General Preparedness

Staying informed is the first pillar of disaster preparedness. Being well informed about what is happening and what your options are can lead to better decision making and outcomes. Getting information early can be the difference between avoiding a disaster or getting caught in the middle of it.

• Find a glossary of terms used during emergency situations(PDF, 142KB) so you know what to expect during an emergency communication.
• Learn more about how to stay informed and understand Emergency Alert terminology(PDF, 232KB).
• Explore Outdoor Warning Siren information to find out more.

Emergency Notifications

Boulder County and the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office share important updates through Everbridge (BOCO Alert) and ReachWell notification platforms. Both deliver the same information, with ReachWell offering built-in language translation for broader accessibility.  Make sure you are signed up and receiving real-time alerts.

• Everbridge (BOCO Alert): BOCOAlert.org
  Receive alerts by text, phone call, or email. You can register multiple addresses and phone numbers. 
  • If you block or filter messages, add 303-441-1400 to your contacts and name it “Emergency Alert.” Alerts may not ring or appear as texts if your phone is on silent or “Do Not Disturb.” To ensure you receive alerts, either turn off these modes or adjust your phone’s settings to allow messages and calls from 303-441-1400 to come through, following your phone’s instructions.
• ReachWell: ReachWellApp.com
  • Get Boulder County alerts with built-in language translation.  The app sends alerts directly to your device; just make sure app notifications are enabled.

Other Resources

• BVSD.org – Visit the website for information on the SchoolMessenger app and to receive important Boulder Valley School District notifications.
• Weather.gov/NWR - Access NOAA Weather Radio for continuous weather updates, watches, warnings, and other emergency alerts.
• XcelEnergy.com – Log in to your account to sign up for outage and service alerts.
• BoulderCounty.gov/Safety/Fire – Find fire safety tips, restrictions, and local updates.
• AirNow.gov –Check local air quality conditions and health advisories.

Creating a Disaster Preparedness Plan

1. Develop a disaster plan with your family and close contacts.
2. Determine a designated meeting point if separated, decide on a safe location in case of evacuation, and assign responsibilities to each person.
3. Take into account specific requirements: Children, Older Adults, Individuals with Access and Functional Needs, Pets and Animals
4. Formulate a clear evacuation strategy: familiarize yourself with various routes within your area, practice the plan with your family, explore alternative transportation options in your community, and gather necessary supplies for assistance if self-evacuation is not possible.

For detailed insights on planning logistics, catering to specific needs, and refining your evacuation plan visit Homeland Security's Ready webpage and the Humane Society of Boulder Valley's Pet Preparedness webpage.

Access and Functional Needs general preparedness is going to look different for everyone but always involves whole community inclusion. With this in mind, there are certain components to consider for planning such as;

• Creating a plan involving family, caregivers, and close contacts by utilizing communication cards(PDF, 757KB)
• Determining a designated meeting point in case of evacuation
• Make sure your plan accounts for your specific needs such as transportation
• Extra time to mobilize before receiving an actual order of evacuationWheelchair with a black back and a hint of sunlight

Access and Functional needs for more information and resources for planning.

In addition to planning for access and functional needs, caregivers need to be involved and aware of the planning process. The top three tips for caregivers to consider are:

• Identify Barriers and Risks
• Learn and Connect
• Make a Plan

Visit Ready.gov and Center for Inclusive Design and Engineering for additional information and resources for planning.

A grab list is a preparedness essential and ensures you're equipped for the unexpected.

Here are a few grab list tips that can help you get started:

• List your items in order of priority
• Encourage other household members to create their own grab list
• Designate a trusted person with a copy of your grab list and a key to your home in case you are not home
• Keep your grab list in in a location that is easily accessible and memorable during an evacuation

A versatile grab list can encompass daily necessities and important items like:

• Irreplaceable sentimental items
• Clothing and crucial document
• Medical supplies, medications, and other health-related necessities, tailored to individual needs
• Entertainment supplies to maintain a sense of normalcy during challenging times

For more information on how to build your grab list and what to include, visit our grab list template(PDF, 95KB).

Enhancing your disaster preparedness through additional training, such as First Aid or CPR, is a valuable investment that can significantly benefit both yourself and those around you. Equipping yourself with a range of first aid skills can be indispensable in a variety of situations, regardless of when or where they occur. Some of the techniques that can prove invaluable include:

1. Effectively treating burns, whether they result from a wildfire or a kitchen fire, ensuring the right response to different levels of severity.
2. Addressing wounds caused by slips, falls, accidents, or even unexpected encounters like being hit by hail, ensuring swift and appropriate care.
3. Mastery of tourniquet application, which can be crucial in scenarios ranging from animal attacks to car accidents or even public threat situations, helping to control bleeding and save lives.
4. Proficiency in performing CPR, a skill that can be pivotal in instances of drowning or heart attacks, potentially making a life-saving difference.

By acquiring these skills and expanding your knowledge base, you not only empower yourself to navigate emergencies more effectively but also contribute to a safer environment for all. The ability to respond confidently and competently to unexpected challenges is a testament to your commitment to preparedness and the well-being of both yourself and your community. Not only are there programs offered in Superior found on the main Disaster Preparedness page but you can also sign up for a class through the Red Cross today.

Utilities can become dangerous when impacted by a disaster. It is critical to learn important utility safety skills to prevent gas leaks, creation of possible explosions and fires, and water breaks. Life saving supplies such as fire extinguishers, back up batteries or solar charges can be beneficial to prepare yourself for when things go wrong.

Natural Gas can be dangerous as it causes a significant number of fires after disaster. It is essential to know how to shut it off, as it can be different from house to house. Contact your gas company to help guide you through the turn off procedures for your home. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and get everyone out of the house. Turn off the gas using the outside main valve, if you can, and call the gas company.

Electricity can ignite natural gas if it's leaking. Learn how to shut off the electricity and make sure everyone in your household knows how to as well. Locate the electrical circuit box and shut off all the individual circuits before shutting off the main circuit. For more information, visit Xcel Energy Wildfire Mitigation Program.

Water is one of the most precious resources during and after a disaster. Its important to know how to shut off the main water valve to the house if needed. Show everyone in your household where the main water valve is and have a identification tag for it. Keep the valve maintained and replace it if it becomes rusty or you are unable to close it off all the way. If there are cracked lines, shut it off and wait for it to be evaluated for safety. Any break in the line can lead to contamination, and as breaks are common in emergencies, the water may need to be flushed before it is drinkable again.

Fire extinguishers are a life safety tool to keep in your home. Show everyone where its kept and how to use it. Consider an ABC type fire extinguisher (for ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and live electrical equipment) at minimum. Contact your local fire department for information on training in how to use it. Also, watch Fire Extinguisher Safety on our video library.

Back up batteries, solar chargers, or a car adapter to be back-up power sources for your mobile device, tablets, or laptops are an essential part into your preparedness planning. Learn to utilize apps and digital tools to keep records of important documents, save helpful links, and save and/or identify your emergency contacts in your mobile devices. Your local provider may be able to offer a product designed to provide few hours of connectivity if the power goes out. Another great way to keep track of your treasured personal items such as your pet or your child's favorite toy, you can place a digital tracker to monitor is location in the event you get separated from it. For more information, visit Xcel Energy Public Safety Power Shutoffs.

Colorado Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division

For more information or question, visit CDPHE.

Contact Information:
Phone: 303-692-3320
Email: comments.hmwmd@state.co.us

Check out Smoke 101 for science behind wildfire and prescribed fire smoke.

How to Mitigate Post-Fire Smoke Impacts in Your Home

Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences is a partnership of CU Boulder and NOAA. The organization has compiled a resource of post-wildfire indoor air quality facts and solutions to mitigate smoke impacts in your home or business.

Smoke Mitigation for Homeowners - A Quick Review.
Trustee Tim Howard interviews resident Shawn Bisaillon regarding smoke mitigation in homes impacted by the Marshall Fire. To view the interview, visit the YouTube video Smoke Mitigation for Homeowners - Marshall Fire.

If you want to further your involvement in disaster planning and preparedness, there are several meaningful ways to make a lasting impact:

Volunteer for Your Community: Joining your community's efforts as a volunteer can provide invaluable support during times of crisis. By offering your time, skills, and dedication, you become an essential part of the network that ensures safety and response coordination. Consider signing up for an on-call volunteer list, where your willingness to step in during emergencies can truly make a difference: Sign up to volunteer for a Town of Superior disaster event and to help one of our neighboring municipalities.

Consider Donating: Financial contributions to organizations focused on disaster relief and preparedness can play a pivotal role in bolstering resources for response and recovery efforts. Your donation, no matter the size, can help procure supplies, offer training programs, and enhance overall readiness in your community.

Educate Others with Beneficial Skills: Sharing your knowledge about essential skills for disaster preparedness is a powerful way to empower those around you. Organize workshops or seminars that teach basic first aid, CPR techniques, and other crucial abilities. By educating others, you create a ripple effect of preparedness that extends beyond your immediate reach.

Embracing these avenues not only enhances your personal readiness but also contributes to a collective resilience that is vital in times of uncertainty. Your involvement can inspire a culture of preparedness within our community, fostering a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

January & February 

Winter Season Readiness: Snow, High Wind, and Red Flag Days

Winter season is upon us and can come a mix of challenging weather conditions- snowstorms, strong winds, and Red Flag Warning days caused by dry temperatures. Some weather events may last for only a few hours, while others can continue for several days. Being prepared ahead of time can help keep you, your family, and neighbors safe. 

Winter storms and high winds can lead to potential power outages, heating disruptions, road closures, and interruptions to communication services. During warm, dry, and windy winter days, the National Weather Service may issue a Red Flag Warning, indicating extreme fire danger.  Visit Boulder County Office of Disaster Management for current updates on all weather alerts.

Snow & Winter Tips to Stay Safe:

• Avoid travel during heavy snowfall when possible.
• If you must drive, go slowly and keep a go bag kit in your vehicle.
• Have a plan for staying warm if you lose power or heat.
• Charge devices ahead of storms and have a back way to receive alerts.
• Bring pets indoors and make sure they have food, water and warmth.
• Use generators, grills, and heaters outdoors only. 

Sign up for emergency alerts at BoCo Alert to receive current notifications.

High Wind Safety Tips:

• Secure outdoor items such as trash cans, patio furniture, and decorations.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Park vehicles away from trees if possible.
• Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in high-profile vehicles.
• Be aware of driving conditions due to debris in the roads, downed limbs, power lines, and traffic signals out of commision.

Visit XcelEnergy for information on public safety, including how to report downed power lines, power outages, and other utility concerns.

Red Flag Warning Safety Tips:

•  Avoid outdoor activities that may cause a spark or flame (no campfires, charcoal grills, slash burns, outdoor welding, parking in high grass, etc.
•  Do not throw cigarettes or matches outdoors.
• Stay alert to local fire restrictions and evacuation notices.

Stay up to date on local fire restrictions and National Weather Service on Red Flag Warning information.

Stay alert and stay safe!