public safety

Flash Floods — Keeping Safe in Rapidly Rising Flood Waters

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Car submerged in flood waters.

Flash floods can strike with little warning and devastating force. This summer’s catastrophic flash floods in central Texas — where more than 100 lives were lost over the July 4th weekend — remind us how quickly deadly waters can form and sweep away everything in their path. The communities of Uncas Health District and its river valleys, brooks, and low‐lying areas can flood just as rapidly when heavy storms stall overhead. Understanding where you’re most vulnerable and how to respond can mean the difference between life and death.

If You Hear a Flash Flood Warning

A Flash Flood Warning means flooding is already occurring or imminent. Do not wait — act immediately:

  • Move to higher ground. Even a few feet of elevation can save your life.
  • Avoid floodwaters. Do not walk, swim, or drive through moving water. Six inches can knock you off your feet; two feet can carry away most vehicles.
  • Tune in. Use NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or smartphone alerts for updates.
  • Check on neighbors. Especially those who are elderly, disabled, or may not receive alerts.
  • If roads are blocked, turn around and find an alternate route—never attempt to “beat the water.”

Preparing in Advance: Build Your Flash Flood Response

By planning now, you’ll be ready to move fast when storms hit. Consider these steps:

  • Know your flood risk. Consult FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps or your town’s floodplain manager to see if your property lies in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
  • Create an emergency kit. Include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents sealed in waterproof bags.
  • Establish an evacuation plan. Identify higher-ground shelters, safe routes (avoiding known low bridges and dips), and a family meeting spot.
  • Elevate critical utilities. Move appliances, heating systems, and electrical panels above the expected flood depth.
  • Purchase flood insurance. Standard homeowners’ policies don’t cover flood damage, and NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period, so act early.
  • Stay connected. Sign up for CTAlert and your town’s local emergency notifications.
  • Practice your plan once or twice a year so everyone knows what to do without hesitation.

Flash flood warning sign

What Not to Do During Flash Flooding

Avoid these common — but-potentially-deadly mistakes:

  • Don’t drive into flooded roadways. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” isn’t just a slogan—it saves lives.
  • Don’t underestimate shallow water. Even a foot of fast-moving water can carry away a small SUV.
  • Don’t walk near culverts or storm drains. Currents can sweep you under in seconds.
  • Don’t let children play near rushing brooks. What looks like a fun stream can turn into a drowning hazard.
  • Don’t wait for official evacuation orders if water is rising fast — local responders may not reach every neighborhood in time.

Stay Vigilant and Prepared

Flash flooding is a natural hazard that can happen extremely fast, and as extreme precipitation events become more frequent, the risks grow. By understanding the specific vulnerabilities in the area, heeding official warnings, and preparing in advance, you’ll be ready to protect yourself, your family, and your community. When storms roll in, remember the lessons of the tragedy in Texas: swift water is immensely powerful, and seconds count. Stay safe, stay informed, and move to higher ground without delay when floods threaten.

National Safety Month: Simple Steps for a Safe June (and Beyond!)

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girl wearing doctor uniform holding first kit

June is National Safety Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about preventing injuries and accidents. But safety shouldn’t be confined to just one month — here are some easy-to-implement tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe all year round.

Be Prepared with a First-Aid Kit

Accidents happen. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit readily available at home, in the car, or at work can make a big difference in treating minor injuries. Review the contents of your kit regularly and replace expired items.

Safety First at Work

If your job involves potentially hazardous conditions, following safety guidelines is paramount. This includes wearing high-visibility clothing in low-light environments, using proper footwear with good traction, and ensuring all equipment is functioning correctly before operating it. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you see unsafe practices – your voice can prevent accidents.

Road Safety

While it’s always important to practice safe and cautious driving, June is a month to remember that school is out — kids will be out playing, there is an increase in road work — which can put workers at risk of injury or death, and motorcycles are out — but are often less visible than most other vehicles on the road.

Reduce Risks

Sometimes, the best safety measure is simply removing potential hazards. Take a look around your home and workplace. Are there loose cords, tripping hazards, or cluttered walkways? By keeping your environment organized and clutter-free, you significantly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls.

Prepare for Emergencies

Disasters can strike at any time. Being prepared can minimize stress and confusion in the face of an emergency. Work with your family to create an emergency plan that outlines evacuation routes, communication strategies, and meeting locations. Regularly update your plan and conduct practice drills to ensure everyone knows what to do.

By incorporating these simple steps into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries for yourself and those around you. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility – let’s all work together to make every month a safe month!

Bonus Tip: National Safety Council (https://www.nsc.org/) offers a wealth of resources on safety in the workplace, at home, and on the road. Take some time this June to explore their website and learn more about how you can stay safe!

Lamont Extends Severe Cold Weather Protocol Through Friday

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thermometer showing freezing temperatures.

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to an updated weather forecast indicating that the current stretch of frigid conditions Connecticut is experiencing will continue for at least another day, he is extending the duration of the state’s severe cold weather protocol to remain in effect until 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025.

The protocol, which went into effect on Monday, January 6, was originally set to expire on the afternoon of Thursday, January 9.

While activated, the protocol initiates a series of actions to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life-threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time.

Shelters and warming centers are open throughout Connecticut. Anyone in need of a place to stay warm can be directed to nearby locations by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list of available options that has been published online at 211ct.org. Transportation can be provided to a shelter or warming center if needed.

In Norwich, St. Vincent DePaul Place will be open for homeless individuals in the Norwich area Monday through Saturday 6:30 am-4:00 pm. The facility provides food, seasonal clothing, access to wireless internet, and access to showers and laundry facilities.

Helpful Tips to Enjoy a Safe and Healthy Halloween

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Kids trick or treat. Halloween fun for children.
Halloween is exciting — especially for kids. There are costumes, events, decorations, and, of course, candy. Though it’s an exciting time, it’s also important to make safe and healthy choices while enjoying these holiday festivities. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, attending a Halloween party, or handing out candy at home, here are some tips to make sure your Halloween is both fun and safe for everyone.
 

Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips

Costumes, candy, and nighttime adventures are all part of the fun, but they come with risks that can be managed with some simple precautions:

  • Choose well-fitting, flame-resistant costumes: Ill-fitting costumes can be a tripping hazard, and some materials are more flammable than others. Always check labels for flame resistance to minimize fire risk from candles or other decorations.
  • Increase visibility: If your child’s costume is dark, add reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark stickers to both the costume and their treat bag. This makes them easier to spot for drivers and others in the dark. Light-colored costumes are a safer choice for visibility.
  • Opt for face paint instead of masks: Masks can obstruct your child’s vision and breathing. If you choose to use a mask, ensure it has large eyeholes and good airflow.
  • Stay together: For younger children, it’s best to accompany them while trick-or-treating. If your children are older and trick-or-treating without an adult, ensure they go in groups and stick to familiar neighborhoods.
  • Use safe routes: Only trick-or-treat at well-lit homes with decorations. If a house has its lights off, it’s a sign they aren’t participating in Halloween activities.
  • Inspect candy: Before allowing your child to indulge in their candy haul, inspect everything to ensure it’s properly sealed. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking candy.

Halloween Candy and Healthy Eating Habits

While candy is synonymous with Halloween, it’s important to encourage healthy eating habits even during this festive time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the average American child consumes between 3,500 and 7,000 calories of candy on Halloween. Overconsumption of sweets can lead to long-term health issues, such as obesity, tooth decay, and diabetes. However, with a few smart strategies, you can help your child enjoy treats in moderation.

Here are Some Ways to Manage Candy Consumption:

  • Set limits on candy intake: Establish a clear rule about how much candy your child can have each day after Halloween. This helps them enjoy their treats without overindulging in one sitting.
  • Serve candy with meals: Eating candy alongside a balanced meal can help slow down the sugar absorption and avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar.
  • Promote healthier options: While candy is part of the fun, consider offering healthier alternatives like dark chocolate, which contains less sugar than milk chocolate. Sugar-free candies are another good option, particularly for children with dietary restrictions.
  • Encourage balance with other snacks: Instead of filling up solely on candy, offer nutritious snacks like fruits, vegetables, or whole grains. This will help fill your child up with fiber and nutrients while leaving room for a few sweet treats.

Teaching Healthy Habits Early On

Halloween is a great opportunity to start conversations with your child about making healthier food choices:

  • Explain the importance of moderation: Help your child understand that candy is a treat to be enjoyed in small amounts. Teaching them this early helps establish lifelong healthy eating habits.
  • Model healthy behaviors: As a parent, your example can speak louder than words. Limit your own candy intake and enjoy Halloween treats mindfully to set a positive example.
  • Get creative with leftover candy: Consider “buying” some of your child’s candy to reduce the amount they have on hand. You can also donate extra candy to local charities or dental offices participating in candy buy-back programs.

Additional Halloween Safety Tips

  • Keep your home safe for trick-or-treaters: If you’re handing out candy, ensure that your walkway is well-lit, clear of obstacles, and free of tripping hazards like loose decorations. Consider using battery-operated candles instead of open flames to prevent accidental fires.
  • Allergy awareness: Be mindful of children with food allergies. Consider offering non-food treats like stickers, glow sticks, or small toys, which are great alternatives for kids with dietary restrictions. Houses participating in the “Teal Pumpkin Project” display a teal-colored pumpkin, indicating they offer non-food treats.
  • Stay hydrated: Halloween activities can be surprisingly exhausting, especially for children. Encourage them to drink water throughout the evening, as sugary treats can lead to dehydration.

Final Thoughts

Halloween should be a time of fun and excitement, but safety and health should always come first. By following these safety and healthy-eating tips, you can ensure that your child enjoys a memorable Halloween without the risks that can sometimes accompany the holiday.

Hurricane Season: It’s Never Too Early to Be Prepared

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storm damage

It’s June, the days are long and sunny, and thoughts of tropical storms are probably far from your mind. But here in Southeastern Connecticut, hurricane season officially began on June 1st. While major hurricanes are rare in our region, we can still experience the effects of these powerful storms later in the season, typically between August and late September.

Governor Ned Lamont recently emphasized the importance of being proactive in a press release, urging residents to take steps now to ensure their safety and well-being in the event of a hurricane.

“It’s never too early to make sure you and your family are prepared for natural disasters, especially hurricanes,” Governor Lamont said. “Hurricane season is part of our reality in Connecticut, and we’re doing everything we can to make preparations and ensure our residents stay safe, including reminding everyone about the steps they can take to protect themselves, such as making an emergency plan and pulling together emergency kits. A few small steps like these can go a long way and save you time in the event that you need to act quickly.”

Here are some key ways to be prepared for a potential hurricane:

  • Build an Emergency Kit: Stock up on non-perishable food, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days), a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and a whistle (for signaling for help). Don’t forget to include items for specific needs, like baby supplies or pet food.
  • Power Outage Plan: Charge all portable electronics beforehand. Consider investing in a solar phone charger or a hand-crank radio for extended outages. Flashlights are essential, but headlamps can be even more helpful, keeping your hands free.
  • Water Safety: Hurricanes often bring heavy rain and flooding. Fill a bathtub with clean water for sanitation purposes in case the water supply is compromised.
  • Flood Preparedness: If you live in a low-lying area, consider having sandbags on hand to help prevent floodwaters from entering your home.
  • Secure Your Property: Trim branches from trees around your home to minimize wind damage. Board up windows if necessary. Bring in outdoor furniture and decorations that could become projectiles in high winds.

Stay Informed

Download the CT Prepares app for real-time weather alerts and emergency information.

Preparation is key

 Taking steps now can help ensure your family’s safety and peace of mind throughout the hurricane season.

Get the Lead Out: Testing and Screening for Lead Exposure

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chid with toy in his mouth

Lead poisoning is a serious health concern, especially for young children whose bodies and minds are still developing. Exposure to lead can have long-lasting negative consequences, including:

  • Learning and behavior problems: Difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and decreased IQ.
  • Developmental delays: Growth problems and delayed speech and language development.
  • Hearing and vision problems: Lead exposure can even impact a child’s hearing and vision.

Unfortunately, lead is still present in our environment, and in Connecticut, this is of particular concern. Around 70% of the state’s housing stock was built before 1980, and lead paint was commonly used in homes constructed prior to 1978. This means the potential for lead exposure exists in many homes across Connecticut.

The only way to know if your child has been exposed to lead is through a blood test administered by a healthcare provider. Thankfully, Connecticut has taken a crucial step by mandating universal blood lead screening. This means all children in the state are required to be tested at least twice between the ages of 9 months and 35 months.

However, while this initial screening is crucial, only about 60% of children in Connecticut receive the recommended two tests before the age of 3. This is concerning because lead exposure can occur at any time during this critical developmental window.

Here’s what you can do to protect your child:

  • Know your home’s history. If your home was built before 1978, consider getting it tested for lead paint. You can find resources and information on lead testing at https://portal.ct.gov/dph/Environmental-Health/Lead-Poisoning-Prevention-and-Control/Lead-Poisoning-Prevention-and-Control-Program.
  • Schedule regular blood lead tests for your child. Talk to your pediatrician about getting your child tested at the recommended intervals, even if you don’t suspect lead exposure.
  • Be aware of potential sources of lead exposure. While lead paint is the most common source, lead can also be found in soil, dust, and even some imported toys, foods, and products.

By taking these steps, we can work together to protect our children from the dangers of lead poisoning and ensure they have the healthy environment they need to thrive. Let’s make sure every child in Connecticut has the opportunity for a healthy start in life.

RECALL ALERT: Children’s Rhinestone Silver Tiaras Found to Contain Lead

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The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the recall of about 12,400 Yaomaio children’s rhinestone silver tiaras because they contain lead levels above the federal limit. The tiara with red rhinestones was sold in a package with three other tiara styles (blue, purple, and clear) that are not included in the recall. All four tiaras came in the same cardboard packaging marked “Yaomaio.” Amazon sold them between January 2021 and November 2023 for about $19 a package. Consumers should immediately take the recalled tiaras away from their children, stop using them, and contact LordRoadS for a refund. LordRoadS and Amazon are contacting all known purchasers.

recalled tiara

 

Name of Product: Yaomiao Children’s Rhinestone Silver Tiaras
Hazard: The rhinestones embedded in the recalled tiaras contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead content ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
Remedy: Refund
Recall Date: January 25, 2024
Units: About 12,440

When is it safe to swim in a naturally occurring body of water?

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girls swimming in a river

Spending time in natural bodies of water — like oceans, lakes, and rivers — is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.

While this can help you stay active, it is important to know that the water we swim, play, wade, and relax in can also spread germs and make you, and those you care about, sick. Germs found in the water and sand (swim area) often come from human or animal feces (poop). One way germs can be carried into swim areas is by heavy rain. Water from heavy rain picks up anything it comes in contact with (for example, poop from where animals live) and can drain into swim areas.

These germs can also come from humans or animals pooping in or near the water. Water contaminated with these germs can make you sick if you swallow it. It can also cause an infection if you get into the water with an open cut or wound (especially from a surgery or piercing). If your body’s ability to fight germs is already affected by other health problems or medicines, check with your healthcare provider before swimming in oceans, lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water.

Research has shown that the risk of infection is the highest during and the day after rain, and declines to around normal levels after three days.