• Natick Labs WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013:

We want to thank the 24 MRC volunteers from Acton, Framingham, Hopkinton, Marlborough, Natick, Wayland and Woburn who participated in The concept was evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation.

This drill was real time, real response and provided a vital snapshot of local readiness. There were amazing moulage experts who made us up with mock injuries for the drill. We want to thank are the Framingham Board of Health who coordinated the MRC‘s involvement in the drill and Natick Labs, Fire, Police, EMS and Hospitals for involving the MRC in this very important exercise.

• Woburn Relay for Life Saturday May 18th: 2:00pm-9:00pm

Set up is at 2PM Saturday and we can use your assistance to set up tables, chairs and hang signs on the field.

Help is also needed at registration which will begin shortly after 2pm.

At 5pm, after the opening ceremonies we could use a few volunteers to help staff the food tent and naturally Members are also needed to staff the MRC booth.

We can also use Medical Volunteers working for Dave Hunt, EMT, to staff the event in shifts and thru the night. Medical may stay as long as they want but if you can only cover a certain time it is also appreciated.

We encourage all MRC members to get involved. I have done this event since it started 7 years ago and it is a lot of fun. The only skill needed is your willingness to help a great cause.

• Medical aid stations for Bicycles Battling Cancer in June 9th,2013
We need volunteers to support Route Monitors and to set up and staff There are few changes in the start/finish location, but the route remains a central Massachusetts loop ride with many roads the same as last year. We will do our main setup from the Hillside School in Marlborough.
For a link to the route map click here: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1671655
We need support for Route monitors, Medical aid-station setup (Lancaster, Hollis NH, Groton MA, and Southborough MA for 4 stops in 2013), and at the start/finish for morning or afternoon shifts. More information to come, but let us know if you can help with Bicycles Battling Cancer 2013 contact Aaron Ladd # 508-270-4665 aaron.ladd@cancer.org

• Marathon Recovery Resources to the community:

Behavioral Health & Crisis Counseling
On 4/29/13, Riverside Crisis Counseling instituted a toll-free hotline [855-279-0632, M-F, 8am-6pm] for organizations and businesses outside of Boston that are seeking access to crisis counseling and support resources.

Outreach to 211
The Disaster Distress Hotline refers callers needing additional support to their state’s 211. To ensure that MA 211 has access to the resources being coordinated by DPH and DMH, EPB staff contacted and has provided information to MA 211 to be included in their resource directory.


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
Please check out the web-page for upcoming MRC events
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• VOLUNTEER SHORTAGE FOR WMD DRILL ON 5/9!
THIRTY CASULATIES NEEDED
LUNCH PROVIDED

The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

Participants should where clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather and swimsuit, expect to get wet at two locations through MDUs and in the event we Moulage - it stains clothing.
Please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

• We need volunteers to support Route Monitors and to set up and staff Medical aid stations for Bicycles Battling Cancer in June 9th,2013

There are few changes in the start/finish location, but the route remains a central Massachusetts loop ride with many roads the same as last year. We will do our main setup from the Hillside School in Marlborough.

For a link to the route map click here:
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1671655
We need support for Route monitors, Medical aid-station setup (Lancaster, Hollis NH, Groton MA, and Southborough MA for 4 stops in 2013), and at the start/finish for morning or afternoon shifts. More information to come, but let us know if you can help with Bicycles Battling Cancer 2013 contact Aaron Ladd # 508-270-4665 aaron.ladd@cancer.org

• Marathon Recovery Resources to the community:
Riverside Crisis Counseling
On 4/29/13, Riverside Crisis Counseling instituted a toll-free hotline [855-279-0632, M-F, 8am-6pm] for organizations and businesses outside of Boston that are seeking access to crisis counseling and support resources. In its first week Riverside reported four (4) calls to the hotline. Volume is anticipated to increase once public messaging for Marathon recovery resources is released.

Outreach to 211
The Disaster Distress Hotline refers callers needing additional support to their state’s 211. To ensure that MA 211 has access to the resources being coordinated by DPH and DMH, EPB staff contacted and has provided information to MA 211 to be included in their resource directory.

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
Please check out the web-page for upcoming MRC events
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

While the Boston Marathon is primarily a Boston/Metrowest event; runners, volunteers, and spectators gather from across the state, nation and world to participate in this historic occasion. While many from the Boston area were either directly injured or are suffering from effects in the aftermath of the traumatic events, there are also individuals and groups from across the state that were impacted.

Recognizing this, I am in touch to let you know that there are a variety of crisis counseling and mental health support resources available to individuals and groups affected by the Marathon bombings and subsequent events. What follows are some suggestions for telephone, online, and in-person support options. For the present requests and questions on mental health and crisis counseling are being directed to the Boston Medical Intelligence Center (MIC) at mic@bostonems.org or 617-343-6920. Planning is underway for transitional and long term support and I will be in touch if and when any points of contact are changed. We will continue to gather information on resources, and will provide updates as available.

Telephone Support
SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline 800-985-5990 can provide immediate counseling to anyone who needs help in dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy. This free, confidential, and multilingual crisis support service is also available via SMS (text TalkWithUs to 66746) to anyone experiencing psychological distress as a result of this event.

City of Boston Healthline 617-534-5050 has counselors available 9AM-5PM from 4/22-4/26.

Online Support
American Red Cross’s Disaster Mental Health Services
http://www.redcross.org/find-help/disaster-recovery/recovering-emotionally

SAMHSA Disaster Distress
http://www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov/

Tips for Survivors of a Traumatic Event: Managing Your Stress - This tip sheet outlines the common signs of stress after a disaster and provides stress reduction strategies: http://store.samhsa.gov/shin/content/NMH05-0209R/NMH05-0209R.pdf
Dealing with the Effects of Trauma: A Self-Help Guide - This guide provides more in-depth information on recovering from a traumatic event and is geared toward those whose reactions may be lingering: http://store.samhsa.gov/product/Dealing-with-the-Effects-of-Trauma-A-Self-Help-Guide/SMA-3717
Tips for Talking with and Helping Children and Youth Cope after a Disaster or Traumatic Event - This fact sheet helps parents and teachers recognize and address problems in children and teens affected by the trauma after an act of violence. It describes signs of stress reactions that are common in young trauma survivors at different ages, and offers tips on how to help: http://store.samhsa.gov/product/Tips-for-Talking-to-Children-and-Youth-After-Traumatic-Events-A-Guide-for-Parents-and-Educators/KEN01-0093R
Tips for Managing and Preventing Stress: A Guide for Emergency Response and Public Safety Workers - This fact sheet gives organizational and individual tips for stress prevention and management for emergency response workers and public safety workers. It describes normal reactions to a disaster, signs of the need for stress management, and ways to handle stress: http://www.nd.gov/dhs/info/pubs/docs/mhsa/disaster-tips-managing-stress-for-emergency-response-public-safety-workers.pdf

In-Person Counseling Support
There are many in-person resources available. Individuals are encouraged to check with their employer’s Employee Assistance Program and/or personal physician for a referral to a behavioral health clinician. In many cases health insurers, including MassHealth, provide coverage for mental health support services.

In addition, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is working with the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, the American Red Cross, the Boston Public Health Commission, and others to coordinate support and assistance to any organization that requests it. A spectrum of resources are available including local, regional, and federal teams of crisis counseling and mental health professionals that have been mobilized to support and assist organizations or entities affected by the bombings and subsequent law enforcement actions.

• First and for most we want to thank the Region 4A MRC volunteers who staffed the Boston Marathon Medical Sweep Teams; your courage and caring will be remembered for generations

• Thank you to the Region 4A volunteers who volunteered for the Boston Marathon at the Start and along the route

• A Safe Haven: Reducing the Risk of Violence at Community Crisis Response presented by: Ippolit Matjucha, MD Thursday April 25th, 7-9PM Walpole Town Hall135 School Street

• Tuesday April 23rd 7-8pm Medical Reserve Corps Introduction to HOSA and Eagle Scouts Framingham Union Hospital Lincoln Street Medical Arts Building Framingham, MA

• Wednesday April 24th from 6:30-7:00 pm Family Preparedness 7:00-9:00pm Shelter Simulation Framingham Town Hall 150 Concord Street Blummer Room

• VOLUNTEER SHORTAGE FOR WMD DRILL ON 5/9!
FIFTY CASULATIES NEEDED
LUNCH PROVIDED

The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

Participants should where clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather and swimsuit, expect to get wet at two locations through MDUs and in the event we Moulage - it stains clothing.
Please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

Most of all thank you all for volunteering for the Medical Reserve Corps and for protecting the health of our communities!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

To: All Volunteers



click above preview to load PDF

Hello Everyone,

First of all we want to thank the MRC volunteers that staffed the Medical Sweep Teams at the Boston Marathon finish line today and I want to report that all MRC staffing the medical sweep teams are safe and un-injured.

The medical volunteers showed great courage in a very stressful situation and took such good care of the victims of the explosions today.

Shortly after the news broke 100’s Region 4A MRC volunteers made themselves available to help if there was a need.

At this time there is no need for MRC support and fortunately the incident can be managed by Hospitals and EMS.

Thank you to all of the MRC volunteers for your dedication to protect the health of the Boston Marathon Runners, spectators and marathon staff.

The families affected by this terrible event are in our thoughts during this very difficult time.

MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• VOLUNTEER SHORTAGE FOR WMD DRILL ON 5/9!
FIFTY CASULATIES NEEDED
LUNCH PROVIDED

The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

Participants should where clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather and swimsuit, expect to get wet at two locations through MDUs and in the event we Moulage - it stains clothing.
Please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

• Ashland Library April 23rd 7-9pm An educational program Forks over knives that examines the claim that most, if not all, common degenerative diseases can be controlled, or even reversed, by adopting a whole foods, plant-based diet.

Special Guests:
• Lisa Beaudin, Director of Nutrition for the Ashland Public Schools
• Peg and John Grimes of Transition Ashland, an effort to strengthen local economy and community

• Framingham Town Hall on April 24th from 6:30-7:00pm Family Preparedness class: we will be raffling off a 72 hour kit. Followed by: Sheltering Simulation class from 7-9pm snacks will be served. Please register on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

VOLUNTEER SHORTAGE FOR WMD DRILL ON 5/9!
FIFTY CASULATIES NEEDED
LUNCH PROVIDED

The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

Participants should where clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather and swimsuit, expect to get wet at two locations through MDUs and in the event we Moulage - it stains clothing.
Please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

• April 10th from 7-9pm at the Walpole Town Hall 135 School Street
Medical Marijuana: What are the concerns?
Presented by Deputy Chief John Carmichael
To register please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

• April 11th from 3:30-9:00pm Hampshire County Functional Shelter Drill at Umass Amherst
To register please sign up on the MRC web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

• Floods are one of the most common hazards across the United States; anywhere it rains, it can flood. While spring brings the promise of warm weather, it also brings an increased flood risk due to a variety of conditions like severe weather, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt. To get more information go to: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/

• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). Ideally, fifty (50) volunteers are needed to adequately and appropriately provide an exercise in real time response. The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

Participants should where clothing appropriate for the anticipated weather and swimsuit, expect to get wet at two locations through MDUs and in the event we Moulage - it stains clothing.
If you can participate please sign up on the Training Section of the web-page.

• Floods are one of the most common hazards across the United States; anywhere it rains, it can flood. While spring brings the promise of warm weather, it also brings an increased flood risk due to a variety of conditions like severe weather, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt. To get more information go to: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/

• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address

mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• Field Triage class: Monday March 25th from 6-8pm at the Holliston Police Department 550 Washington Street in the Training room

• Ashland MRC would like to extend an invitation to the Region to attend their Quarterly meeting on March 19th from 7pm-9pm at the Ashland Town Hall 101 Main Street. Transition Ashland will present their mandate to provide information and organization resources to the citizens of Ashland relating to Sustainability, resilience and community (neighbors helping neighbor).

• Floods are one of the most common hazards across the United States; anywhere it rains, it can flood. While spring brings the promise of warm weather, it also brings an increased flood risk due to a variety of conditions like severe weather, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt. To get more information go to: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/

• To learn Hands Only CPR go to: http://www.youtube.com/HandsOnlyCPR

• The American Cancer Society Bicycles Battling Cancer 2013 is looking for Aid Station volunteers on June 9, to volunteer for this event click on link below: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/CommunityFundraisingPages/CFPFY10NewEngland?sid=2001&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=46919

• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.

• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

The Natick Labs Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) is requesting “casualties” for a WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) Drill on May 9th, 2013 at 0700 (7 am). Ideally, fifty (50) volunteers are needed to adequately and appropriately provide an exercise in real time response. The concept is evacuation from the Natick Labs Installation, to Leonard Morse Hospital and then through Framingham Union and return to the Installation for release at approximately 1400 (2pm).

This drill is real time, real response and provides a vital snapshot of local readiness. There is a moulage expert (mock injuries) who will be assigned to “prepare” all volunteers for this drill. Please consider participating in this very important exercise.

We would like to thank Jonathan O’Dell for presenting: How to provide services to deaf and hard of hearing citizens during a disaster on March 5th from 6:00-9:00 pm at Framingham Town Hall. We had 20 volunteers attend the presentation; they enjoyed the presentation, food and the opportunity to meet MRC members from other communities.

We have several MRC training programs coming up this spring to see the complete list please go to our the training web-page

Winter safety tips: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/winter-weather.html

The American Cancer Society Bicycles Battling Cancer 2013 is looking for Aid Station volunteers on June 9, to volunteer for this event click on link below: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/CommunityFundraisingPages/CFPFY10NewEngland?sid=2001&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=46919

Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.


Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

The NWS provided a final forecast update this morning. The brief notes that heavy, wet snow will continue across CT, RI and MA, with additional accumulations up to 3” in some areas, until ending from NW to SE by about 8:00 pm tonight. Damage reports of flooding/erosion impacts on coastal MA communities are anticipated, related to the morning high tide. A PDF of the brief is attached, and summarized below.

• Snow: Tapers to snow showers through the day and shifts to the south and east with time - Still some minor accumulations, but bulk of snow was overnight (coating to 3 inches or so additional accumulation expected, mostly this morning). May be just a few snow showers (particularly southeast MA) by evening commute.
• Winds: 50–65 mph gusts continue into the evening over Cape/Islands; 40–50 mph gusts continue into the evening over the interior; 45–55 kt gusts continue into the overnight over waters
• Power Outages: A few more outages possible until snow subsides, less likely toward late day
• Coastal Flooding: Widespread moderate to pockets of major this morning; some minor-moderate flooding with this evening’s high tide; surge up to 3 ft along with 25-30 ft seas not far offshore. These pounding seas will add to the damage potential.

State, local, and NGO agencies report relatively low numbers of power outages and shelter occupancy rates; no significant adverse impacts on the healthcare or public health systems have been reported. No requests for federal public health/medical services support to local, state or tribal governments are anticipated.

FORECAST UPDATES
MEMA participated in a 3 PM conference call with the National Weather Service in Taunton (NWS). The NWS provided the following forecast updates:

Snow will be moderate to heavy during the overnight. The accumulating snow will end around 9 AM tomorrow, but light snow may last into the afternoon. An additional 6” to 8” may fall across the Boston to Providence corridor and the southern Rte. 495 area. Total accumulations for the storm (from Wednesday through Friday) may reach 10” to 14” in these areas. The updated snowfall projection map from the NWS in Taunton may be seen at: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/box/StormTotalSnow/index.php . The updated snowfall projection map from the NWS in Albany may be seen at: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/aly/Past/Snow_PNS/WSW.htm . The snow that will fall tonight and into tomorrow will be heavy and wet.

Strong northerly winds will continue into Friday afternoon. Over the Cape and Islands, gusts may reach 55 to 65 MPH. Over the eastern coastal plains, winds will gust from 40 to 55 MPH. Over interior portions of eastern and central Massachusetts, the winds will gust to 40 MPH.

As a result of the strong winds and heavy wet snow that will fall through the night (with up to 8” of additional snow in some areas), there is an increased threat of power outages tonight and tomorrow morning. The NWS forecasts that power outages may be “numerous” in the eastern and southeastern areas of the state, particularly those areas that will receive another 6” to 8” of snow.

Coastal Flooding: tonight’s high tide is between 7 and 8:30 PM along the east coast. Coastal flooding is expected to be minor to moderate, and generally slightly less than was experienced this morning. The surge will be 2.5 to 3’ with 25’ to 30’ waves just offshore.

Coastal Flooding: tomorrow morning’s high tide is between 7:30 and 9 AM. Coastal flooding is expected to be moderate to major. The storm tide will be another 1’ over the storm tide this morning, and the waves off shore will be 8’ to 10’ higher than this morning. The overall effect of a higher storm tide and stronger winds will result in impacts that are greater than this morning and will be similar to, or greater than was experienced during the February blizzard. More particularly, the Salisbury/Newbury/Plum Island areas will experience moderate to major flooding. From Gloucester through Boston to Quincy will experience moderate flooding. From Hull to Sandwich, the flooding will be moderate to major. Additionally, there will be severe beach erosion along the entire east coastline including the outer Cape and eastern shores of Nantucket.

Coastal Flooding: Friday night’s high tide will bring minor coastal flooding with pockets of major coastal flooding and should be similar to the high tide this evening.

STATE ACTIONS
The State EOC in Framingham is activated at Level III (Partial). It will remain at Level III through the night, and will increase to Level II tomorrow at 4 AM. During the overnight, the staff in the EOC will monitor power outages and respond to outage related resource requests.

In anticipation of significant coastal flooding tomorrow morning, resources to assist in emergency evacuations will be deployed into coastal communities by 5 AM tomorrow morning. Using a plan similar to the one used today, National Guard heavy trucks will deploy into the Salisbury/Newburyport area on the North Shore, and into a number of coastal communities on the South Shore. National Guard trucks also will be at four staging areas. The National Guard resources will be augmented by State Police tracked vehicles (SUSV’s) and boats on trailers, and Environmental Police boats, which will be at staging areas on the North and South Shores.

Six Rapid Assessment Teams comprised of building inspectors from the Department of Public Safety, teamed with transportation assets from the National Guard, will be ready to deploy into coastal communities after tomorrow morning’s high tide.

SHELTER OPERATIONS
Shelters remain open in Plymouth (regional Red Cross shelter), Scituate, and Salisbury (regional Red Cross shelter). A warming center also is open in Duxbury. Communities and the Red Cross are being advised of the potential for an increase in power outages and the forecast for moderate to major flooding tomorrow morning as these factors may cause an increase in shelter populations.

IMPACTS FROM TODAY’S FLOODING
The impacts from today’s flooding are consistent with minor to moderate coastal flooding. Many coastal communities experienced splash over and flooding of low lying areas. This caused numerous road closures and water around structures near the coastline and in low lying areas. However, the damage to most structures is relatively minor in nature. On Plum Island, dune erosion has jeopardized two homes and there is a significant likelihood that those homes will be lost tomorrow. Coastal Zone Management also reports serious to severe beach and dune erosion and destruction in many areas, and the erosion/destruction will exacerbate the impacts of tomorrow’s coastal flooding.

PUBLIC MESSAGING
Residents of east and north facing coastal areas should be very concerned about the impacts of tomorrow morning’s high tide. People in these areas need to closely monitor weather forecasts and news, as well as messages from local public safety officials. Residents are urged to evaluate the safety of remaining in their homes, and to immediately follow local orders and guidance concerning evacuations. More complete tips and information for dealing with coastal flooding and power outages are available on MEMA’s website: www.mass.gov/mema.


Kurt Schwartz
Undersecretary, Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Director, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

FRAMINGHAM, MA – The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) continues to work with local communities, state and volunteer agencies and organizations to prepare for the potential impacts of the approaching winter storm. The greatest issues are anticipated to take place along the coast, particularly east and north-facing communities.

MEMA continues to host conference calls with the National Weather Service (NWS), state and local officials, particularly coastal communities, due to the greatest threat of moderate to major coastal flooding and beach erosion during Thursday and Friday high tides.

Previous storms this season have had varying degrees of coastal impacts. This storm could present more severe levels of coastal flooding and erosion over the two-day period due to the fierce winds and high seas.

Citizens are reminded to take the following steps in preparation for the storm:
• Monitor Media reports.
• Know your community’s methods to warn you, if evacuation is necessary. Listen to your local Public Safety officials and respond to their directives in a prompt manner.
• Know your community's flood evacuation routes, potential Public Shelters, and where to find high ground.
• Test your sump pumps. If possible, have a backup power source.
• Ensure your home is ready. Where possible, minimize damage from basement flooding by elevating materials that could be damaged by basement flooding.
• Anchor fuel tanks to ensure that they do not wash away, creating a safety and environmental issue inside or outside the home.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA and Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema. Also, continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MassEMA; Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA. Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and emergency messages from MEMA. Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileappp.

-30-

• Across the United States floods are one of the most common hazards; anywhere it rains, it can flood. While spring brings the promise of warm weather, it also brings an increased flood risk due to a variety of conditions like severe weather, heavy rains and rapid snowmelt. To get more information go to: http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/
• To learn Hands Only CPR go to: http://www.youtube.com/HandsOnlyCPR
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• Please come to our next speaker dinner series featuring Jonathan O’Dell presenting;
How to provide services to deaf and hard of hearing citizens during a disaster on March 5th from 6:00-9:00pm at Framingham Town Hall 150 Concord Road register on the training page
• The American Cancer Society Bicycles Battling Cancer 2013 is looking for Aid Station volunteers on June 9, to volunteer for this event click on link below: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/CommunityFundraisingPages/CFPFY10NewEngland?sid=2001&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=46919
• To learn Hands Only CPR go to: http://www.youtube.com/HandsOnlyCPR
• Winter safety tips: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/winter-weather.html
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!

Friend us on Facebook to get news and take part in MRC discussion



Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

The National Weather Service (NWS) has just provided a forecast update on the winter storm that will impact the state this Saturday afternoon into Sunday afternoon. The current forecast suggests that the storm will be weaker and faster moving than earlier predicted, which means that the impacts will be less severe (less snow, weaker winds, less coastal flooding). But, there is still a relatively high degree of uncertainty in the precise track of the storm and the location of the rain/snow line.

The National Weather Service in Taunton has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Essex, Worcester, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire Counties, and the Watch may be extended into Suffolk County. The National Weather Service in Albany has not yet issued a Winter Storm Watch for Berkshire County but is predicting 4-8” of snow across Berkshire County. Precipitation will start Saturday afternoon with the bulk of the storm impacting the state from later Saturday night into Sunday morning. Light snow may linger into Sunday afternoon. There still is a good deal of uncertainty in the snowfall amounts because temperatures will be near freezing in many areas and the location of the rain/snow line is uncertain (it may be anywhere from the Massachusetts Turnpike to the south coast).

The greatest likelihood of heavy snow is north of the Massachusetts Turnpike where 4” to 8” of heavy wet snow is forecast, with the potential for pockets of 8” to 10” in higher terrain. During the overnight, snow may fall at rates of 1” per hour in some areas. Snowfall amounts likely will drop off south of the Turnpike, with only 1-2” of snowfall on the Cape and Islands. Boston may see 3” to 6” of snow. To the north of the Turnpike, the precipitation is likely to be all snow. Nearer to, and to the south of the rain/snow line, the precipitation may start as snow, then switch to rain and then back to snow. A change in temperature of just a few degrees may significantly increase or decrease the snowfall totals. There may be periods of heavy rainfall along the south coast and to the southeast of I-95 which may result in pockets of urban street flooding; up to 1” of rain may fall in these areas.

Jonathan O’Dell from the communication Access, Training and Technology Services will address the Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers at their Quarterly Speaker Series about the Implications of communicating with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community for First Responders and Disaster Planners. The event will be held at the Framingham Town Hall on March 5th from 6-9pm. The MRC Quarterly Speaker Series affords MRC Volunteers and community members the opportunity to hear from nationally recognized speakers who present information on a variety of emergency preparedness topics over dinner.

We are particularly excited to have Jonathan speak to us about this topic and will give us tools that will help us communicate effectively with the deaf and hard of hearing community and what we can do as first responders to effectively provide services to this population during a disaster and how to properly notify this population during a disaster.


The Medical Reserve Corps trainings are open to the public. Whether you are a MRC volunteer or just interested in the presentation please come out on March 5th from 6:00PM to 9:00PM at the Framingham Town Hall Blumer Room; meet your neighbors, share stories with MRC volunteers and hear and hear our speaker’s first-hand information about a disaster response. A light supper will be provided.

Please register by March 1st on the training/events page

• We want to thank all the Region 4A MRC volunteers who staffed shelters on the South Shore and Cape to help the 1,000’s people that had to leave their homes due to loss of power from the February 2013 Blizzard. Their time and expertise was greatly appreciated by the shelter managers and shelter staff that they relieved. We also want to thank the Region 4A MRC volunteers who made themselves available to staff shelters, a total of 402 shifts could have been covered if needed.
• Next speaker dinner series featuring Jonathan O’Dell presenting: How to provide services to deaf and hard of hearing citizens during a disaster on March 5th from 6:00-9:00pm at Framingham Town Hall 29 Concord Road register on the training page
• Please check out the other trainings coming up in the next few months
• Winter safety tips: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/winter-weather.html
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!
Friend us on Facebook to get news and take part in MRC discussion


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts please note my new email address
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

Hello Everyone~
Region 4A MRC is offically standing down.

There were 1,000’s of people in the shelters during the blizzard due to loss of power in their homes and the cold temperatures. Many of the shelter occupants had functional needs that required care from trained medical volunteers.

We had 16 volunteers that deployed from our Region; many who covered double and triple shifts!

Their time and expertise was greatly appreciated by the shelter managers and shelter staff that they relieved.

During the last 6 days a total of 402 shifts could have been covered by Region 4A MRC volunteers who were on stand-by.

As always our Volunteers and Health Departments supported this response and we so grateful that we have so many wonderful people who are willing to help during a disaster!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

Situation Report: February 8, 2013 Blizzard

February 11, 2013 at 1700 hrs – Report # 4

Federal Activities:
The Region 1 Federal ESF8 DHHS/ASPR staff continues to monitor issues in New England.

Health and Medical Activities/Concerns:
ESF-8 Desk is staffed 24/7 at the State Emergency Operations Center and continues to monitor the status of
• Acute Care Hospitals,
• Community Health Centers,
• Long-Term Care Facilities,
• Patient transport concerns, and
• Shelters
Items being worked on at the ESF-8 desk:
• Working with NSTAR to try to prioritize restoration of the EOHSS Office Building in Hyannis.
• The Volunteer Support Team is continuing to work on volunteers
• We have been in contact with several hospitals and LTCs but there's nothing outstanding at this time.

If you need assistance, please contact the ESF-8 desk at 508-820-1456.

EPB and DPH HCQ have been working with MassMAP and 5 stressed hospitals to facilitate the movement of patients out acute care settings into LTC facilities. DPH HCQ has worked closely with MassHealth and CMS to clarify the mechanisms in place for having these patients cared for in an appropriate LTC setting. EPB reached out to Federal HHS and ASPR for additional guidance. EPB and HCQ participated in 2 conference calls with MassMAP, a conference call with the distressed hospitals and a combined call with both groups. The LTC facilities distributed a listing of available beds and a number of the acute care hospitals provided a description of the discharged patients currently on site.
The following ambulance waivers were issued for the storm and are still in effect:
• Transport to Shelter Waiver – Effective through Tuesday February 12, 1800 as needed
EPB has organized or participated on conference calls for the Statewide MEMA call and calls between the SE hospitals, Long Term Care and Dept. of Healthcare Quality. EPB staff is monitoring WebEOC and are available to assist and support the ESF8 desk as needed.

MBTA service was fully restored as of this morning; however, delays were experienced on some lines.



Regional EBP reports from hospitals and local health

Region 1 hospitals:
• There are no issues to report in Region One

Region 1 local health
• The region continues to clean up from Winter Storm Nemo. These efforts have been due to parked vehicles hampering clean-up efforts. There have been no requests for assistance from this region's health departments and no immediate need for sheltering or warming stations.

Region 2 hospitals and local health
• Our MRC coordinator, Liz Foley, has been working with Lindsay for MRC volunteers. Currently, there are 3 non-medical volunteers willing to help if needed. No medical volunteers have responded as of yet. Otherwise, all is quiet in Region 2

Region 3 hospitals
• All reports are that we are back to normal operations in Region 3 within the hospital community

Region 3 local health
• By 4 PM yesterday, all the shelters in the region had closed and no other significant events had occurred.

Region 4ab hospitals
• Nothing new to report from the 4AB hospitals

Region 4a local health
• Region 4A MRC unit continues to request for volunteers within the unit to help staff the shelters in Marshfield, Falmouth, Sandwich, Eastham, Yarmouth, Bridgewater, Plymouth and Fall River. There are no open shelters or warming stations in the Region.

Region 4b local health
• Main activities today have been to ensure that all Region 4b shelters/warming centers still open are adequately staffed.
• Currently working on staffing for overnight in Scituate & Norwell; also working on day shift for Tuesday for both Scituate & Norwell
• Both Norwell and Scituate shelters expect to remain open Tuesday
• Cohasset warming station at Deer Hill Elementary School expects to close at 9 PM Monday 2/11/2013
• Weymouth ARC shelter has 13 clients as of Monday AM and expected to close today; staffing needs met at this time by MRC/ARC.
• Norwell shelter has moved from the Norwell Middle School to the Norwell Council on Aging; currently 20 clients
• Scituate shelter remains open with 50 clients; expecting more tonight and will remain open Tuesday

Region 4c hospitals and local health
• Not much to report from Boston. Hospitals and public health are both running normally. The only public health update that we have is that we are utilizing MRC volunteers to do some outreach and education on the dangers of carbon monoxide since there were several more incidents of CO poisoning in the City yesterday

Region 5 hospitals
• Nothing new to report

Region 5 local health
• As power gradually returns, some shelters/warming centers have been able to close. Across the region, shelters are being consolidated, but the need is still strong in some areas, especially in Plymouth and Cape Cod. Problems still persist.
o Dennis-Yarmouth shelters remains open with 33 clients reported to me at 3 pm.
o Sandwich shelter re-opened and is receiving clients from the Falmouth shelter, and possibly from Bourne and Plymouth.
o Nauset RHS shelter in Eastham closed at 3 pm today.
o Wareham: Few scattered outages persist in town; about 12 person left in the Multi-Service Center. They’re busing clients home who were sent to Plymouth shelters as their power comes on.
o Plymouth: still large outages; Plymouth South HS shelter open; Council on Aging shelter is being closed and people transferred to Plymouth South HS; 80 -100 persons there now; approx. 40 more coming from Council on Aging; others coming from Wareham and other communities. Reports of power surges causing new blackouts in towns.
o Randolph shelter (Randolph Community Middle School) closed 2/10, 6 pm.


Long Term Care/MassMAP Update:
• Down to 2 facilities on emergency power from the 4 this morning. These facilities were all contacted by MassMAP Steering Committee members and all reporting minor impacts to their operation.
o One facility, Newfield House Convalescent Home in Plymouth, who was experiencing a fuel issue this morning received fuel early this afternoon.
• The 2 remaining facilities will be followed up by Regional MassMAP Steering Committee member’s tomorrow morning. We will provide a status update later tomorrow morning.


Shelter Activities:
Current information shows 11 shelters currently open with a total population of 660 occupants.


Power Outages:
112,700 currently without power as of 1600 today

National Grid – 24,055
NSTAR – 88,645
National Grid 24055


Please feel free to circulate this to colleagues and throughout your agency, organization and/or associations.

Hello Everyone~

We have a requests for shelter staffing from Marshfield, Falmouth, Sandwich, Eastham, Yarmouth, Bridgewater, Plymouth and Fall River, if you are willing to travel and cover some hours so there staff can get some rest it would be greatly appreciated. Most of these shelters have 100+ occupants!

If you are available please sign up for shifts on the web-page

Or

Email or call me back and let me know your availability, they will be so grateful for your help!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

February 10, 2013 at 1700 hrs – Report # 3

Federal Activities:
The Region 1 Federal ESF8 DHHS/ASPR staff continues to monitor issues in New England.

Health and Medical Activities/Concerns:
ESF-8 Desk is staffed 24/7 at the State Emergency Operations Center and continues to monitor the status of
• Acute Care Hospitals,
• Community Health Centers,
• Long-Term Care Facilities,
• Patient transport concerns, and
• Shelters
Open issues still being worked on at the ESF-8 desk:
• Staffing for several shelters, mainly located on the Cape.
• Hospitals being inundated with local residents seeking shelter in their facilities rather than nearby shelters

If you need assistance, please contact the ESF-8 desk at 508-820-1456.
The following ambulance waivers were issued and are still in effect as noted:
• Paramedic/Basic Waiver
• Transport to Shelter Waiver - Effective through Tuesday February 12, 1800 as needed
• EMS Operational Changes During Severe Weather Events Waiver
EPB has organized or participated on conference calls for the Duty Officer Team and Regional Public Health and Hospital Coordinators. EPB staff is monitoring WebEOC and are available to assist and support the ESF8 desk as needed.

At 2:00 pm today MBTA began limited bus and subway service and expects full restoration by the beginning of the Monday morning commute.


Regional EBP reports from hospitals and local health

Region 1 hospitals:
• No issue to report

Region 1 local health
• All is quiet on the western front after the winter storm hammered Western Massachusetts. However, there were no power outages, was and no need to open shelters or warming stations. Local health and public safety's resources were not stretched. There were no requests for assistance from local health and the MRC and ARC in the region were not mobilized but remained on full alert.

Region 2 hospitals
• No hospitals reporting any operational issues

Region 2 local health
• Only update at this time is that the Worcester Regional MRC has requested volunteers for region 5 sheltering. No volunteers have responded as of yet.

Region 3 hospitals
• I have polled the Reg. 3 hospitals about sheltering, and have only gotten one reply, which was negative. I suspect that most of the E. P. Coordinators are home shoveling out, as the emergency phase has largely passed.
• North Shore Medical Center has put in a request on WebEOC, as has the Emergency Manager there, for snow removal equipment.

Region 3 local health
• No issues to report

Region 4ab hospitals
• Most 4AB hospitals are coping well in the aftermath of the storm. However, South Shore Hospital has been most severely challenged due to its location near the coastal areas where so many residents are without power or safe homes. They are having a difficult time discharging patients, vacating discharged patients from the facility and are experiencing a large influx of new patients since the travel ban ended. Today South Shore is readying a closed floor for operations and is opening a “discharge lounge/ family assistance area” on-site.
• South Shore Hospital had been approached by a LTC facility to assist them in procuring medications. That facility was put in touch with Walgreens to resolve their needs.

Region 4a local health
• The communities in Region 4A have plans, resources, and equipment in place to open their shelters and warming stations, if necessary. To my knowledge, No shelters or warming centers have opened.
• Region 4A MRC unit has sent notice to volunteers to help staff shifts for the Barnstable shelter.

Region 4b local health
• Scituate HS shelter currently still open with heat; requested animal crates and request filled by SMART regional cache; 189 clients and still arriving; Received trailer with needed supplies; Staffing needs met through Monday AM; client with MI transported to hospital-ICU
• Cohasset warming station at Deer Hill Elementary School cafeteria: open thru Tuesday (24 hours); staffing needs met
• Quincy has one shelter open with 1 client at Kennedy Senior Center 440 E. Squantum; they are keeping this open until 8-10 PM tonight in case remaining residents without power need shelter
• Weymouth ARC shelter requested medical/non-medical for overnight shift; staffing needs met at this time by MRC.
• Norwell shelter remains open with 80+ clients; homeless shelter was being evacuated and brought to overnight shelter; Requested blankets earlier through MEMA; staffing needs met
• Braintree warming center closed

Region 4c hospitals
• Hospitals are reporting no operational issues at this time.
• Unplowed roads surrounding several hospitals are causing issues for staff coming to and from facilities. These requests have been reported to the City of Boston EOC and the Mayor’s Hotline for attention.

Region 4c local health
• The MIC is in a Level 3 virtual activation. Please call 617-343-6920 with questions.
• Wood-Mullen Homeless Shelter continues to have higher than normal volume.
• Power has been fully restored at the Long Island Shelter.
• Two carbon monoxide deaths in the City of Boston as well as numerous exposures. Press conference held to warm residents of the dangers of carbon monoxide while shoveling their cars and in their homes.

Region 5 hospitals
• The Region 5 Hospitals are being overwhelmed by the number of patients who are seeking shelter due to the many power outage issues.
• We have at least two hospitals that are operating on generator power.

Region 5 local health
• Situation still bad on Cape, south coast and east coast. Shelters shown on recent list still open; report of one additional shelter opened in Fairhaven. Not managed by the BOH and I'm still trying to obtain info.
• Cape has very busy shelters, with Falmouth relieving Sandwich. Wareham warming center overtaxed and sending some folks to regional shelter in Fall River.
• Power outages still extensive and making communications and feeding operations at warming centers difficult.


Long Term Care/MassMAP Update:
• 8 facilities are on emergency power although it is likely that the number will decrease during the day. These facilities were all contacted by MassMAP Steering Committee members and all are reporting minor impacts to their operation. These facilities will be followed up by Regional MassMAP Steering Committee members tonight and again tomorrow.
• EPB has begun a discussion with the Region 5 MassMAP coordinator and facilities about taking some of the discharged Hospital patients that are piling up in EDs and elsewhere.

Shelter Activities:
Current information shows 18 shelters currently open with a total population of 1,804 occupants. American Red Cross indicates that the number is likely smaller due to a calculation glitch in WebEOC.


Power Outages:
208,262 currently without power as of 1700 today

National Grid - 46,866
NSTAR - 161,3396



Please feel free to circulate this to colleagues and throughout your agency, organization and/or associations.

Hello Everyone~

We have a requests for shelter staffing from Marshfield, Falmouth, Sandwich, Eastham, Yarmouth, Bridgewater, Plymouth and Fall River, if you are willing to travel and cover some hours so there staff can get some rest it would be greatly appreciated.

If you are available please sign up for shifts click on Deployment button on this page

Or

Email or call me back and let me know your availability, they will be so grateful for your help!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

DATE: February 8, 2013
TIME: 9:00 AM

SUBJECT: WEATHER UPDATE: MAJOR WINTER STORM/BLIZZARD

The National Weather Service in Taunton has just provided the attached forecast update on the major winter storm/blizzard that will move into Massachusetts this afternoon. Please note that the forecast now calls for more than 24” of snow through much of central and eastern Massachusetts.

MEMA’s Emergency Operations Center is operating at Level III (Partial Activation) and will escalate to Level II (Full Activation) at 12 PM. Resource or coordination requests can be forwarded to MEMA via WebEOC (the WebEOC event is 2013 February 8 Winter Storm), telephone (to headquarters or a regional office), or radio. All eighteen Emergency Support Functions (ESF’s) will be staffed as of 12 PM and can provide resources and support concerning power outages, emergency fuel shortages, shelter operations, snow and debris removal, stranded motorists, well-being checks, communications failures, structural damage, coastal flooding evacuations, public safety and public works mutual aid, and distribution of critical commodities.

MEMA will hold a statewide conference call today at 11:15 AM for emergency management directors, public safety, public health and other municipal officials. The call-in information has been disseminated via email to all municipal emergency management directors. The call will include a briefing from the National Weather Service.

Governor Patrick has closed state offices today except for emergency workers and has encouraged businesses and schools to be closed. Additionally, the Governor has asked all motorists to be off the Commonwealth’s roads by 12 PM, and the Governor intends to declare a State of Emergency later today.


Kurt Schwartz
Undersecretary, Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Director, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

Dear MRC Volunteers~

We are asking that MRC volunteers go on stand-by for shelter/warming station staffing in case there is a need due to the very large snow storm heading for New England.
If you are available please sign up for shifts on the MRC Deployment web-page:
http://www.region4a-mrc.org/deployment/schedule

Below is a link from MEMA with some great safety tips.
http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/winter-weather.html

Stay safe~

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

DATE: February 6, 2013
TIME: 8:45 AM

SUBJECT: MAJOR WINTER STORM (SNOW AND HIGH WINDS)

The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Watches for all of Massachusetts except the southeastern part of the state in anticipation of a major winter storm that will move through the area on Friday and Saturday. The storm may bring heavy snow (the forecast is for 10-14” of snow for much of the state, with lesser amounts in the southeast), high winds (gusts to 60 MPH or higher near the coast) and minor to moderate coastal flooding.

MEMA will continue to monitor the forecast and disseminate updated situational awareness statements as needed. MEMA will participate in a conference call with the National Weather Service this afternoon and likely will update this Situational Awareness Statement after the call.

The most recent snowfall forecast graphic from the National Weather Service in Taunton may be viewed at: https://dl.dropbox.com/u/18185487/NWS%20Taunton%201.GIF

The most recent snowfall forecast graphic from the National Weather Service in Albany may be viewed at: Albany: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/aly/Past/Snow_PNS/WSW.htm

FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN TAUNTON:

Computer models continue to trend towards developing a major winter storm for Southern New England Friday into Saturday. However we have moderate confidence that 6 inches or more of snowfall may occur within this storm. Therefore a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for southern NH and most of MA: http://1.usa.gov/w3LOMN. Attached are the snowfall probabilities and snowfall forecast.

Uncertainty:
There is still a lot of uncertainty in regards to the details of this storm, however it appears that it will move near the benchmark (40N 70W). If the projected storm track trends farther west then the heaviest snow may occur farther inland; also, there would be more of a rain/snow mix for a longer period of time and for a larger part of Rhode Island and Eastern Massachusetts. If the forecast storm track trends farther east then heaviest snowfall would be at the coast or offshore with lighter amounts inland. Hopefully we will have a better idea within the next 24 hrs.

Timing and Duration:
Snow should start early Friday morning, become strongest Friday evening, then taper off Saturday. The snow could mix with or change to rain across south coastal parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts during Friday afternoon before changing back to snow by evening. Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are possible.

Location:
All sections of Southern New England should be affected.

Hazards:
1. Heavy Snow...moderate confidence of 6 inches or more with the potential for over one foot of snow accumulation.

2. Wind...Potential for Northeast winds gusting to 60 mph or higher along and near the coasts Friday night and Saturday morning. Greatest risk for this wind would be along Cape Ann as well as Cape Cod and the Islands. Higher elevations inland such as Blue Hill and the Worcester Hills and Northwest Rhode Island...may also be at risk.

3. Coastal Flooding... Potential for minor to moderate coastal flooding. Greatest risk would be along the Massachusetts eastern coast during the Friday night high tide and across northern facing beaches during the Sat morning high tide.

Marine:
Storm Force winds are likely on the coastal waters from Friday evening through Saturday morning.

Impacts:
Travel will become difficult, especially for the morning and evening commutes on Friday lasting through early Saturday. Snow covered roads and poor visibilities from drifting snow is possible. Strong winds and significant snow accumulations may bring down power lines and tree limbs, especially during Friday night and Saturday. Finally, minor to moderate coastal flooding around the time of high tide Friday night and Saturday morning.

MEMA’s Emergency Operations Center remains at Level IV (Steady State).

Additional information is available at the NWS websites: www.weather.gov/boston and www.weather.gov/Albany


Kurt Schwartz
Undersecretary, Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Director, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security

• Our next training about the Springfield Tornado Shelter Response will be held at the Natick Town Hall 13 East Central Street Tuesday February 5th from 6:30-7:30pm please register on our website: http://www.region4a-mrc.org
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!
Friend us on Face book click on link above!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A MRC Coordinator
mrc4avc@gmail.com

Posted Jan 28, 2013 @ 12:00 AM
Last update Jan 28, 2013 @ 10:41 AM

SUDBURY —
The alarming sound of 20 people yelling "Stop!" echoed through Sudbury’s Goodnow Library Sunday, as the public and members of the Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps practices how to proactively deter a dangerous person or circumstance.
Dr. Ippolit Matjucha, head of the Sudbury Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), presented a course on violence prevention, site security and personal security, focusing on how emergency-response volunteers can ensure local shelters are safe in the event of a crisis.
Matjucha said in any situation, "prevention is better than response."

Someone walking down a dark street may take steps to identify and respond to a potentially dangerous situation the same way a volunteer at an emergency shelter would be on the lookout for individuals who may be under extreme stress and likely to cause problems, Matjucha said.

He emphasized that deterring violent situations can be as simple as creating routines and habits to keep a person or group from appearing as an easy target for potential predators.
Linda Brooks, a member of the Holliston MRC, said she was once deployed to volunteer at an emergency shelter in Worcester, where nurses made sure to find out if guests were on any type of medication and that they received their regular doses while away from home.
Skipping any type of medication, Matjucha said, can cause stress and in some cases lead to outbursts.

Retired psychiatric social worker Wendy Sohn, who has been a member of the Wayland MRC for five years, said she looks to address issues related to mental health among people who visit shelters.
She said it’s important that volunteers are trained ahead of time in how to operate a shelter safely because sometimes a crisis cannot be predicted.
"You might have to open a shelter in a second," Sohn said.

Individuals who seek shelter are often those who are not safe in their own homes due to power outages or some type of threat, and therefore they can be prone to acting in a way that threatens others in the shelter, Matjucha said.
He said the more people who come to a shelter, the greater chance that one of them may be a criminal or predator, which is why volunteers need to be on alert.
Matjucha outlined different types of criminals and how anyone can identify a person who might be a threat and create a plan of action accordingly.

Some MRC members said they were concerned about whether shelters have a police presence, since many small towns do not have the resources to station an officer at a shelter full time during an emergency.
Matjucha suggested the volunteers request that police simply stop by once or twice during each shift or even station a cruiser outside of the shelter to ward off any opportunistic criminals.
In the event a person senses a distinct threat, Matjucha provided a number of actions the individual could take, beginning with less-aggressive strategies like making eye contact and moving away from the threat to more extreme actions like utilizing pepper spray.
He stressed that the latter would require justification, which is why he said it is best to identify a dangerous situation and mentally map out an escape route before a confrontation can occur.
Sara Mulkeen can be reached at 508-490-7475 or smulkeen@wickedlocal.com.


Read more: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x1631910980/Training-in-Sudbury-promotes-safer-communities#ixzz2JJawl0Xj


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• Know common flu symptoms to identify if you or loved ones need to seek medical attention
• Resolve to be ready this year when a disaster or emergency strikes through the use of every day technology.
• Thank you to Ippolit Matjucha, MD teaching A Safe Haven: Reducing the Risk of Violence at Community Crisis Response Site Sunday 1/27/13
• 4A upcoming trainings and events are on our website: http://www.region4a-mrc.org
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator

*All MRC contacts Please note my new email address
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

• Resolve in 2013 to review your family emergency plan and refresh you emergency supplies.
• For Family Emergency Plan information please go to: http://www.ready.gov
• Flu incidence is on the rise across Massachusetts. More information on the flu: www.Mass.Gov/flu
• 4A upcoming trainings and events are on our website: http://www.region4a-mrc.org
• Let me know if you have any events that you would like to share.
• Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer!


Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

Happy New Year Everyone~

We are starting a new weekly email that lists the upcoming trainings and events in the region.

We hope that this will make you better aware of the wonderful opportunities that you have access to as a MRC volunteer and any relevant news.

Coming up in the month of January we want to highlight a special program developed by Ippolit Matjucha MD the MRC Executive Committee Chair in Sudbury.

A Safe Haven: Reducing the Risk of Violence at Community Crisis Response Site

Sunday, January 27, 2012 from 2-4
Goodnow Library
21 Concord Road
Sudbury, MA 01776

Please sign up on our web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules

*How to Login to the Region 4A MRC web-page:
Click on http://www.region4a-mrc.org/
Click on the login button on the right upper corner of the web-page type in your user name and password, if you forgot your password please click on the forgot password button and it will send you an email to reset your password.

If you have not registered Click on register and set up a profile.

We would also like to honor Kathi Garvin from Walpole MRC for receiving the Change Makers Award from the New England Patriots on December 30, 2012!



Flu Season is in full force, the best way to protect you and your family from the flu is to get the flu vaccine, practice good hand washing and if you are sick stay home.

More information on the flu:
www.Mass.Gov/flu
www.FluNearYou.Org

Thank you very much for being a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer and for all that you do to protect to public health in your community!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator
www.region4a-mrc.org
mrc4avc@gmail.com
#774-278-0059

Our MRC Volunteer, Kathi Garvin was again honored by the N.E. Patriots at the December 30th game during halftime as one of the Patriot Changemakers of the Year (Kathi for her volunteerism with the Walpole MRC). If that wasn’t enough, they announced at the game that Mr. Kraft will be donating $1000 to the Walpole MRC in honor of Kathi!

The Boston Globe recently ran an article featuring the MRC. Volunteers--you make this possible. Check it out!

This is great web-page that connects you with ways you can help the people affected by Hurricane Sandy

http://www.serve.gov/sandy

Hello Everyone~

Region 4A MRC is officially on stand down for our area.

I want to thank you all for your amazing response, we had almost 500 shifts that our volunteers were willing to cover.

As always I am amazed by the willingness of the Region 4A MRC volunteers to give back to our communities, thank you all it is an truly honor and a privilege to work with you all.

But there is still a great need for volunteers to staff shelters in New York!

The New York State Office of Emergency Management is looking for shelter support workers for deployment for 7 to 14 days. New York needs 1,000 shelter workers to work in various sheltering roles throughout the state. Immunizations or vaccinations are suggested to deploy, we can provide you with all of the vaccinations for free. During the Deployment there will be likely twelve hour shifts; day or night and most likely you will be staying at the shelter during the deployment.

Please note this deployment is for teams no less than 10 members, not individuals. We are getting close to getting our team together we need 4 more volunteers! We are asking that you have been experienced in shelter operations.

I am pulling together a cost estimate to submit to EMAC that cover a minimum of ten volunteers (i.e. wages, indirect, hotel, travel, meals and incidentals). Under EMAC all costs will be reimbursed. Units deploying teams will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with MEMA that will cover liability and reimbursement issues.

Please let me know if you are interested in helping out and can go away for that length of time, it will take a long time for New York to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy.

If you are available to help out for a week to 2 weeks in the next 2 months. I can provide a letter to your employer to ask that they release for you to volunteer for this event.

You can register by clicking on this link:

http://www.region4a-mrc.org/registrations/new?schedule=1140

Or

Contact me directly
Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A MRC Coordinator
#774-278-0059
www.region4a-mrc.org

Hello Everyone~

The New York State Office of Emergency Management is looking for shelter support workers for deployment of up to 14 days. New York needs 1,000 shelter workers to work in various sheltering roles throughout the state. Immunizations or vaccinations are suggested to deploy. Likely twelve hour shifts; day or night.

Please note this deployment is for teams no less than 10 members, not individuals. All people have to be experienced in shelter operations.

If interested please provide daily costs estimates for teams, minimum of ten (i.e. wages, indirect, hotel, travel, meals and incidentals). Under EMAC all costs will be reimbursed. Units deploying teams will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with MEMA that will liability and reimbursement issues.

Please let me know if you are interested in helping out and can go away for that length of time, it will take a long time for then to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy.

You can register by clicking on this link:

http://www.region4a-mrc.org/registrations/new?schedule=1140

Or

Contact me directly
Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A MRC Coordinator
#774-278-0059
www.region4a-mrc.org

________________________________________

DHS -FEMA Updates

Communities Begin Recovery Efforts in Sandy’s Wake

Downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone system, Sandy left a high level of damage in her wake along the east coast and up into Western New York State Monday.

Making landfall in New Jersey on Monday evening with 80 mph sustained winds, Sandy cut power to more than 7.4 million homes and businesses from the Carolinas to Ohio. The massive storm gradually made its way inland, with bands reaching well into the Midwest where Chicago officials warned residents to stay away from the shore of Lake Michigan as the city prepares for winds of up to 60 mph and waves exceeding 24 feet well into Wednesday.

If you’ve been affected by Sandy, here are some tips you might find useful:

• Visit FloodSmart.gov – Given the severe flooding many communities have experienced, individuals are encouraged to visit FloodSmart.gov for important tools, tips and guidance for recovery after a flood. FloodSmart is the official Website of the National Flood Insurance Program.

• Follow the direction of local officials – continue to heed the guidance of local elected and emergency management officials. If you’ve evacuated they’ll let you know when it’s safe to return. They’ll also provide you with guidance on how to access local disaster help resources if needed.

• Keep up to date with local conditions – while the immediate danger of the storm may have passed, many areas are still experiencing heavy rains, winds and snow. Continue to follow TV and radio reports from your area or visit www.weather.gov (http://mobile.weather.gov on your phone) for the latest forecast.

• Remember food safety – you may be experiencing power outages and flooding as a result of the strong winds and heavy rains so be sure you are keeping food safe. Use a cooler to keep food cold and group food together in the freezer so it stays cold longer.

• Volunteer or Donate - After disaster strikes, many around the country want to offer their support in whatever way they can, so we will continue to get the word out about where you can volunteer or donate to help disaster survivors. Be wary of scam artists that show up after a disaster as well, and be familiar with these tips.

Prepare for hazards in YOUR area
Although you may not have been affected by Sandy, now is a good time to review the potential hazards where you live. For example, this weekend’s reported earthquake off the coast of Canada which “triggered” a tsunami warning in Hawaii reminds us how disasters can strike at anytime and anywhere.

Knowing likely risks for your area, whether wildfires, earthquakes or tornadoes and knowing what to do when a disaster strikes is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds matter. Local emergency management offices can help you identify hazards in your community and can outline the local plans and recommendations for each.

Be sure to share this information with family, neighbors, colleagues and friends – talking about preparedness helps everyone be ready, “just in case.” Use the links in this article to make your family, business and community safer, more resilient and better prepared for any disaster event.

***Webinar Reminder***
Engaging Families in Community Service and Preparedness
Wednesday, November 7
3:00 PM EST
Plan ahead and be prepared for National Family Volunteer Day on Saturday, November 17 by joining the FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Division and Ready.gov for a FREE planning Webinar on Wednesday, November 7.

National Family Volunteer Day is the start of National Family Week and embodies the spirit of family and community service by engaging relatives, children and community members in service projects, including those efforts focused on helping communities prepare for disasters.

Join and listen as our guest speakers discuss ways you can:

• Capitalize on this Family Volunteer Day event;
• Engage families in your community; and
• Encourage those who haven’t made a family service-day commitment to do so.

ESF-8 Update
October 30th 5:00am

Weather Forecast
• NWS Albany has issued a wind advisory for Berkshire County until 6pm this evening. High Wind Warning cancelled.
• A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect along the entire Massachusetts coast until 1:00PM Tuesday.
• A Flood Watch is in effect for central and western Massachusetts until 6:00AM Wednesday.
• Monday night and Tuesday: Rain, heavy at times, windy, lows in the mid 50s and highs in the lower 60s. Chance of rain 90%.

Health Facility Update

Acute Care

The ESF-8 Desk staff members have worked with hospital representatives and regional coordinators from throughout the state to determine the current situation status of all the Commonwealth’s hospitals and healthcare facilities.

The ESF-8 Desk has worked with ESF-12, the Department of Public Utilities and representatives from the utility companies to prioritize restoration for all affected acute care hospitals. As of 04:30 power had been restored to all hospitals.

The following hospitals temporarily lost electrical grid power and had to rely upon backup generators

• Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis
• Health Alliance Hospital
• Falmouth Hospital in Falmouth Steward Holy Family Hospital in Methuen
• New England Sinai Hospital and Rehabilitation Center in Stoughton (Rehab Hospital)
• Lawrence General Hospital in Lawrence
• Beth Israel Milton Hospital in Milton
• Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital in Brockton
• Whidden Memorial Hospital in Everett
Long Term Care Facilities
• 13 reported operational issues ranging from being on emergency power to staff challenges accessing the facility
• All facilities were communicated with throughout the day and no major issues reported. All facilities have reported as of this evening and calls to the sites will resume in the AM when the major phase of the storm is over since status may change overnight.
• 1737 total beds for nursing home, assisted living, rest home, etc available
• 1365 patients can be moved by vehicles owned by LTC-MAP member facilities

Utility Customer Outage Numbers as of 5:00 a.m.

National Grid 205,556
NSTAR 82,678
WMECO 8,787
FG&E 1,539
Total: 298,450

The utilities spent the night concentrating on public safety issues (e.g. clearing downed lines, restoring power to health facilities etc). With daylight, they will have their damage assistance teams out to address residential outages.

Shelters

As of 5:00 am there were 23 shelters opened across the state with a total of 161 residents.

MEMA Briefing
October 29, 2012
12:30pm

National Weather Service Update
NWS had anticipated gusts to 50mph at 2am; but they did not materialize. Overnight the storm strengthened and it continues to strengthen, which caused the storm to contract away from us briefly. Right now Hurricane Sandy is experiencing 90 mph winds, making it close to a category 2 storm. It is moving quickly to the northwest toward the NJ coast. MA will experience a dramatic increase in winds this afternoon and evening. Gusts of 60-80 mph 95 corridor & eastward. Those winds expected 2pm – 10pm. The original forecast of prolonged wind gusts for 12-18 hours has diminished to 8-10 hours.

Rainfall predictions remain consistent. Outer band of rainfall is approaching. Along with it are gusts of up to 70 mph. Corridors of rainfall are anticipated where rain may exceed 3 inches – Blue Hills, Worcester hills, Berkshire.

Temperatures are increasingly rapidly as winds switch to southeast. Temperatures are anticipated to rise to mid to upper 60s. The surge of warmth will make the atmosphere more unstable and allow in more winds.

The east coast is just coming off a high tide. Quite a number of spots reached moderate impact. The next tide will be at midnight and it looks to have comparable to a little less impact. The high tide on the south coast this evening is a concern. Wave activity will be very close to shore. The area of greatest worry is Fairhaven and west to Westport and parts of Dartmouth. 4-5 foot surge is anticipated along the south coast with very large energy waves. Flooding off of Mount Hope River and Narragansett Bay are a concern. The tide cycle tomorrow morning along the south coast may see some moderate impact, with significant onshore flow.

The forecast for tomorrow morning includes winds with 30 mph gusts and a possible resurgence of winds to 40 mph in the afternoon.

MEMA Update
MEMA has been in close contact with CT who has strongly recommended that all public be off the highways as of 1pm. Tractor trailers were asked to be off the road at 11am. Sturbridge and other areas may see tractor trailers in truck areas & parking lots because they’ve been asked to stay off of roads.

FEMA has provided new written guidance for debris clearance on federal aid highways. The guidance will be posted on the MEMA website on the Public Assistance and Hurricane pages. The debris management teams want communities to know that bucket trucks cannot be deployed until wind gusts are less than 30mph.

At this time there are about 30,000 outages across the state, with a concentration on the south coast & Cape. It is anticipated that this will increase significantly as the afternoon progresses. Some outages have been restored quickly. MEMA is receiving reports of downed limbs, trees, wires; but have not seen widespread issues. All towns should have been contacted by their community liaison from the power company serving that community. Efforts have been made to ensure a good integration/coordination between pole removal teams and wire down teams.

Massport reported that Logan is open and can take diversions. Airlines are done for the day. Flights will resume tomorrow. Three cruise ships are docked and in port.

MBTA has reported that all service will be terminated as of 2pm to include buses, subways, and commuter rail.

The American Red Cross asked that the shelter board be limited to overnight shelter reporting only and requested that information be provided for which shelters are regional. ARC asked that shelter information include which shelters are regional. They will re-evaluate the need for shelters as the storm progresses and will open additional shelters if necessary.

The Governor will consider any recommendations for school closings for tomorrow later today. Uncertainty exists around the extent of power outages/debris issues and may need to wait until this evening.

President Obama Signs Massachusetts Emergency Declaration


WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to supplement commonwealth and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Sandy beginning on October 27, 2012, and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in all counties in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent federal funding.

Justo Hernández has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema.

To volunteer to staff shelters this week, please click on the Deployment Button on the left.

Thank you very much for your willingness to help!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A MRC Coordinator
# 774-278-0059

Whether you are at home, work or elsewhere, there may be situations when it's simply best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside.

There may be circumstances when staying put and creating a barrier between yourself and potentially contaminated air outside, a process known as "sealing the room," is a matter of survival.

Use common sense and available information to assess the situation and determine if there is immediate danger. If you see large amounts of debris in the air, or if local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to take this kind of action.

The process used to seal the room is considered a temporary protective measure to create a barrier between you and potentially contaminated air outside. It is a type of sheltering in place that requires preplanning.
•Bring your family and pets inside.
•Lock doors, close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers.
•Turn off fans, air conditioning and forced air heating systems.
•Take your emergency supply kit unless you have reason to believe it has been contaminated.
•Go into an interior room with few windows, if possible.
•Seal all windows, doors and air vents with 2-4 mil. thick plastic sheeting and duct tape. Consider measuring and cutting the sheeting in advance to save time.
•Cut the plastic sheeting several inches wider than the openings and label each sheet.
•Duct tape plastic at corners first and then tape down all edges.
•Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to seal gaps so that you create a barrier between yourself and any contamination.
•Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.

Situation:

Hurricane Sandy is currently off the coast of North Carolina and is expected to move north-northwest tonight and tomorrow, making landfall along the New Jersey coast sometime Monday night into Tuesday.

Given the large geographic size and duration of Sandy, Massachusetts will experience moderate to major impacts, including damaging winds for a period of 12 – 18 hours, associated widespread power outages, and heavy rains. In addition, both south- and east-facing coastlines will experience moderate to major coastal flooding and beach erosion.

Potential impacts of Sandy include:

• High Seas: Sandy is predicted to cause unusually high seas (30 feet or greater) off the coast of New England with seas building Sunday evening and peaking Monday and Tuesday. Strong gale and storm force winds are expected with hurricane force gusts possible. Seas will be dangerous and potentially life-threatening, even for large vessels. National Weather Service (NWS) advises all vessels be in port by Sunday morning.
• Winds: Damaging winds and associated widespread power outages are likely. Wind damage may be exacerbated in southern New England as most trees still have foliage at this time of year. Inland Massachusetts could experience sustained 30-40 mph winds with gusts of 50-60 mph. beginning Monday morning. The Massachusetts coastline will see winds of 40-50 mph with gusts 60-80 mph beginning in late Sunday night and early Monday morning.
• Coastal Flooding: Both east- and south-facing coasts in Massachusetts may experience moderate to major coastal flooding and beach erosion during the Monday and Tuesday high tide cycles. For south-facing coasts, the Monday evening high tide is of most concern and may experience major coastal flooding. Surge is expected to reach 3-5 feet, with high energy waves of up to 30 feet approaching the coastline. There is the possibility that areas within Buzzards Bay, especially the south coast, may to see up to 6-10 feet of surge as the winds push water up into the bay, resulting in destructive coastal flooding. For east-facing coasts, minor to moderate coastal flooding may occur, with the Monday midday and midnight high tide cycles of most concern. East-facing coasts may see 2-4 feet of surge during high tide, with 3-5 feet possible during low tide cycle.
• Rainfall: Massachusetts can expect 1 -3 inches of rainfall Sunday night through Wednesday with locally higher amounts of 3-5 inches possible, especially in the Berkshires and Worcester Hills. Rain is expected to begin Sunday night and potentially last through mid-week.

The latest 5-day forecast map from the National Hurricane Center is included below.

The State Emergency Operations Center has activated to Level 2 (Full) as of 9:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, and will expand activation to a Level 1 (Highest) on Sunday night.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for the General Public:

• Finish your preparedness activities today:
• Be sure to have a well-stocked Family Disaster Kit in the event you lose power or are isolated for a number of days.
• Clear clogged rain gutters. This storm brings the potential for torrential rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected flooding.
• Secure outdoor items such as lawn furniture, trash barrels, hanging plants, decorations, toys and awnings that can be broken or picked up by strong winds and potentially become a projectile.
• Elevate articles in your basement that could be damaged from even minor flooding.
• Keep your vehicles fully fuelled.
• Have a certain amount of cash available. If power is lost, ATMs may not be working.
• Stay informed by monitoring the storm via the media.
• Plan to stay safely indoors throughout the course of the storm, beginning Sunday night and through Tuesday morning. Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are operable.
• If you use a generator, be sure to operate it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to shut off your main power supply to your home when running your generator.
• Do not use gas stoves or candles as heat or light sources.
• Heed guidance and directives from your local officials.

Ping4alerts!:

MEMA encourages smartphone users to download the free ping4alerts! app. This app is available free of charge for iPhone and Android phones and receives severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from MEMA based on the user's location. Learn more here.

Online Resources:

For additional information and resources, visit:

• Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency at www.mass.gov/mema (Hurricane preparedness tips and other preparedness information are available through the “Hurricane” link on MEMA’s homepage).
• MEMA's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/MassachusettsEMA
• MEMA Twitter: @MassEMA
• Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov
• National Hurricane Center website at www.nhc.noaa.gov
• National Weather Service/Taunton at www.weather.gov/boston
• National Weather Service/Albany, NY at www.weather.gov/albany
• Mass211 at www.mass211.org

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA and Storm Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema.

With the possible threat of Hurricane Sandy following a track that could have a major impact on New England early next week, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) recommends actions that people can take to minimize the potential damage from this storm.

"Early planning and preparation can be the key to your safety," states MEMA Director Kurt Schwartz. "It is important to use your time wisely and not wait until the last minute to ensure your family's safety."

Here are some examples of steps you should be taking:

• Make sure you have a well-stocked Family Disaster Kit in the event you lose power or are isolated for a number of days.
• Trim back trees and shrubbery around your home. Remove diseased or damaged tree limbs that could be blown down, causing damage, during a storm.
• Clear clogged rain gutters. This storm brings the potential for torrential rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected flooding.
• Bring in outdoor items such as lawn furniture, trash barrels, hanging plants, toys and awnings that can be broken or picked up by strong winds and used as a missile.
• Make sure storage sheds, children's playhouses or other outbuildings are securely anchored, either to a permanent foundation or with straps and ground anchors.
• Elevate articles in your basement that could be damaged from even minor flooding.
• Make temporary plywood covers to protect windows and sliding doors. Drill holes for screws or lag bolts in each cover and around each window. Note: Taping of windows does not prevent them from breaking.
• Keep you vehicles fully fuelled.
• Have a certain amount of cash available. If power is lost, ATMs may not be working.
• Make a record of your personal property. Keep an itemized list of your furniture, clothing and valuables to assist adjusters in case of a claim. Back it up with photographs or video.
• Protect your insurance policies and other important documents in a secure place like a safe deposit box or a watertight box. Many people back up important documents online.
• Learn where gas pilots and water mains are located and how to safely shut off all utilities.
• Lock doors and windows to ensure that they are closed tight to help protect against strong winds and rain.
• Boat owners, who plan on taking their vessel out of the water soon, should consider doing so this weekend.
• Download the free ping4alert! app to your Smartphone to receive important weather alerts and messages from MEMA. Easy instructions are available at www.mass.gov/mema/mobileappp.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA and Storm Preparedness, go to www.mass.gov/mema.

Also, continue to follow MEMA updates on Twitter; Facebook; and YouTube.

Photos of the Stow MRC volunteer recruitment and family preparedness promotion:

The International Institute of Greater Lawrence (IIGL), acting on behalf of the Emergency Preparedness Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), is seeking to retain a contractor to serve as MRC Coordinator to assist local boards of Health within the coalition to build a self-sustaining, trained, credentialed MRC of volunteers and integrate this corps into their local emergency plans; identify, train and manage volunteers. This individual will assist local public health within Metro West Boston (32 communities) in meeting Federal and State MRC grant deliverables. The selected candidate should be able to work independently with limited supervision and provide necessary transportation throughout all 32 communities in the Region. This is a 6 month contract position at $36,335; with no benefits provided. This contract position does have the possibility of renewal subject to funding and budget approval.

Additional information about the position and the application process are found here: MRC Coordinator RFP

This is a great series of videos for shelter volunteers

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA977EE75E55242DE&feature=plcp

A toolkit developed to help hospitals and public health agencies integrate volunteer support into hospital inpatient, emergency department, and incident response operations through deployment of "Just-in-time" training (JITT) and exercise curricula. A video summary is below:

Online training from the CDC:
Psychological First Aid in Radiation Disasters (Web Based)

The unique psychological aspects of mass casualty radiation disasters require an increased need for psychological first aid knowledge in the response community. Anyone who may respond to a radiation disaster, whether as a professional or as a volunteer must have an understanding of these aspects and how to best address them.

MA Region 4A MRC Conference May 5th!

You can download a flyer here: Region 4A MRC Conference

Please pre-register here

Looking forward to seeing you in May!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator

As featured on http://jama.ama-assn.org/, Medical Reserves Answer Call to Service

Hello Everyone!

We are pleased to announce the date of the Region 4A MRC conference which will be held on Saturday May 5th at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in 16 Crescent Street Stow, MA. We wanted you all to see the Program that has been planned and to ask you to pre-register for the conference.

We are very excited about our Speakers and trainers!

Our host will be Michael Gurnick Ashland MRC Chairman and MA Firefighting Academy Trainer

Our Key Note Speaker will be Dr. James Geiling who will discuss the Haiti Deployment Mobile Medical Hospitals, Altered Standards of care during a large scale disaster. Dr. Geiling will share the experiences of his deployment to Haiti during the aftermath of the earthquakes.

• Shelter Simulation Table top exercise
• MRC Leadership Training
• Field Triage
• Emotional Resilience Training Part 1

Lunch break and networking

• Field Triage
• Shelter Managers Course
• Emotional Resilience Training Part 2
• MRC Leadership Training
• SMART Training

We are planning to end the conference with a tour of the Firefighting Academy guided by Mike Gurnick, our host, followed by an awards ceremony.

Please pre-register here

We have had many wonderful volunteers and we would like to ask you all to nominate some members of Region MRC for recognition at the awards ceremony. You can click on this link to make a nomination: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XY7NDPF

You can download a flyer here: Region 4A MRC conference Save the Date PDF

Looking Forward to Seeing You All There!

Liisa Jackson
MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator

Dear MRC Leaders, Volunteers, and Colleagues,

As we approach the month of March, we are starting to think about the beginning of spring, spending more time outdoors, and becoming more physically active. As MRC volunteers and leaders, we know the importance of staying active and healthy--as individuals, and as communities. A great way to start getting active and to continue promoting the MRC's activities in our 10th anniversary year is with Let's Move!, a national initiative dedicated to reducing the childhood obesity within a generation. Let's Move! aims to reach that goal by helping children become more physically active, as well as by fostering environments that support healthy choices, providing healthier foods in our schools, and ensuring that every family has access to healthy, affordable food.

The MRC is in a unique position to mobilize its leaders, volunteers, and partners in spreading the word about the Let's Move! initiative by reaching out to local schools, community leaders and elected officials to engage them in addressing the problem of obesity in their communities. In fact, many MRC units have already been involved in Let's Move! activities, such as:

• Western Piedmont MRC (South Carolina) is partnering with a local high school group to plan and develop a Let's Move! project that will engage students in educating their peers about living healthier lifestyles.
• Clinton County MRC (Illinois) volunteers are working to create a community resource book of healthy recipes that will raise money to assist youth and seniors in joining local gyms.
• Fremont MRC (California) promoted Let's Move! at a local health festival by leading a one- mile fitness walk and distributing Let's Move! informational materials.
• UMass Amherst MRC (Massachusetts) participated in a Let's Move! event in which parents and children took part in a variety of activities demonstrating easy ways that families can incorporate 60 minutes of daily physical activity into their lives.
• North Alabama MRC developed a guidebook that provides hands-on nutrition education for 3-5 year olds, as well as monthly family health workshops, health screening events and ‘kick off' and ‘wrap up' celebrations. The program utilizes Sesame Street Foundation's "Health Habits for Life" guide, workshops and other resources.

These are just a few of the many Let's Move! activities the MRC network has been involved in, and we encourage you to help get your community moving and engaged in helping kids become more active, eat healthier and grow up healthy. To promote your own efforts to local media, please see the attached template press release for your To find more ideas, visit the Let's Move! Web site at http://www.letsmove.gov.

Rob

Robert J. Tosatto, RPh, MPH, MBA
CAPT, USPHS
Director, Division of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps
Office of the Surgeon General

Hello Everyone~

Region 5 has shared this training day with us, all classes are free and it is a wonderful opportunity to meet our partners in Region 5.

Download the registration Form here

Liisa Jackson

Celebrating 10th Anniversary of MRC
Saturday March 24, 2012
8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Duxbury Senior Center
10 Mayflower Street Duxbury, MA 02332

Morning Session (11:15 AM - 1:15 PM)

• Building Relationships for Effective Collaboration — JJ Durham
• CPR/AED/Choke saving: (Part 1) - Jean Roma
• Psychological First Aid — Lisa Kaufman
• MA Responds Overview — Lisa Crowner
• Bioterrorism Training — Dennis Swift
• Small Animal Handling and Pet First Aid — To Be Determined

Afternoon Session (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)

• Managing Everyday Conflict — JJ Durham
• CPR/AED/Choke saving (Part 2) - Jean Roma
• Home Preparedness Training — Lisa Kaufman
• PPE/Blood borne Pathogen Training — Lisa Crowner
• Social Media in a Disaster — Dennis Swift

Please bring laptops and iPads if available. Wi-Fi will be provided.

Contact hours will be available to Nurses, Medical Assistants, and EMTs for some courses

Tracy Mayo, RS, Health Agent
Town of Duxbury
878 Tremont Street
Duxbury, MA 02332
781-934-1100, Ext. 124

Happy New Year! This year marks the 10th anniversary of the creation of the Medical Reserve Corps, which was announced during President George W. Bush's 2002 State of the Union address, and officially launched as a demonstration project in July of 2002. Over these past ten years, we have seen the program grow to over 200,000 volunteers in almost 1,000 units across the country—ready to respond to emergencies and building resiliency in thousands of local communities through prevention, preparedness and public health activities.

As you know, MRC units can play a large role in carrying out the National Prevention Strategy, recognizing that good health comes not just from receiving quality medical care but from stopping disease before it starts. MRC units have met that challenge with public health activities ranging from flu vaccination clinics and smoking cessation initiatives to obesity prevention programs through the "Let's Move" campaign and Bodyworks, a program that targets parents and caregivers of adolescents as resources to improve family eating and activity behaviors.

We will commemorate and celebrate the MRC's 10th anniversary and our decade of accomplishments throughout the coming year, and we encourage you to get the word out in your communities as well. The anniversary year is a great opportunity to highlight your unit's activities and successes by reaching out to your local media, community leaders, and to prospective partners and volunteers. As part of our awareness plan, we intend to highlight National Health Observances that are tied to the MRC's prevention mission, such as the Great American Smokeout, National Nutrition Month, and National Hurricane Preparedness Week, and we will send you the upcoming observances for the month. You can also find them at this link: http://www.healthfinder.gov.

I encourage you to use our new 10th anniversary logo throughout the year-- on your website, email signature lines, and in printed materials. To access the logos, first log in to the MRC Member Resources site (www.medicalreservecorps.gov). Then, select the Logo Request/New Use option. Complete the short form that follows, and then, select and download the logo file(s) directly from the next page. As with the traditional MRC logo, please review the guidelines associated with the use of the MRC logo here.

With each public health activity, preparedness exercise, and emergency response, we are all making a difference in the health and safety of this Nation, and I look forward to growing our spirit, dedication, and commitment in 2012 and beyond.

Division of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps
5600 Fishers Lane, Rm 18C-14
Rockville, Maryland 20857
MRCcontact@hhs.gov
www.medicalreservecorps.gov