A Message from Douglas County Emergency Manager Wayne Stinson

Hello Douglas County! I’m Wayne Stinson, Douglas County’s Emergency Manager. It’s time to take notice of the forecasted winter storm coming our way. Last February the snow storm caught us all by surprise and what I noticed most was the lack of overall preparedness by our residents. This storm system coming in has the potential to once again cause power outages and travel related issues. We are concerned by the lack of individual preparedness. As I have mentioned at every preparedness event I attend, there is just not enough Road Crews, Firefighters, Medics, Law Enforcement and other emergency response personnel to meet all the needs when wide spread emergencies / disasters occur. YOU must take responsibility for yourself, your family and your community. This incoming storm and last February’s snow storm are just mini events compared to what is going to happen when the Cascadia earthquake occurs. A disaster can happen anywhere you live or work. Once it happens it may take days or even weeks for responders to reach you, and you may have to go without food, water, or electricity. Build an emergency kit with two weeks supply of food, water and other necessary supplies. You need to “Be Ready” in your home, place of employment and as you travel. A little bit of forethought can make all the difference from just surviving to being safe and somewhat comfortable. There is no lack of information to assist you in getting ready. Visit www.ready.gov or Google “2 Weeks Ready”. Please keep informed about this storm and plan your travel accordingly. Share the forecast with those that may be traveling to Douglas County to visit during the Thanksgiving holiday. ODOT does a great job of keeping their Trip Check up to date and the Road Cams are very helpful. Please take some time for preparedness. Be safe and enjoy this upcoming holiday. - Wayne