Risks in our Community

Infectious Disease

History has shown us that normal viruses can mutate and have worldwide impact. As populations grow and world travel is the norm, the risk of spreading and or contracting infectious disease increases. Proper protocols, as well as education and awareness of normal hygiene and barriers can help stop the spread. Without these protocols we risk both epidemic and or pandemic spread of disease. The most common disease being Influenza (flu).

Protect Yourself & Your Family

Cover your cough
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often
Avoid droplets generated by coughing/sneezing
Stay home from work/school if you are sick

For more information, contact your local county health department or the Center for Disease Control.

Earthquake

Every day there are small earthquakes in Oregon, hardly felt by anyone. However, scientists believe a large earthquake (magnitude 9.0) is expected to occur at some point in the future.

Samaritan has implemented building codes for all new construction, analysis of and retrofitting of existing buildings is being conducted, and education is occurring in many venues throughout the community. Community Emergency Response Teams are being developed to train citizens as volunteer rescuers during disaster events.

To become involved or learn more, contact your county emergency management office.

Tsunami

Tsunamis are caused by earthquakes causing a disturbance in a tidal wave. The ocean will pull back into itself, exposing coastline that hasn’t been seen before. The wall of water will rise from 30 to 60 plus feet tall and will travel inland, flooding and destroying everything in its path.

Much of the Oregon coast lies in a tsunami zone. The coastal communities have developed tsunami evacuation routes, sirens, warning systems and signs. As you travel the coast, look for these areas and know where you would go to evacuate.

Flood

Flooding occurs frequently in Oregon between November and April. The seasonal rains and melting snow packs cause water systems to reach capacity quickly and push streams and rivers over their banks. It only takes six inches of moving water to sweep a vehicle off the road and into a flooded waterway. Downed power lines and other debris can be hidden by murky waters.

To help prepare yourself and your family, monitor National Weather Service websites and the radio to track rising stream levels and take alternate travel routes if your regular route is prone to flooding.

Winter Storm

Counties west of the Cascade Mountains are susceptible to the impacts of rain, snow, freezing temperatures and winds that accompany winter storms. At least one of these weather events occurs every year and has resulted in power outages, communication disruption or damage to roads and buildings in our community.

Winter storms are predicted by the National Weather Service. As these conditions are identified, people should pay attention to the local news station and apply caution when traveling.