Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: November 6, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

County Update From the Storms of October 29-30, 2009

North Little Rock - The following counties have all announced their intentions to seek a disaster declaration as a result of the tornados, severe storms and flooding of October 29-30. The counties include (as of 4 p.m. on November 5): Arkansas, Carroll, Searcy, Baxter, Little River, Lee, Boone, Franklin, Marion, St. Francis, Van Buren, Jefferson, Ashley, Drew, Miller, Independence, Randolph, Greene, Lafayette, Columbia, Lawrence, Sharp, Fulton, Izard, Newton, Johnson, Cleburne, Logan, Scott, Jackson, Poinsett, Perry, Faulkner, Woodruff, White, Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Prairie, Monroe, Cross, Grant, Union, Bradley, Chicot, Dallas, Lincoln, Ouachita, Cleveland, and Calhoun.

“This is an informational announcement only at this stage, and should not be construed as an official notice of declaration,” said a spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management. “Damages are still being assessed,” the spokesperson said. “We will keep Arkansans aware of the situation. Today we just wanted to assure the citizens of the state that the process is ongoing and progressing through the proper channels as is mandatory when such situations as this occur.”

This information will be updated daily.

For more information on public assistance and individual assistance, please check the Disaster Recovery Block on the ADEM homepage (www.adem.arkansas.gov).

-END-

*Ashley County and Greene County are no longer seeking a disaster declaration.

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: November 7, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Process Uderway to Seek Federal Assistance

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) said Wednesday that Preliminary Damage Assessments will begin Monday, November 9 for the counties in the state that experienced damages as a result of the tornados, severe thunderstorms and flooding that began on October 29.

ADEM teams will be working with FEMA teams to complete the assessments as quickly as possible in order to ask for federal assistance for the state.

The following counties are seeking a disaster declaration (as of 8 a.m. on November 4): Lee, Boone, Franklin, Marion, St. Francis, Van Buren, Jefferson, Ashley, Drew, Miller, Independence, Randolph, Greene, Lafayette, Columbia, Conway, Lawrence, Sharp, Fulton, Izard, Newton, Johnson, Cleburne, Logan, Scott, Jackson, Poinsett, Perry, Faulkner, Woodruff, White, Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Prairie, Monroe, Cross, Grant, Union, Bradley, Chicot, Dallas, Lincoln, Ouachita, Cleveland, and Calhoun.

ADEM will keep Arkansans aware of the situation.

For more information on public assistance and individual assistance, please check the Disaster Recovery Block on the ADEM homepage (www.adem.arkansas.gov).

-END-

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state's homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies. For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700.

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Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: November 3, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

County Update From the Storms of October 29-30, 2009

North Little Rock - The following counties have all announced their intentions to seek a disaster declaration as a result of the tornados, severe storms and flooding of October 29-30. The counties include (as of 4 p.m. on November 3): Lee, Boone, Franklin, Marion, St. Francis, Van Buren, Jefferson, Ashley, Drew, Miller, Independence, Randolph, Greene, Lafayette, Columbia, Lawrence, Sharp, Fulton, Izard, Newton, Johnson, Cleburne, Logan, Scott, Jackson, Poinsett, Perry, Faulkner, Woodruff, White, Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Prairie, Monroe, Cross, Grant, Union, Bradley, Chicot, Dallas, Lincoln, Ouachita, Cleveland, and Calhoun.

This information will be updated daily.

For more information on public assistance and individual assistance, please check the Disaster Recovery Block on the ADEM homepage (www.adem.arkansas.gov).

-END-

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: October 29, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Woodruff County Eligible for State Individual Assistance

North Little Rock – Woodruff County is eligible for the state’s Individual Assistance Program as a part of Governor Mike Beebe’s declaration of additional state disaster areas, announced Thursday.

As a result of the declaration, rental assistance is available through the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) for eligible homeowners and renters whose primary residence was destroyed or made uninhabitable. Persons may apply for assistance by calling ADEM toll-free at 888-683-ADEM (2336). Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m., October 30 – November 13, 2009; excluding Veterans Day, November 11, 2009. In addition, assistance for eligible uninsured losses (i.e. repair or replacement of primary residence and transportation, replacement of essential personal property items) is available through the Individual and Family Grant Program. Please contact the local Arkansas Department of Human Services for more information regarding this program. Below is the contact information for Woodruff County.

Woodruff County Residents whose primary residence was damaged as a result of storms that began on October 10 may apply for temporary housing assistance by calling ADEM. Those seeking help with the Individual and Family Grant Program may contact the Woodruff County Department of Human Services at 1200 Hwy 33 North, Augusta (870) 347-2537.

These storms are not included in a federal disaster declaration. Please do not call the FEMA hotline for damages related to these storms as it is not eligible for FEMA assistance.

-END-

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Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: October 29, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Turn Around, Don’t Drowno:p>

North Little Rock – Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Nearly half of all flood fatalities are vehicle-related according to the National Weather Service.

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) urges people to learn the dangers of driving into flooded roadways because drivers often underestimate the power of floodwater. Roads weaken under floodwater and drivers should proceed cautiously after waters have receded, since the road may collapse under the weight of the vehicle.

Twelve inches of water will float many vehicles.
Two feet of rushing water will carry away most vehicles, including pick-up trucks and sport utility vehicles.
Water across a road may hide a missing segment of roadbed or a missing bridge.
Because disaster can strike at any time, ADEM encourages everyone to have a disaster supply kit in their home and vehicle.

When there’s water on the road: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Saving your life is as simple as choosing an alternate route. If you are driving and your vehicle stalls in flood water, the best advice is to get out quickly and move to higher ground.

-END-

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Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: October 21, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Counties Eligible for State Individual Assistance Program

North Little Rock - Columbia, Lafayette and Nevada counties are eligible for the state’s Individual Assistance Program as a part of Governor Mike Beebe’s declaration of state disaster areas, announced Tuesday.

As a result of the declaration, rental assistance is available through the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) for eligible homeowners and renters whose primary residence was destroyed or made uninhabitable. Persons may apply for assistance by calling ADEM toll-free at 888-683-ADEM (2336). Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m., October 22 – November 4, 2009. In addition, assistance for eligible uninsured losses (i.e. repair or replacement of primary residence and transportation, replacement of essential personal property items) is available through the Individual and Family Grant Program. Please contact the local Arkansas Department of Human Services for more information regarding this program. Below is a list of the declared counties and contact information.

Columbia County

Residents whose primary residence was damaged as a result of storms that began on October 8 may apply for temporary housing assistance by calling ADEM. Those seeking help with the Individual and Family Grant Program may contact the Columbia County Department of Human Services at 601 East University, Magnolia (870-234-4190).

Lafayette County

Residents whose primary residence was damaged as a result of storms that began on October 8 may apply for temporary housing assistance by calling ADEM. Those seeking help with the Individual and Family Grant Program may contact the Lafayette County Department of Human Services at 2612 Spruce Street, Lewisville (870-921-4283).

Nevada County

Residents whose primary residence was damaged as a result of storms that began on October 8 may apply for temporary housing assistance by calling ADEM. Those seeking help with the Individual and Family Grant Program may contact the Nevada County Department of Human Services at355 West 1^st Street, Prescott (870-887-6626).

These storms are not included in a federal disaster declaration. Please do not call the FEMA hotline for damages related these storms as it is not eligible for FEMA assistance.

-END-

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Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: October 19, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

DAVID MAXWELL NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE

NATIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION

North Little Rock - David Maxwell, director of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) as well as the state’s Homeland Security Adviser, is the new president of the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA). Maxwell was elected at the 35^th annual conference of NEMA held October 9-13 in Columbus, Ohio. He will serve until October of 2010 and be the host of the national conference that will be held in Little Rock, a year from now. After his term as president, he will serve as an advisor to the next president.

NEMA is the professional association of and for emergency management directors from all 50 states as well as eight territories and the District of Columbia. The Association provides national leadership and expertise in comprehensive emergency management.

“I am both excited and honored to begin this year as the President of NEMA,” Maxwell said. “I look forward to working as a team, not only with my fellow members of NEMA, but also with the new federal administration, and certainly our partners at the local level. We will stress the importance of personal preparedness for all citizens, especially emphasizing neighbors helping neighbors as true first responders during a disaster or emergency, and my hope is to make great strides along those lines.”

Maxwell was appointed as ADEM Director on June 30, 2006 after serving as the agency’s Deputy Director from 2002-2006. Overall he has 31 years of service with the agency.

As Director, Maxwell chairs the Arkansas Homeland Security Executive Committee and serves on the Arkansas Terrorism Task Force, Arkansas Governor’s Earthquake Advisory Council, Arkansas Fire Protection Board, State Emergency Response Commission (SERC), Arkansas Wireless Information Network (AWIN) Executive Committee, Arkansas Tech Emergency Administration and Management Citizens Advisory Council, and Pine Bluff Arsenal Citizen Advisory Commission. David also serves as Vice Chair on the Board of Directors of the Central United States Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC).

In 1978, he began his career in emergency management working in temporary housing for the State after major flooding in Little Rock and was promoted to Planning Specialist in 1980. Later he advanced to ADEM’s Plans and Operations Division Manager. In that capacity, he ensured the State Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and local jurisdictional plans were maintained and in compliance with state and federal guidelines. Mr. Maxwell led the division in its mission of coordinating state response and recovery operations, collaborating with federal and local governments, and volunteer agencies with disaster response or recovery responsibilities. Maxwell served as the designated State Coordinating Officer for seven federally declared disasters and one federally declared emergency. In the past 18 months alone under Maxwell’s watch, the state has seen a total of eight federally declared disasters.

Maxwell has a Master’s Degree in Sociology from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia with a Bachelor’s Degree from Arkansas Tech University. David and his wife Lauren reside in Conway.

-END-

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 16, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

AR Geological Survey: (501) 296-1877

Additional Earthquake Monitors to be Deployed in Central Arkansas

North Little Rock – Two temporary seismic stations are being deployed to monitor the Cleburne, Faulkner and Van Buren tri-county area where four small earthquakes, ranging from magnitude 2.7 to 2.8, have occurred over the past 48 hours. The small tremors were felt by several area residents and detected by the Arkansas Seismic Network (ASN).

The Arkansas Geological Survey (AGS), The Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI) at the University of Memphis and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) are cooperating to better understand the source of these small tremors and will be monitoring the area this weekend. The additional seismic stations will aid in locating the horizontal and vertical center (hypocenter) of any additional small earthquakes that may occur over the next few days. Identifying the precise location of earthquakes in this manner helps define the size, orientation and other characteristics of the source area.

There is no scientific evidence to connect these recent earthquakes with the New Madrid seismic zone of Northeast Arkansas, where the earthquake threat is well known.

The ASN currently has three interim seismic stations that were deployed this year. This network, when completed, will be comprised of six high-resolution broadband instruments designed to monitor earthquake activity across Arkansas.

Additional information on earthquakes and the ASN can be found at the following websites:

http://www.geology.ar.gov/geohazards/earthquakes.htm

http://www.geology.arkansas.gov/home/news.htm

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov

-END-

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Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: September 1, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

National Preparedness Month to be Observed in Arkansas

North Little Rock – September is National Preparedness Month and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) encourages citizens to be prepared for any type of disaster.

ADEM Director David Maxwell says that it is important for Arkansans to prepare for disaster.

“Protecting ourselves in a disaster starts with planning. This year in Arkansas we have seen ice storms, floods and devastating tornadoes. It is important for all citizens to remember that preparedness starts at home. By taking a few simple steps we can all be better prepared.”

The following actions are recommended by the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management:

1. Prepare a personal or family disaster plan. The plan should include a meeting place where you can go if you are separated during a disaster and an out-of-state contact to notify by telephone. Once you reach your point of contact, you should stay off the telephone. For more information on Family Disaster Plans, visit www.adem.arkansas.gov.

2. Prepare a disaster supply kit. The kit should include food and water to sustain you and your family for 72 hours (don’t forget pets), a first aid kit, a change of clothing, tools to turn off water and gas lines, and copies of important documents. A large kit should be kept in the house and a smaller kit should be placed in the trunk of each vehicle you own.

3. Be Informed. An important step to preparing for disaster is being aware of the potential of specific emergencies in your area. Arkansas has a wide range of potential emergencies and it is important that citizens are informed about all possibilities.

-END-

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: June 12, 2009 (7:00 p.m.)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

ARKANSAS STORM UPDATE

North Little Rock – Several Arkansas counties reported storm damage as a line of heavy thunderstorms, possible tornadoes and straight line winds moved across the state.

The following counties reported damage:

Crawford County:

Local Emergency Manager reported storm damages to the southeast portion of the county. The city of Kibler reported trees down and power outages. The city of Van Buren also has power lines down. An estimated four homes have damage.

Newton County:

Local Emergency Manager reported there were four Jasper city streets with trees down. City crews are clearing damage. No injuries or other damages were immediately reported.

Conway County:

Local Emergency Manager reported a touchdown of a tornado north of Hwy 95 in the St Vincent / Wonderview area. An estimated fifteen homes have damage.

Perry County:

Local Emergency Manager reported debris down in the Harris Brake area of the county. No other information was immediately available.

Johnson County:

Local Emergency Manager reported extensive storm damage to the city of Clarksville and the eastern portion of the county. Debris has been reported across several Hwy 64, Hwy 21, Hwy 103 and Hwy 315. Power lines are down in multiple parts of the county. An estimated five homes with damage.

Yell County:

Local Emergency Manager reported power lines and tree limbs down west of Danville. It is unknown how many are without power. No known injuries or road blocks at the reported time.

Pope County:

Local Emergency Manager reported large tree down across I-40 between mm 97 and 98 in the eastbound lane. An estimated of 50 homes in Atkins have damage.

Franklin County:

Local Emergency Manager reported power lines down in down town Ozark and Altus. There are an unknown amount of people without power. No injuries or roadblocks reported.

Pulaski County:

Local Emergency Manager reported trees and power lines down as well as structure damages.

Sebastian County:

Local Emergency Manager reported trees and power lines down as well as structure damages.

Faulkner County:

Local Emergency Manager reported damage throughout the county.

White County:

Local Emergency Manager reported damage throughout the county.

Scott County:

Local Emergency Manager reported damage throughout the county.

Crittenden County:

Local Emergency Manager reported power outages throughout the county.

Lonoke County:

Local Emergency Manager reported and estimated ten homes were damaged along with several barns. There are numerous power lines and trees down.

Woodruff County:

Local Emergency Manager reported trees and power lines down across the county, no structural damage at this time.

Jackson County:

Local Emergency Manager reported trees and power lines down across the county.

St. Francis County:

Local Emergency Manager reported power lines and trees down across the county. There are an estimated twelve structures with minor damage.

Cross County:

Local Emergency Manager reported minor damages to two homes.

Van Buren County:

Local Emergency Manager reported power lines and trees down in Damascus. An estimated two homes and two barns have damage.

Updates will be issued as information is received

-END-

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: June 12, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

ARKANSAS STORM UPDATE

North Little Rock - Several counties across the state were reporting storm damage at mid-afternoon Friday as a line of heavy thunderstorms producing winds in excess of 70 miles per hour, torrential rains and hail are moving through the state.

The following counties reported damage:

Crawford County:

Local Emergency Manager reports storm damages to the southeast portion of the county. The city of Kibler reported trees down and power outages. The city of Van Buren also has power lines down.

Newton County:

Local Emergency Manager reports there were four Jasper city streets with trees down. City crews are cleaning the damage. No injuries or other damages were immediately reported.

Conway County:

Local Emergency Manager reports a touchdown of a tornado north of Hwy 95 in the St Vincent / Wonderview.

Perry County:

Local Emergency Manager reports debris down in the Harris Brake area of the county. A tree was reported to have fallen onto a double trailer. No other information was immediately available.

Johnson County:

Local Emergency Manager reports extensive storm damage to the city of Clarksville and the eastern portion of the county. Debris has been reported across several Hwy 64, Hwy 21, Hwy 103 and Hwy 315. Power lines are down in multiple parts of the county.

Yell County:

Local Emergency Manager reports power lines and tree limbs down west of Danville. It is unknown how many are without power. No known injuries or road blocks at the reported time.

Pope County:

Local Emergency Manager reports large tree down across I-40 between mm 97 and 98 in the eastbound lane.

Franklin County:

Local Emergency Manager reports power lines down in down town Ozark and Altus. There are an unknown amount of people without power. No injuries or roadblocks reported.

Pulaski County:

Local Emergency Manager reported trees and power lines down as well as structure damages.

Sebastian County:

Local Emergency Manager reports trees and power lines down as well as structure damages.

Faulkner County:

Local Emergency Manager reports damage county wide due to a severe thunderstorm.

White County:

Local Emergency Manager reports damage throughout the county.

Updates will be issued as information is received

-END-

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

RELEASE DATE: May 26, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Flood Safety

The on-again, off-again heavy rainfall the state has experienced the past several days has tragically resulted in numerous drowning deaths.

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) reminds residents of the following:

Don’t walk or play in a flooded area. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down.
Keep away from downed power lines and any other electrical wires – electrocution is often a major cause of death in floods.
Watch out for animals that have lost their homes during a flood. Animals may seek shelter in your home and aggressively defend themselves.

More people drown in their cars than anywhere else during a flood. The safest rule that motorists can follow is: “Turn Around and Don’t Drown!”

Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control.
Twelve inches of water will float many vehicles.
Two feet of rushing water will carry away most vehicles including pick-up trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUV).
Water across a road may hide a missing segment of roadbed or a missing bridge.

Because disaster can strike at any time, ADEM encourages everyone to have a disaster supply kit in their home and vehicle. For additional information on how you can protect yourself in a disaster, contact your local emergency manager.

-END-

Six additional Arkansas counties are eligible for Individual Assistance due to severe storms, high winds and flooding that began on April 27. Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Cleburne, Grant and Union join Clark, Dallas, Garland, Jefferson, Lonoke, Miller, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett and Saline counties as jurisdictions that the Governor Mike Beebe declared eligible for state assistance.

Rental assistance is available through the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) for eligible homeowners and renters whose primary residence was destroyed or made uninhabitable. Persons may apply for assistance by calling ADEM toll-free at 888-683-ADEM (2336). Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m., May 22-June 5. In addition, assistance for eligible uninsured losses (i.e. repair or replacement of primary residence and transportation, replacement of essential personal property items) is available through the Individual and Family Grant Program. Please contact the local Arkansas Department of Human Services for more information regarding this program. Below is a list of the declared counties and contact information.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 9, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

Severe Weather Planning for Arkansans

North Little Rock – With the threat of severe weather this week it pays for Arkansans to know what to do in advance.

Basic preparedness plans should be in place at home, at work and at school and each family member or employee should understand the plan. When a severe storm or tornado strikes, there may be only a few seconds to react and find shelter.

The first step in preparedness is to ensure you have a reliable method of receiving weather information including TV, radio and NOAA weather radio, plus a back-up system if one goes out. Battery powered equipment and extra batteries should be a part of the plan.

Shelter areas should be designated at home, work and school; whether they are in basements below ground level, ground level windowless rooms, or interior hallways on the lowest floor. Protect yourself from flying debris with blankets, sleeping bags or mattresses.

If you are in a vehicle, mobile home or portable classroom, move quickly to a strong building for shelter. If there is no shelter, lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression. Do not take shelter in a structure with a high, wide roof such as an auditorium, gym or shopping mall.

Choose a person to telephone outside your city to let others know you are safe and choose a place for family members to meet if your neighborhood and home are damaged or destroyed.

Create a disaster supply kit and keep it in your shelter area. Kits should be created for home, work, school and a mobile kit should be kept in your vehicle.

-END-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEp>

February 6, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

CALL CENTER FOR ARKANSANS AFFECTED BY ICE STORM ANNOUNCE OPERATIONS CHANGE

North Little Rock –The State of Arkansas has announced the call center established during the past week to provide and receive information from citizens impacted by the recent ice storm will begin operating under a schedule of 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. effective Sunday, February 8.

Specifically, the State wants to hear from residents of northern Arkansas who have experienced problems with their homes as a result of the recent ice storm which at its peak left more than 310,000 Arkansans without power. The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is asking persons to call if they have experienced any of the following problems:

*Home damage due to the storm

*Accessibility to home was prevented due to fallen trees and limbs

* Frozen water pipes that have burst and left their residence flooded

The number for residents to call is 1-888-683-ADEM (1-888-683-2336.). Citizens who use a TTY (teletypewriter) phone and need to report damage may do so by calling 2-1-1, the state’s referral and information system and their information will be relayed to the phone bank.  If lines are busy, the caller will get a busy signal and is asked to try again.

-END-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 4, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

TTY LINE ESTABLISHED FOR CALL CENTER

North Little Rock – Persons with TTY (teletypewriter) phones who have storm damages at their residences from the ice storm are being asked to contact 2-1-1, the state's information and referral system which will in turn relay the information to the state's new call center that was announced Tuesday.

The call center is for persons who have ice-storm damage to their homes. The number is (888) 683-2336 and the hours are 7 days a week, 8a.m.-8p.

-END-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE/span>

February 3, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

CALL CENTER ESTABLISHED FOR ARKANSANS AFFECTED BY ICE STORM

North Little Rock – The State of Arkansas is announcing the establishment of a new call center that became operational on Tuesday, February 3 and will be in operation seven days a week, from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. The call center is to provide and receive information from citizens impacted by the storm.

Specifically, the State wants to hear from residents of northern Arkansas who have experienced problems with their homes as a result of the recent ice storm which at its peak left more than 310,000 Arkansans without power. The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is asking persons to call if they have experienced any of the following problems:

· Home Damage due to the storm

· Accessibility to home was prevented due to fallen trees and limbs

· Frozen water pipes that have burst and left the residence flooded

The number for residents to call is 1-888-683-ADEM (1-888-683-2336). If lines are busy, the caller will get a busy signal and is asked to try again.

-END-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 1, 2009

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

2009 ICE STORM ASSISTANCE INFORMATION

North Little Rock – The State Emergency Operations Center is continuing to process requests from the counties affected by the ice storm on January 26^th. Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) are taking place in each affected county to determine damage totals. If individuals have experienced damage please report it to the local emergency manager.

Listed below are specific assistance call centers. For assistance with items not listed please contact Arkansas 211 by dialing 2-1-1 or 866-489-6983.

· Arkansas Red Cross: Shelter and Feeding Centers

o Call 1-866-GET INFO (1-866-438-4636)

· Arkansas Department of Health: Boil Water Status, Special Medical Needs

o Call 1-800-651-3493, 7a.m. – 7p.m.

o NOTE: For individuals calling because of Special Medical Needs: ADH will supply individuals with a list of local places to get resources.

o AS ALWAYS IF IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IS NEEDED INDIVIDUALS SHOULD CONTACT THEIR PHYSICIAN, LOCAL SHELTER OR HOSPITAL.

· Arkansas Insurance Department: Consumer inquiries

o Phone: (501) 371-2640, (800) 852-5494, Fax: (501) 371-2749

o Email: insurance.consumers@arkansas.gov

· Entergy: Outage Updates and Other Issues

o 1-800-9-OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243) to report an outage and get updates on current outages.

Ice Storm Entergy Customer Information Center Locations

Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, including Sunday

Blytheville Blytheville Police Department Municipal Courtroom 201 W. Walnut	Monette Monette City Hall 612 Finch Avenue	Harrison Harrison Youth Center 202 South Spring Street
Mountain Home Mountain Home City Hall 720 S. Hickory Street	Mountain View Stone County Courthouse	Flippin Flippin City Hall 239 East Main
Highland Highland City Hall 1662 Hwy 62/412	Batesville Entergy Arkansas Office 450 South 11th Street	Newport Chamber of Commerce 201 Hazel Street

-END-

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 30, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
ADEM Public Information, 501-683-6700

ADEM ENCOURAGES CONTRACTORS TO REGISTER WITH FEMA

North Little Rock – If any contractor or vendor is interested in providing services to persons impacted by the January 26, 2009 ice storm, they are encouraged to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“We are pleased with the outpouring of emails and phone calls from fellow Arkansans offering disaster assistance during this time,” Richard Griffin, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management’s State Coordinating Officer said. “We ask that anyone interested in contracting out his/her services or desiring to become a vendor should register with FEMA.”

Contractors and vendors can log onto http://www.fema.gov/business/contractor.shtm to read general information on the following or contact the Industry Liaison Desk at FEMA-Industry@dhs.gov or (202) 646-1895.

Contracts, grants, small business opportunities, research and development and contacts.
Debris removal information and resource capabilities for contractors
Procedures on updating contractor information
Information on sharing products and services

-END-

IMMEDIATE RELEASEspan style="mso-tab-count:4">

January 30, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
ADEM Public Information, 501-683-6700

USE CARE WHEN HIRING CONTRACTORS

North Little Rock – If you were affected by the January 26, 2009 ice storm you should be aware that some unscrupulous contractors might try to take advantage of you.

“If you have disaster-related damages, I urge you to be very careful when contracting for repairs,” David Maxwell, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Director said. “I do not want you to become a victim a second time or at all.”

Disaster officials caution residents not to sign contracts or make down payments without first receiving written estimates from contractors and to avoid offers which seem too good to refuse. People should ask for references and check with the references before deciding which contractor to choose.

““Be especially alert for door-to-door solicitors who ask for large cash deposits or entire payments in advance. We highly recommend that you do not make cash payments.” Maxwell said. “Sometimes the work is never performed and nor is the down payment returned.”

Residents may be able to check with local permit officials, builder associations, and the Better Business Bureau if they have questions about specific contractors. ADEM officials also suggest that ice storm victims call the Arkansas State Attorney General’s Consumer Protection number, 1-800-482-8982 or (501) 682-2007/span>, or visit the web site at http://ag.arkansas.gov, if they have concerns about people misrepresenting themselves as contractors.&

“You should also remember that state and federal employees as well as federal contract workers do not charge victims for their services,” Maxwell said. “If someone posing as a state or federal employee or federal contractor, attempts to collect money for his/her help, please report the person and the vehicle number to your local police department.”

Federal employees carry official photo identification and applicants may receive a visit from more than one inspector or verifier.pan style="mso-spacerun:yes"> If someone represents themselves as a federal employee but does not produce identification residents are urged to ask to see it.

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IMMEDIATE RELEASEpan style="mso-tab-count:4">

January 29, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
ADEM Public Information, 501-683-6700

ADEM Encourages Safety Precautions During Power Outage

North Little Rock--All too often when there is a power outage as many Arkansans are now experiencing, there will either be deaths or serious illness due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death.

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) says that CO is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing it. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. High levels of CO inhalation can cause loss of consciousness and death. Unless suspected, CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms mimic other illnesses. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.

During a power outage when persons still need to heat homes and cook, ADEM cautions residents as follows:

Never use a gas range or oven for heating. Using a gas range or oven for heating can cause a buildup of CO inside your home, cabin, or camper.
Never use a charcoal grill or a barbecue grill indoors. Using a grill indoors will cause a buildup of CO inside your home, cabin, or camper unless you use it inside a vented fireplace
Never burn charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal — red, gray, black, or white — gives off CO.
Never use a portable gas camp stove indoors. Using a gas camp stove indoors can cause CO to build up inside your home, cabin, or camper.
Never use a generator inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window, door, or vent.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 27, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

ARKANSAS SITUATION UPDATE

North Little Rock - The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management has activated the State’s Emergency Operations Center in response to winter weather activity. Government officials and emergency responders are working to fill requests for assistance.

This is an evolving situation, and information may change rapidly. As of 11:00a.m. Tuesday morning the situation was as follows:

· 9 counties have declared a local emergency.

· One death has been confirmed in Benton County and a second was confirmed by Arkansas State Police in Pulaski County.

· More than 56,000 homes have been reported without power across the state. This number is subject to change very quickly.

· Most of the counties affected are reporting hazardous roadways and power outages.

· Several organizations are working to supply resources and manpower to the areas hardest hit.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE/p>

January 26, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

ADEM Public Information: (501) 683-6700

AR Geological Survey: (501) 296-1877

Earthquakes in Arkansas

North Little Rock –The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is reminding Arkansans to be aware and prepared after today’s Magnitude 2.9, 2.2 and 2.0 earthquakes in Lawrence County.

Though this area is not associated with the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), fairly frequent earthquakes occur at irregular intervals throughout this area with “felt” earthquakes occurring every few years. While earthquakes that occur in this area are typically minor, a greater magnitude earthquake along the NMSZ could result in significant loss of life and property damages in the billions of dollars.

ADEM and the Arkansas Geological Survey encourage all citizens who felt the recent earthquakes to log onto Did You Feel It (http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/dyfi/) to report what they felt. Once logged on, click on the state of Arkansas, to complete the report.

For more information about earthquakes in Arkansas go to the Arkansas Geological Survey’s website (http://www.geology.arkansas.gov) and look under geohazards.

ADEM encourages every citizen to have a family emergency plan in place for any disaster, including an earthquake. For information on disaster supply kits go to www.adem.arkansas.gov.

Earthquake Awareness Week is February 2-6, 2009. There is information on ADEM’s website of events throughout the state. For more information about what your county is doing to prepare for earthquakes please contact your local county coordinator.

The Arkansas Geological Survey (AGS) provides the State of Arkansas geological information in order to develop and enable effective management of the State’s mineral, fossil fuel and water resources while protecting the environment. In this AGS monitors and is the State expert on Earthquakes, Landslides, Land Subsidence and Expansive Soils. For additional information, contact AGS at (501) 296-1877 or visit the website at www.geology.arkansas.gov.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 3, 2008