http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?fid4ct=14058 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 23:37:21 EST Thu, 16 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST http://backend.userland.com/rss RapidFeeds v0.1 -- http://www.rapidfeeds.com Hoos Ready at the University of Virginia en http://www.itc.virginia.edu/pubs/uva-images/images1/img0002.jpg http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?fid4ct=14058 246 364 Hoos Ready is launching a student initiated course this spring: INST 257: Survival Skills: Emergency Preparedness and Response. The course will discuss topics such as Amateur Radio, CPR, AED, Disaster Preparedness, Fire Safety, Light Search and Rescue, Regional Emergency Planning, and Terrorism. Participants in this course will explore personal, regional, and national emergency management concepts and skills; building a solid understanding and practical, tangible skills to manage their response and to assist in response and recovery activities should a critical incident occur. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and community emergency response team (CERT) certifications. The class is on Mondays from 5:00-6:30. The class is worth two credits. Sign up today! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2819090 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2819090 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST In 2007, fire killed more people in the United States than in all natural disasters combined, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. You can take these simple steps to increase your fire safety: * Plan and Practice: Have a fire escape plan so you know how to get out and where to go. Practice your plan. * Detect: Have a smoke detector on each level of the building where you live and one in each sleeping area. Conduct a test on a monthly basis. * Extinguish (if trained): Have a fire extinguisher in each kitchen area and one on each level of your living area. Know how to use the extinguisher. * Keep Clear: Know where all your exits are located and keep these areas clear. * Keep Away: Keep combustibles away from all heating sources (e.g., stoves, fireplaces, furnaces, hot water heaters, etc.). For more, see the U.Va. Office of Environmental Health & Safety and Housing Division. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2819089 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2819089 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:52:00 EST Hoos Ready is having its first Qdoba Night safety fundraiser! Please support Hoos Ready and eat at Qdoba on November 6th! Come after class! Come after work! Come support safety at UVA! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2515164 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2515164 Sun, 19 Oct 2008 20:52:00 EST Hoos Ready is reviewing applications for its leadership team! The Membership, Programs, and Publicity committees are all reviewing applications. Please apply. It is a great way to be involved in a special status organization. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478773 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478773 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST It’s Cyber Security Month and the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Hoos Ready remind you to take care of your cyber self as well as your physical self. Make sure you: * Set up and maintain your electronic devices in a secure manner * Protect yourself from identity theft * Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing * Don’t fall for phishing scams * Use discretion on social networking sites (PDF) For more information visit: * ITSecurity at U.Va.: http://www.itc.virginia.edu/security/ * Who’s Watching? Charlottesville: http://whoswatchingcharlottesville.org/ * Stay Safe Online: http://www.staysafeonline.org/ http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478771 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478771 Sat, 11 Oct 2008 21:00:00 EST Emergency preparedness isn't only about big events like tornadoes, hurricanes or wildfires. Everyone in our community can take steps to avoid personal incidents such as accidents, injuries and crimes. You can help yourself and others by being alert to your surroundings and actions of other people. Always call 911 for help if your safety is threatened. Your vigilant attention to what's going on around you enhances the security and safety of Grounds, while preserving its openness and accessibility. Consider these tips: Residence Hall Safety * Never allow strangers to follow you into the building. If strangers are observed in the residence hall, notify University Police immediately. * Never prop open outer doors or leave room doors open. * Secure doors and windows prior to leaving. * Call 911 if you see someone in the building who does not belong. Grounds Safety * Be aware of your surroundings. * Avoid isolated areas. * Avoid walking alone at night. Use the Safe Ride service or walk with friends. * Use the lighted pathway system. * Tell a friend where you are going and when you will return. * Notify police immediately of suspicious or criminal activity. If You Must Walk Alone... * Stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings. * Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, find a secure area in a building and call for help. * Use the Blue Light Phones located throughout the Grounds. * Know the Grounds. Find out what buildings are open late where you can summon help if needed. * Vary your route and schedule. * Avoid walking or jogging at night, but if you can't, wear reflective clothing. * Headphones impair your ability to notice surroundings. Use them only when you feel secure. If you have questions about safety at the University, please contact the U.Va. Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit or contact Officer Becky Campbell at 434-924-8845 or crc7u@virginia.edu. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478770 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478770 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 21:00:00 EST Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count. If you are a new or returning student, faculty or staff member, everyone can take actions now to minimize the impact of an emergency situation. Take the following steps to prepare for an emergency: * Get a Kit – Gather personal emergency supplies in a portable container and include unique items you need, such as prescription medication. Visit: http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html * Make a Plan – Plan in advance how you will contact your family, how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations. Visit: http://www.ready.gov/america/_downloads/familyemergencyplan.pdf hhttp://www.ice4safety.com * Be Informed – Learn about the potential emergencies that could happen in the UVA community, the appropriate way to respond to them, and where to get up-to-date information. Visit: http://www.virginia.edu/emergency/EmergencyProcedures0805.pdf http://www.virginia.edu/emergency/plan.html Right now, you can: * Sign up for UVa Alerts – https://www.virginia.edu/uvaalerts/ * Join HOOS Ready – www.hoosready.org Learn more during the Emergency Preparedness Month outreach activities in September! http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478769 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478769 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:00:00 EST The dramatic weather patterns across the country this summer remind us of the devastation that can be caused by natural events. Wildfires sparked by lightning, torrential rains, tornadoes, extreme heat and drought are reported in the news almost daily. These reports emphasize that nature is unpredictable. While we cannot always predict when an event may occur, it is likely that each community will be impacted at some time. One rapid outcome of many of these scenarios is flooding. While flooding is not a common occurrence, Charlottesville and surrounding counties have experienced flooding in the past. Typically this area is most prone to flash flooding — particularly after experiencing extraordinarily dry periods when the ground is unable to absorb heavy rains. Following are several things you should know to help mitigate the potential damage of flooding. Know What to Expect * Know your area's flood risk — if unsure, call your local Red Cross chapter, emergency management office, or planning and zoning department. * If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood. * Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information. * Understand the difference between flash flood and flood watches and warnings: A flood can take form several hours to several days to develop 1. A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area. 2. A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. Flash floods can take from only a few minutes to a few hours to develop 1. A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area. 2. A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon. Once flooding has started, here are some things to do to keep your family safe: * Fill bathtubs, sinks and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated. * Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information. * If local authorities instruct you to do so, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve. * If told to evacuate your home, do so immediately. * If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, the attic, or if necessary, the roof. * Floodwaters may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other disease-spreading substances. If you've come in contact with floodwaters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water. * Avoid walking through floodwaters. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. * Don't drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and take a different route. A car can be carried away by just two feet of flood water. * Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. * Animals lose their homes in floods, too. Be aware that even domesticated animals may be confused and unpredictable in a flood situation. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478768 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478768 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST June 1st was the beginning of hurricane season, which will last until November. As June approached, the first named hurricane of 2008 was reported and dubbed Arthur. Although it did not materialize into a significant storm, forecasters have predicted an active season in 2008. The nation has a new understanding of the devastation a hurricane can cause after watching coastal areas in the south deal with Katrina and Rita. Over the last few years Virginia has seen the effects of Floyd, Isabel and Gaston.These storms remind us that inland areas can be hit with significant winds and damaging rains, resulting in loss of power and flooding. Many do not think about preparing in advance. Instead, they rationalize that preparation can begin once the storm appears to be headed in their direction. In truth, preparing ahead for a hurricane season can also prepare you for other emergencies. Start to build your kit today, and, if you are prepared, share this information with your family, neighbors and friends. Remember, we cannot count on others for our response; Emergency Preparedness is everybody’s job! Create a basic supply kit, make sure you have a communications plan, and store items your family will need if there is no power or deliveries to the area are delayed. Look at the recommended checklists and find out more about hurricanes and emergency preparedness by visiting these two sites: www.ready.gov www.HurricaneSafety.org http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478767 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478767 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST Last month we asked everyone to create an emergency communications plan. This tip builds on that plan by introducing ICE, which stands for In Case of Emergency. Summer is here and many will be traveling. With travel opportunities come the reality that you and your family may be separated. If you or a family member is involved in an accident, it may be important to be contacted rapidly. This is especially true if healthcare workers need a medical history to aid in treatment. By including numbers on your cell phone designating ICE Dr., ICE Mom or ICE Dad, family or your designated emergency contact can be located more readily. Visit http://www.ice4safety.com to learn more about this important resource. http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478766 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2478766 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:54:00 EST You and your family may not be together when a disaster strikes. It is important to create a communications plan. Identify an out-of-state contact – (it may be easier to make a long distance telephone call than a local call). Verify the out-of-state contact is willing and able to receive information and communicate among separated family members. Create and carry on your person a list of all important family contact information including home phones, business phones, cell phones, e-mail addresses. Be sure every member of the family has a prepaid phone calling card and/or coins to use to call the emergency contact. Be patient. Phone lines may be down or take longer to answer. If you have a family member at a college or university, expect to receive the most current information from that institution’s Web site. List the Web site in your contacts and visit it for the latest information. During an event: Once you have reached your emergency contact, stay off the phone except to report an emergency. If an emergency notification is broadcast, follow all instructions. For more information see http://www.ready.gov/america/_downloads/familyemergencyplan.pdf http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2475363 http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/?iid4ct=2475363 Sun, 11 May 2008 02:00:00 EST