Wind Storm Exercise

For Immediate Release: Monday, May 09, 2011

Washington County Agencies Practice Tuesday for Natural Disaster

On Tuesday, May 10th, agencies in Washington County will participate in an emergency exercise from 9 a.m. until mid-afternoon in response to a severe windstorm scenario. The drill will test public agencies' ability to coordinate resources and effectively communicate when the demand for emergency response will exceed normal levels.

In addition to public safety players, area hospitals, the Red Cross and a senior housing facility will participate. Washington County will also activate its emergency operations center and coordinate with city, special district, state and federal agencies.

Severe weather can occur at any time throughout the year. The public is encouraged to learn more about preparing for wind storms and other natural disasters by visiting these web sites:

• http://www.take5tosurvive.com/
• http://www.ocem.org/
• http://governor.oregon.gov/OMD/OEM/
• http://www.fema.gov/

Note to News Organizations:
While specific details of the drill will be embargoed until early Tuesday morning, media can expect to hear some exercise-related radio traffic beginning around 9 a.m., May 10. Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue will serve as a point of contact for a field exercise in Beaverton where media can obtain audio and visual background between 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Contact:
Cassandra Ulven, Government Affairs Officer, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, (503) 259-1513, [email protected]

Media Contact: