis/list-federal-state-county-city-GIS-servers.pdf

AIR QUALITY

AirNow.gov reports air quality using the official U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI), a color-coded index designed to communicate whether air quality is healthy or unhealthy for you. When you know the AQI in your area, you can take steps to protect your health. For more information, check out the links below:

AIRNOW.GOV
https://www.airnow.gov

AIRNOW.GOV Report on Portland, Oregon Air Quality
https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Portland&state=OR&country=USA

USA INTERACTIVE AIR QUALITY MAP
https://gispub.epa.gov/airnow/

OREGON AIR QUALITY BY CITY
https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=oregon

USA INTERACTIVE FIRE & SMOKE MAP
https://fire.airnow.gov/

CALLING 911 with a CELL PHONE

TIP: Calling 911 with a cell phone the smart way – see if you can get better coordinates in case of emergency

PROBLEM:
Coordinates may not be accurate or precise for authorities to find you if you call 911 by cell phone.

POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENT:
There may be some ways to improve this for better coordinates in case of emergency.

Check out this article on the smart way to call 911 with a cell phone
https://findmesar.com/p/pdf/smart-way-call-911-with-cell-phone.pdf

and decide if you want to consider any or all of these to get better coordinates in case of emergency:

1) changing certain settings on your device (see the article above for details),
2) downloading the app FindMeSAR to your device, and/or
3) visit https://findmesar.com in your web browser

Credit: Found this tip on: https://mappingsupport.com/

###

Excerpt(s) from another PeerGalaxy listing:

Facebook Groups for People affected by Wildfire, Smoke, etc. in Oregon plus Resource Links

To join a Facebook Group, login to Facebook on your browser. Click a link to a group (see below). Then, click JOIN. You may be asked to answer up to 3 questions. Usually these questions ask if you agree to group rules (no spam, no harassment, etc.) and if you have direct lived experience, especially if the group is closed / reserved for people with lived experience.

More groups may become available. If you have one to share, please share via email: webmail@peergalaxy.com

FACEBOOK GROUP PAGES
For people affected by recent wildfires in Oregon
1. Oregon Fires 2020 / 2021
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351/
2. Wildfire Home Loss Peer Support Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1593879390927628/
3. Rising from the Ashes of the Canyon (2020)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/risefromtheashessantiamcanyon/
4. Bruler Fire 2021
https://www.facebook.com/brulerfire2021/

MORE WILDFIRE RESOURCES

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP)

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP) empowers communities by connecting people to resources and services such as COVID-19 vaccination info; food, rent, and utility assistance; emotional support; and so much more. Rebuilding lives and livelihoods after a disaster isn’t something anyone needs to do alone.

Serving Statewide

English: Call or text 971- 420-1028

Spanish: Call or text 971- 420-1018

Link: cowop2021.org

WILDFIRE WELLNESS TOOLKIT

https://www.cowop2021.org/en/wellness-toolkit

Excerpt(s):

The purpose of this guide is to support individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by wildfire. We hope to provide resources to improve general wellness and tools for resiliency, knowing that people with greater feelings of wellness are better equipped to support their family and community.

1. Coping with Stress
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue1.pdf

2. Wildfire Resources
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue2.pdf

3. Strength and Resilience
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue3.pdf

4. Values: A Personal Compass
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue4.pdf

5. Caregiver Edition
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue5.pdf

6. Your Personal Wellness Vision
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue6.pdf

WILDFIRE SUPPORT PHONE NUMBERS

Clackamas County Health, Housing & Human Services
1-503-655-8585

ADAPT of Douglas County
1-800-866-9780

Marion County Health & Human Services
1-503-588-5288

Jackson County Health & Human Services
1-541-774-8201

Klamath Basin Behavioral Health
1-541-883-1030

Lane County Health & Human Services
1-541-687-4000

Lincoln County Health & Human Services
1-866-266-0288

Linn County Health Services
1-800-560-5535

WARMLINES / HELPLINES
1. Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 free and confidential disaster crisis counseling to anyone in the United States at 1-800-985-5990

2. Oregon Behavioral Health Support Line offers free confidential support to Oregonians at 1-800-923-HELP (4357)

3. Lines for Life offers 24-hour crisis support for drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and thoughts of suicide to youth, military personnel and their families, and those affected by substance abuse at 1-800-273-8255

4. David Romprey Warmline offers free confidential peer support to Oregonians week based on the framework of Intentional Peer Support.
We focus on building relationships that are mutual, explorative, and conscious of power. We don’t try to “fix” people, rather, we would love to connect with you to listen, share, and learn with you as we both move forward in our life journeys.
Daily, Monday-Sunday, 9am-11pm PST at: 1-800-698-2392

NOTE: During periods of large call volume, hold times can vary; there is usually an option to get a call back without losing your place in line.

OTHER RESOURCE PAGES
In addition, you may want to visit these resource pages

1. State of Oregon Wildfire Resource Website
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

2. US DHS Disaster Assistance
https://www.disasterassistance.gov

3. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management), Oregon Wildfires (EM-3542-OR) page:
https://www.fema.gov/disaster/3542
Event started 9/8/2020, Emergency declared 9/10/2020

4. FEMA Press Release:
State of Oregon and FEMA Working Together to Deliver Coordinated Wildfire Response
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200913/state-oregon-and-fema-working-together-deliver-coordinated-wildfire-response

5. American Red Cross Shelters
For temporary sheltering needs, Oregon wildfire survivors can find locations available at www.RedCross.org/shelter

6. Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (ORVOAD)
For verified disaster relief organizations
https://orvoad.communityos.org/cms/

7. Are you seeing signs of PTSD following the fires? Here’s what you can do from home
https://ktvl.com/news/news-10-first-alert-fire/are-you-seeing-signs-of-ptsd-following-the-fires-heres-what-you-can-do-from-home

8. Emergency Alert System review on its way in Jackson County
https://ktvl.com/station/news-10-first-alert-fire-recovery

9. Free Crisis Counseling
Free crisis counseling is available for Oregon residents affected by historic wildfire season

10. Health organization puts $500,000 toward post-fire recovery
https://mailtribune.com/news/top-stories/health-organization-puts-500000-toward-post-fire-recovery?fbclid=IwAR39JRJb7nfId4Fis2esZG_Jsuqsm_W5x_eI-bv5zXtdy-eRpwf6qp0fqGY

DISCLAIMER: Information is provided solely as a courtesy with guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Use at your own risk and expense. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

People can dial, call, text or chat 988, a the three-digit number, available 24/7, to directly connect anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis to compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors. 988 connects callers to the existing Oregon partners of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a network of local crisis call-centers throughout the country. 988 call-centers in Oregon are operated by Lines for Life statewide, and Northwest Human Services in Marion and Polk counties.

How Does 988 Work?

988 was established in July 2022 to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 988 provides easier access to behavioral health crisis services, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911 (where the focus is on dispatching Emergency Medical Services, fire and police as needed).

911 continues to operate as it does across the state. For serious and life-threatening situations, 988 call centers work with local mental health providers to support appropriate interventions.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon’s 988 call centers are collaborating with 911 Public Safety Answering Points to develop a roadmap on how 911 and 988 can coordinate with each other in the future.

988 crisis counselors are trained to use the least invasive interventions. Oftentimes, responding to a call, text or chat is all that is needed to help someone in crisis. In fact, more than 95 percent of current calls are resolved over the phone.

If a 988 call cannot be resolved over the phone, a mobile crisis team or first responder may be dispatched.

Other important facts to know:

• 988 is available through every landline, cell phone and voice-over internet device in the United States, as well as text and chat.
• The current technology for 988 routes callers by area code, not geolocation.
• 988 is not currently available when phones are locked or do not have prepaid minutes.
• The transition to 988 does not impact the availability of crisis services for veterans and military service members. They can call 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• For support in Spanish, callers can press 2 to connect with the Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has an infographic with more information on what happens when people call, text or chat.

Community partners interested in helping promote 988 can use posters, social media shareables and other materials about 988 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov/988. Learn more about 988 in Oregon on OHA’s 988 webpage. Read OHA’s press release about 988.

NOTE:

PeerGalaxy has a 988 Card and web page with additional resources.

For details, visit this link: https://www.peergalaxy.com/988card/

UPDATE

January 18, 2022

FREE COVID Test & Support

As of January 18, 2022, the U.S. Federal Government announced that households may get up to 4 FREE COVID tests.

Visit the website of the US Postal Service for free at-home COVID-19 test kits at this link:

https://special.usps.com/testkits

or

Visit this US White House provide link at:

https://www.covidtests.com

Excerpt(s):

Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address

One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests

Orders will ship free starting in late January

Fill in the form with your contact and shipping information to order your tests.

USPS only requires users to enter their name and the address where the kits will be shipped.

NOTE: If you have an apartment number or suite, be sure to put the apartment number on the 1st address line.  Otherwise, you might get an error message rejecting the request, indicating the address was already used.

If you test positive:

NEW: State of Oregon has a website and hotline number you can call for information on next steps if you test positive for COVID.

Hotline:

Toll Free (866) 917-8881.  Staff available Monday through Friday,  8am-6pm PST.  Saturday 10am-4pm PST.

Website:

https://govstatus.egov.com/or-oha-covid-19-positive-test?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Survey:

https://www.oregon.gov/positivecovidtest

—

Additional resources:

211info.org

Dial 211 to ask about COVID tests, vaccines, and boosters

SAFE+STRONG helpline for support 

Toll Free: (800) 923-4357

https://www.safestrongoregon.org/

Oregon Wildfire
Response & Recovery

Stay safe, stay informed and stay connected. Access resources before, during and after wildfires.

Find evacuation information in your area

Check with your county Sheriff’s Office or Emergency Manager for local evacuation information updates.

Find your local Sheriff

Sign up for Emergency Alerts! Get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.

SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY ALERTS

County & Tribal Emergency Management Contacts

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Leve

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Levels

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

LINKS TO ORIGINAL RESOURCES

• Up to date wildfire information: https://www.clackamas.us/wildfires
• Clackamas County Shelter info: https://www.clackamas.us/relief
• Evacuation maps: https://ccgis-mapservice.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=fe0525732f1a4f679b75a5ccf1c84b30
• Public Alert sign-up: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736729067#/signup
• PGE How to Prepare for a PSPS: https://portlandgeneral.com/outages-safety/be-prepared/prepare-your-home?utm_source=home-connection&utm_medium=print-newsletter&utm_campaign=home-connection&utm_content=2022-july-outage-with-preparation-comes-peace-of-mind
• Heat safety and preparedness in multiple languages: https://www.heat.gov/

WILDFIRE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE AND RECOVERY

CALL 911 for emergency assistance.

Call 211 or visit 211info.org
for information and/or resources.

DISCLAIMER:
This information is provided solely as a courtesy without any guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Nothing in this communication, nor any content linking to or from this communication, is intended to substitute for advice or counsel from qualified professionals. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

WARNING:
Never rely on any map for a decision regarding evacuation, or other precautionary actions.

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

DEFINITIONS / TERMS for Warning Status or Evacuation Level

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

National Weather Service Fire Warning Statuses

RED FLAG WARNING
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Red Flag Warning
to an alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions
happening NOW or expected VERY SOON.
Be extremely careful with open flames.
BEGIN to take action steps NOW for safety.

FIRE WEATHER WATCH
The National Weather Service (NWS) may issue a
Fire Weather Watch
to alert people if there are
critical fire weather conditions POSSIBLE
but not immediate or happening now.
BE PREPARED to take action steps SOON for safety.

Source:

National Weather Service – Fire Information
https://www.weather.gov/fire

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Oregon Emergency Evacuation Levels

LEVEL 1: “BE READY” for potential evacuation.

Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, and county website to receive updated information.

This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets and livestock.

If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to a level 2 or 3 for this area.

LEVEL 2: “BE SET” to evacuate

You must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice

This level indicates there is significant danger in your area, and residents should either voluntarily evacuate now to a shelter or to family/friend’s home outside of the affected area.

If choosing to remain, residents need to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items but doing so is at their own risk.

This may be the only notice you receive.

Continue to monitor your telephone devices, local media sources, county website to receive further information. If conditions worsen, public safety will issue an upgrade to level 3 for this area and will make every attempt to return to this location with the new upgrade notice.

LEVEL 3: “GO” Evacuate NOW

Leave immediately!

Danger in your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this notice, you must understand that Public Safety Officials may not be available to assist you further.

DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
This may be the last notice you receive until the notice is cancelled or downgraded.

Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are deemed safe by Public Safety Officials. Local and regional media partners (digital, print, radio), public safety and county website-social media sites-call center will provide periodic updates.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

STATE OF OREGON

OREGON – OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – CURRENT HAZARDS DASHBOARD
Information on fires, volcanoes, earthquakes, floods, transportation, shelters and more.
plus daily report from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association)

https://arcg.is/140fCT

or

https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=cdf61542ff574df797bdae784992cc44&folderid=d152ce8b437c47b1ba66c125a3648822

OREGON WILDFIRE SITE
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – CURRENT HAZARDS
(Public Health /Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREPAREDNESS/CURRENTHAZARDS/Pages/index.aspx

OREGON – PUBLIC HEALTH DIVISION – EXTREME HEAT
(Public Health / Preparedness)

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/prepare/pages/prepareforextremeheat.aspx

UNITED STATES – FEDERAL / NATIONAL

READY.GOV (Preparedness, checklists, information for the whole family)
https://www.ready.gov

FEMA Locations – Search by State / Zip Code
https://www.fema.gov/locations

FEMA Service Referrals and Resources for OREGON (PDF format file)
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/fema_oregon-referral_dr-4562.pdf

DISASTER ASSISTANCE
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

** IMMEDIATE NEEDS **
such as
SHELTER, FOOD, WATER, MEDICAL, etc.

EVACUATE OR STAY PUT?

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/evacuate-or-stay-put

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)

FIND EMERGENCY SHELTER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-shelter

EMERGENCY FOOD AND WATER
https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-food-and-water

DISASTER DISTRESS HOTLINE – TOLL FREE – MULTILINGUAL

CALL 1-800 985 5990

or

TEXT “TalkWithUs” to 66746

The Disaster Distress Helpline,
1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline
dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

ALERTS AND INFORMATION

NEW OR-ALERT System

OR-Alert is an effort to ensure statewide access to receive alerts, warnings, and notifications (AWN) systems, enabling real-time sharing of hazard information across Oregon’s 36 counties and tribal governments. This technology also allows county emergency managers to access notification tools including FEMA’s Integrated Alerts and Warnings System (IPAWS) which is capable of issuing messaging to all cell phones in a geographic area.

This OR-Alert page will direct you to the sign up page for each county in Oregon

When it comes to evacuation, DisasterAssistance.org says:
“Check with local tv and radio”
(7/12/2021)
Wikipedia:
Oregon Radio Stations
Oregon TV Stations

NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:
Oregon National Weather Radio Stations
Oregon Weather Alerts – Statewide
or By County or By Zone

PUBLIC ALERTS – Signup to Get Alerts
https://www.publicalerts.org/signup

Clackamas County
http://www.clackamas.us/emergency/ccens.html

Columbia County
https://www.columbia911.com/general/page/columbia-alert-network-can

Linn & Benton County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085613276#/login

Marion County
https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736721950#/login

Salem
https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/get-community-alerts.aspx

Multnomah County Call Aging & Disability Helpline for Assistance Registering at 503 988 3646
https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612905#/login

Washington County – Tigard residents can register for City Alert (https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/1E28B1D668D7) & Washco;
other residents should register only for the Washco County Alert System
http://www.wccca.com/wcens/

FLASH ALERT messaging system – has news etc. from various sources / agencies / locations
https://www.flashalert.net/

BY OREGON COUNTY / REGION
https://www.flashalert.net/regions/portland-vancouver-salem/?CatName=Counties%2FRegional&Texting=0

METCOM911 ALERTS (Marion County)
https://www.metcom911.com/

DISASTER MAPS including FLOODING, WILDFIRES

FIRE MAPS by USDA USFS & NASA
(U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service & National Aeronautical Space Administration)

FIRMS = Fire Incident Resource Management System for USA & CANADA
https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/usfs/

Formerly USDA USFS Active Fire Mapping
https://fsapps.nwcg.gov/afm/imagery.php

DISASTER MAPS
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer-disaster-maps.html

CURRENT WILDLAND FIRES – USA INTERACTIVE MAP
https://mappingsupport.com/p2/gissurfer.php?center=40.749596,-111.533203&zoom=5&basemap=USA_basemap&overlay=VIIRS_24_hours,MODIS_24_hours&txtfile=https://mappingsupport.com/p2/special_maps/disaster/USA_wildland_fire.txt

Other Maps

RED CROSS SITES / REGION MAP FOR OREGON & MAP FOR OREGON & WASHINGTON
https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon/about-us/locations.html

FIRE, WEATHER & AVALANCHE CENTER – MAPS FOR WILDFIRES AND OTHER HAZARDS
https://www.fireweatheravalanche.org/fire/

The Fire, Weather & Avalanche Center’s (FWAC) mission as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is to build user-friendly products for the public—with an emphasis on the backcountry. We are currently building new tools all the time, but could always use support from you to bring these features to life! Our Wildfire Map shows every wildland fire burning around the country. Check to see if there are any wildfires are burning near you.

GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

GIS Server List (links to geographic information such as cooling centers)
https://mappingsupport.com/p/surf_gis/list-federal-state-county-city-GIS-servers.pdf

AIR QUALITY

AirNow.gov reports air quality using the official U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI), a color-coded index designed to communicate whether air quality is healthy or unhealthy for you. When you know the AQI in your area, you can take steps to protect your health. For more information, check out the links below:

AIRNOW.GOV
https://www.airnow.gov

AIRNOW.GOV Report on Portland, Oregon Air Quality
https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Portland&state=OR&country=USA

USA INTERACTIVE AIR QUALITY MAP
https://gispub.epa.gov/airnow/

OREGON AIR QUALITY BY CITY
https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=oregon

USA INTERACTIVE FIRE & SMOKE MAP
https://fire.airnow.gov/

CALLING 911 with a CELL PHONE

TIP: Calling 911 with a cell phone the smart way – see if you can get better coordinates in case of emergency

PROBLEM:
Coordinates may not be accurate or precise for authorities to find you if you call 911 by cell phone.

POSSIBLE IMPROVEMENT:
There may be some ways to improve this for better coordinates in case of emergency.

Check out this article on the smart way to call 911 with a cell phone
https://findmesar.com/p/pdf/smart-way-call-911-with-cell-phone.pdf

and decide if you want to consider any or all of these to get better coordinates in case of emergency:

1) changing certain settings on your device (see the article above for details),
2) downloading the app FindMeSAR to your device, and/or
3) visit https://findmesar.com in your web browser

Credit: Found this tip on: https://mappingsupport.com/

###

Excerpt(s) from another PeerGalaxy listing:

Facebook Groups for People affected by Wildfire, Smoke, etc. in Oregon plus Resource Links

To join a Facebook Group, login to Facebook on your browser. Click a link to a group (see below). Then, click JOIN. You may be asked to answer up to 3 questions. Usually these questions ask if you agree to group rules (no spam, no harassment, etc.) and if you have direct lived experience, especially if the group is closed / reserved for people with lived experience.

More groups may become available. If you have one to share, please share via email: webmail@peergalaxy.com

FACEBOOK GROUP PAGES
For people affected by recent wildfires in Oregon
1. Oregon Fires 2020 / 2021
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351/
2. Wildfire Home Loss Peer Support Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1593879390927628/
3. Rising from the Ashes of the Canyon (2020)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/risefromtheashessantiamcanyon/
4. Bruler Fire 2021
https://www.facebook.com/brulerfire2021/

MORE WILDFIRE RESOURCES

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP)

The COVID-19 & Oregon Wildfire Outreach Program (COWOP) empowers communities by connecting people to resources and services such as COVID-19 vaccination info; food, rent, and utility assistance; emotional support; and so much more. Rebuilding lives and livelihoods after a disaster isn’t something anyone needs to do alone.

Serving Statewide

English: Call or text 971- 420-1028

Spanish: Call or text 971- 420-1018

Link: cowop2021.org

WILDFIRE WELLNESS TOOLKIT

https://www.cowop2021.org/en/wellness-toolkit

Excerpt(s):

The purpose of this guide is to support individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by wildfire. We hope to provide resources to improve general wellness and tools for resiliency, knowing that people with greater feelings of wellness are better equipped to support their family and community.

1. Coping with Stress
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue1.pdf

2. Wildfire Resources
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue2.pdf

3. Strength and Resilience
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue3.pdf

4. Values: A Personal Compass
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue4.pdf

5. Caregiver Edition
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue5.pdf

6. Your Personal Wellness Vision
https://www.cowop2021.org/s/Wildfire_Toolkit_Issue6.pdf

WILDFIRE SUPPORT PHONE NUMBERS

Clackamas County Health, Housing & Human Services
1-503-655-8585

ADAPT of Douglas County
1-800-866-9780

Marion County Health & Human Services
1-503-588-5288

Jackson County Health & Human Services
1-541-774-8201

Klamath Basin Behavioral Health
1-541-883-1030

Lane County Health & Human Services
1-541-687-4000

Lincoln County Health & Human Services
1-866-266-0288

Linn County Health Services
1-800-560-5535

WARMLINES / HELPLINES
1. Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 free and confidential disaster crisis counseling to anyone in the United States at 1-800-985-5990

2. Oregon Behavioral Health Support Line offers free confidential support to Oregonians at 1-800-923-HELP (4357)

3. Lines for Life offers 24-hour crisis support for drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and thoughts of suicide to youth, military personnel and their families, and those affected by substance abuse at 1-800-273-8255

4. David Romprey Warmline offers free confidential peer support to Oregonians week based on the framework of Intentional Peer Support.
We focus on building relationships that are mutual, explorative, and conscious of power. We don’t try to “fix” people, rather, we would love to connect with you to listen, share, and learn with you as we both move forward in our life journeys.
Daily, Monday-Sunday, 9am-11pm PST at: 1-800-698-2392

NOTE: During periods of large call volume, hold times can vary; there is usually an option to get a call back without losing your place in line.

OTHER RESOURCE PAGES
In addition, you may want to visit these resource pages

1. State of Oregon Wildfire Resource Website
https://wildfire.oregon.gov

2. US DHS Disaster Assistance
https://www.disasterassistance.gov

3. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management), Oregon Wildfires (EM-3542-OR) page:
https://www.fema.gov/disaster/3542
Event started 9/8/2020, Emergency declared 9/10/2020

4. FEMA Press Release:
State of Oregon and FEMA Working Together to Deliver Coordinated Wildfire Response
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20200913/state-oregon-and-fema-working-together-deliver-coordinated-wildfire-response

5. American Red Cross Shelters
For temporary sheltering needs, Oregon wildfire survivors can find locations available at www.RedCross.org/shelter

6. Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (ORVOAD)
For verified disaster relief organizations
https://orvoad.communityos.org/cms/

7. Are you seeing signs of PTSD following the fires? Here’s what you can do from home
https://ktvl.com/news/news-10-first-alert-fire/are-you-seeing-signs-of-ptsd-following-the-fires-heres-what-you-can-do-from-home

8. Emergency Alert System review on its way in Jackson County
https://ktvl.com/station/news-10-first-alert-fire-recovery

9. Free Crisis Counseling
Free crisis counseling is available for Oregon residents affected by historic wildfire season

10. Health organization puts $500,000 toward post-fire recovery
https://mailtribune.com/news/top-stories/health-organization-puts-500000-toward-post-fire-recovery?fbclid=IwAR39JRJb7nfId4Fis2esZG_Jsuqsm_W5x_eI-bv5zXtdy-eRpwf6qp0fqGY

DISCLAIMER: Information is provided solely as a courtesy with guarantees or warranties of any kind whatsoever. Use at your own risk and expense. You are hereby notified and advised to seek counsel from qualified professionals at your own risk and expense.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

People can dial, call, text or chat 988, a the three-digit number, available 24/7, to directly connect anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis to compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors. 988 connects callers to the existing Oregon partners of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a network of local crisis call-centers throughout the country. 988 call-centers in Oregon are operated by Lines for Life statewide, and Northwest Human Services in Marion and Polk counties.

How Does 988 Work?

988 was established in July 2022 to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 988 provides easier access to behavioral health crisis services, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911 (where the focus is on dispatching Emergency Medical Services, fire and police as needed).

911 continues to operate as it does across the state. For serious and life-threatening situations, 988 call centers work with local mental health providers to support appropriate interventions.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon’s 988 call centers are collaborating with 911 Public Safety Answering Points to develop a roadmap on how 911 and 988 can coordinate with each other in the future.

988 crisis counselors are trained to use the least invasive interventions. Oftentimes, responding to a call, text or chat is all that is needed to help someone in crisis. In fact, more than 95 percent of current calls are resolved over the phone.

If a 988 call cannot be resolved over the phone, a mobile crisis team or first responder may be dispatched.

Other important facts to know:

• 988 is available through every landline, cell phone and voice-over internet device in the United States, as well as text and chat.
• The current technology for 988 routes callers by area code, not geolocation.
• 988 is not currently available when phones are locked or do not have prepaid minutes.
• The transition to 988 does not impact the availability of crisis services for veterans and military service members. They can call 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• For support in Spanish, callers can press 2 to connect with the Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has an infographic with more information on what happens when people call, text or chat.

Community partners interested in helping promote 988 can use posters, social media shareables and other materials about 988 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov/988. Learn more about 988 in Oregon on OHA’s 988 webpage. Read OHA’s press release about 988.

NOTE:

PeerGalaxy has a 988 Card and web page with additional resources.

For details, visit this link: https://www.peergalaxy.com/988card/

UPDATE

January 18, 2022

FREE COVID Test & Support

As of January 18, 2022, the U.S. Federal Government announced that households may get up to 4 FREE COVID tests.

Visit the website of the US Postal Service for free at-home COVID-19 test kits at this link:

https://special.usps.com/testkits

or

Visit this US White House provide link at:

https://www.covidtests.com

Excerpt(s):

Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address

One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests

Orders will ship free starting in late January

Fill in the form with your contact and shipping information to order your tests.

USPS only requires users to enter their name and the address where the kits will be shipped.

NOTE: If you have an apartment number or suite, be sure to put the apartment number on the 1st address line.  Otherwise, you might get an error message rejecting the request, indicating the address was already used.

If you test positive:

NEW: State of Oregon has a website and hotline number you can call for information on next steps if you test positive for COVID.

Hotline:

Toll Free (866) 917-8881.  Staff available Monday through Friday,  8am-6pm PST.  Saturday 10am-4pm PST.

Website:

https://govstatus.egov.com/or-oha-covid-19-positive-test?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Survey:

https://www.oregon.gov/positivecovidtest

—

Additional resources:

211info.org

Dial 211 to ask about COVID tests, vaccines, and boosters

SAFE+STRONG helpline for support 

Toll Free: (800) 923-4357

https://www.safestrongoregon.org/

Oregon Wildfire
Response & Recovery

Stay safe, stay informed and stay connected. Access resources before, during and after wildfires.

Find evacuation information in your area

Check with your county Sheriff’s Office or Emergency Manager for local evacuation information updates.

Find your local Sheriff

Sign up for Emergency Alerts! Get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.

SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY ALERTS

County & Tribal Emergency Management Contacts

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Leve

Wildfire season has officially begun.  The information below is here to help you understand the most common terms and resources to keep you safe and informed. 

Public Alerts

By providing contact information, county residents can opt-in to receive critical emergency messaging via email, phone call and text during times of disasters. Important messages that could be relayed include notices to evacuate, shelter-in-place, shelter locations and other extremely important information.  Extreme heat related information would not be send via public alerts. 

Sign up, log into your account, or view current alerts HERE

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are expected.  Combined, this produces increased risk of fire danger.  This warning does not mean a wildfire has started. 

What is a Public Service Power Shutoff?

A Public Service Power Shutoff is a safety measure designed to help protect communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might cause the electricity system to spark wildfires. If a PSPS becomes necessary, the utilities will work to inform their customers directly. Outages could last several hours or multiple days.  Find more information from PGE HERE. 

For individuals with a medical conditions that requires power, please contact your service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. 

A PSPS and wildfire specific emergency kit supply list has been attached to this email. 

Know the Evacuation Levels

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!

Evacuate now! Leave immediately! It is unsafe for you to stay in the area. This will be the last notice you receive until officials declare it is safe to return to the area.

Level 1: Be Ready

Be aware, prepare and stay informed. This is the time to prepare and be ready to evacuate. Older adults, people with special needs, or mobile property owners should take action early. Consider moving pets and livestock early.

Level 2: Be Set

Be ready to leave with little notice and relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. You will have limited time to gather necessary items and it may become unsafe to do so.

Level 3: GO!