Resources for Heat, Smoke & Fire from 211info
originally published by ORVOAD Member 211info on 7/30/24
Calling 211 is the fastest way to find local clean air spaces and cooling centers. We provide swift connections to essential resources, support services, and up-to-date local information. Our specially trained teams are available 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring our database is timely and accurate and that a live person helps each caller. Interpreter services are available in over 240 languages. Anyone can get help anytime by calling 211.
How Calling 211 Can Help During Extreme Heat & Wildfires
As a nonprofit contact center, 211info can serve as the “front desk” for agencies to help relay important information like shelter and center locations, hours, and availability during emergencies. We can also help coordinate transportation using available local options, as directed by local agencies.
Our trained specialists are available 24/7, are familiar with local resources, and have access to interpretation services in over 240 languages. Anyone can get help anytime by calling 211.
DURING DISASTER OR EMERGENCY
During declared emergencies, 211info partners with the Oregon Office of Resilience and Emergency Management to coordinate additional services as they become available. These may include assistance in coordinating transportation to shelters, facilitating data collection, and sharing donation and volunteer opportunities with the public.
BEFORE & AFTER DISASTER OR EMERGENCY
In addition to helping callers who need immediate assistance, 211info guides individuals and communities on what to do before and after disasters.
211info can help callers navigate preventive resources from City, County, State, Tribal Offices of Emergency Services, and Federal Emergency Management Agency Offices to plan and prepare for emergencies, and also text or email links to critical advisories and warnings.
After the danger has passed, 211info connects individuals and communities to resources that help them recover from the physical, financial, and emotional impacts of disasters and emergencies. Our database includes vetted and accurate disaster recovery programs, including resources for food replacement, disaster clean up, and more to help people return to normal after an event.
Extreme Heat & Smoke Resources
211info maintains county-specific information about resources available to the community during extreme heat and wildfire smoke impacts. Our site is updated daily and encompasses local and regional resource information for Oregon and SW Washington, provided in partnership with locally based emergency management partners.
Some resources address immediate needs, while others are designed to prepare people for heat or smoke emergencies in advance. Planning and preparedness resources are not quick fixes for emergencies as they occur but are intended to help prevent the dangers of extreme temperatures and poor air quality before they arise.
Extreme heat and smoke information and resources in our database may include:
- Cooling centers and clean air centers
- Splash pads, misting stations, and swimming facilities
- Libraries, parks, recreation centers, senior centers, day-time drop-in centers
- Drinking fountains and water distribution facilities
- Benefits assistance programs offering air conditioners, air purifiers, mini-refrigerators, power supply for medical devices, and more.
- Utility assistance payment relief programs
- Air quality information and alerts
Wildfire Resources
During active wildfires, 211info maintains county-specific information about evacuations, emergency orders, and shelter options to help callers be prepared and stay safe. In addition, we can provide information about:
- Programs to protect animals
- Temporary financial assistance
- Disaster mental health services
- Public safety power shut-offs
- Emergency alerting systems
- Air quality information and alerts
HAVE YOU BEEN AFFECTED BY THE 2024 OREGON WILDFIRES?
The Oregon Department of Human Services, Office of Resiliency and Emergency Management, has launched a new self-referral platform to help community members meet their disaster-recovery needs. Timelines for service are not immediate and are not a substitute for people in immediate danger or those who need to evacuate. There are two ways to access wildfire recovery help:
Call: 1-833-669-0554 (open 24 hours)
Online Form: https://uniteus.com/oregonwildfires
Act Now: 4 Easy Ways to Plan & Prepare for Emergencies
1. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts: It takes 2 minutes to register for Oregon Statewide Emergency Alerts. Each county has its own system, and this site helps you sign up for the right alerts. Remember to register for alerts where you live and work. Find your local alert system at: https://oralert.gov/. If you’re in Washington State, sign up for local alerts here.
2. Create a Wildfire Preparedness Plan: Especially if you live in rural or forested areas, and keep a close watch on the State of Oregon Fires & Hotspots Dashboard. You may also consider participating in the OR/WA Rural Fire Readiness program.
3. Plan for Public Service Power Shutoffs (PSPS): Utility providers may turn off the power in extreme weather or wildfire conditions, which could last several hours or days. Prepare in advance and have a plan for what to do in power outages.
4. Access Local Resources: To find information on programs, services, and other resources related to extreme heat, smoke, or wildfire that may be available in your area: CALL 211 (can also text zip code to 898211, or email help@211info.org).
For Service Providers
Are you a service provider who offers cooling resources, clean air space, or other emergency-related resources? If so, please make sure your information is up to date in our database. Visit our Provider Tools page to get started, or contact our Resource Department at support@211info.org.