Southwest Utah Health Podcast

From Dreams to Reality: Daylight Saving Time - Should We Lock the Clock? Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Putting Insomnia to Rest Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Sleep & Technology: Pros & Cons Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Ask a Doctor: Interview with a sleep medicine expert Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Bedtime Stories by Local residents talking about their sleep challenges and how they solved them Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Setting the Stage with Good Sleep Hygiene Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Sleep & Kids Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

By the Numbers Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

The Golden Chain: Why Sleep Is Important Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Sleep to Live Longer Spring 2026 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Active Aging: Never Give Up Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Between Life & Breath: Respiratory Viruses in Southwest Utah Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Don't Lose Your Mind Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Hit the Hay: Why Sleep Matters for Children & Teens Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Road Rules: For A Safe Ride Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

I Survived...A Motorcycle Crash Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Cassidy Trail: Red Canyon, Garfield County Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Delano Peak, Tushar Mountains, Beaver County Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Tilted Mesa: Mountain Bike Trail System, Kane County Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Parks, Trails, & Golf: Cedar City, Iron County Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Parks, Trails, & Golf: St. George, Washington County Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Smile! Oral Health Basics Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Bad Belly Ache: Salmonella Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Then & Now: History of Public Health Fall 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript; read the full article on our website.

Dive into home fire safety—one of the most common and devastating emergencies families can face. Our guest, Austin Smith, Health Care Coalition Coordinator and longtime firefighter, shares firsthand experience and practical tips to help you protect your home and loved ones. 🚒 What you’ll learn: Common causes of home fires How to prevent home fires What to do if a fire starts in your kitchen Fire extinguisher basics and tips The importance of smoke detectors How to create an emergency plan Wildfire risks in Southwest Utah https://swuhealth.gov/wildfires/ 🔔 Subscribe for more community health education and emergency preparedness tips. #FireSafety #HomeSafety #WildfirePrevention #UtahPreparedness #EmergencyReady

Low-cost dental 🦷 services are available in Southwest Utah at Utah Tech! Learn more about their program: https://health.utahtech.edu/dental-hygiene/clinic/  

Know Before You Go: Preparing for International Travel Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Way to Quit! Break Free From Smoking & Vaping Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

A Closer Look: Understanding the Leading Causes of Death in Southwest Utah Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Under Pressure: How to Measure and Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Who You Gonna Call? Environmental Health Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Who Let The Dogs In? Service Animal Regulations Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Mommy Stories: Maternal Mental Health & Postpartum Depression Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

One Step at a Time: Starting Your Exercise Journey Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

Scary Diseases: Tracking Pathogens in Southwest Utah Spring 2025 HEALTH Magazine Article A publication of the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation. This episode is a narrated (AI-assisted voice) version of the article. The text serves as the transcript: read the full article on our website.

VOLUNTEER LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. Volunteer Local Opportunities by Tammy Barton, Garfield County EMS Director Narrated by Tina Hicks using AI-assisted voice Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a system that responds to medical and traumatic emergencies with highly-skilled Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). They assess patients, provide treatment, and transport them to medical facilities for further care if needed. There are also Advanced EMTs and Paramedics, with each level building on the knowledge and skills of the previous one. Besides the obvious role of taking care of those in a medical emergency or crisis, EMTs are often involved in educating the public in personal safety, CPR and AED training, first aid, and Stop the Bleed courses. EMTs are sometimes the first to recognize problems in a household or neighborhood, such as substance abuse, domestic violence, or lack of safe housing, enabling them to consult with partner agencies on new or worsening issues. EMS agencies in Utah can be staffed with full-time career EMTs, firefighter EMTs, and/or volunteer EMTs who have other jobs and respond when they are available, depending on the needs of the population served. Although not everyone is cut out for EMS work, being an EMT can be challenging and fulfilling, and they are always needed. All EMTs in the state go through the same training and testing, which is offered through many EMS agencies, colleges, universities, and tech schools. I have been involved in EMS for nearly 33 years as an EMT, Instructor, training officer, and Director. I have seen a lot of growth and change in the field over the years, but one thing remains the same: the caring and dedication of those who work and volunteer as trained EMTs. If you think you’d like to join us, we’d love to have you!

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES, Volunteer Fire Fighter by Robert Hardy, Fire Chief for Pine Valley Fire Department, Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. I came to firefighting rather late in life after working as a pharmacist for many years. I had heard about a volunteer fire department in Pine Valley where our family had purchased a cabin. As I approached retirement, I spoke to the fire chief about getting involved. Feeling for a pulse on my arm, he told me that I was qualified. As I started to attend the training meetings, it felt like entering a foreign world with a whole new language that I had to learn. The other members of the department were very kind to me and helped me quickly learn what I needed to do and how to do it safely. That was eight years ago; now I’m the fire chief! I’ve learned that a well-functioning volunteer fire department needs people to fill different roles; not everyone needs to be able to spray water from a fire hose. And while having a pulse is helpful, the most important qualifier is being good-hearted. The most common reason our members are in the department is that they want to serve the community, and they contribute as firefighters, emergency medical technicians, scene support personnel, communication specialists, logistics personnel, drone pilots, clerical staff, mental health liaison, grant writing specialists, training specialists, equipment maintenance, station support and maintenance, safety specialists, and supply management. If a person is willing to serve, we’ll find a place for them. Many of us are retired professionals from many walks of life, men and women with knowledge and skills that match the needs of the fire department. I would encourage anyone who is interested to reach out to their local fire chief and see what volunteer opportunities are available.

VOLUNTEER LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: CERT HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. VOLUNTEER! LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) by Terry Meissner, Iron County CERT Coordinator Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program empowers community members to take action in the critical period immediately after a disaster. CERT-trained individuals can provide essential support when emergency responders are delayed or resources are stretched thin. As large-scale disasters highlighted the urgent need for trained civilians, CERT expanded into a national program in 1993 that now has more than 600,000 trained participants nationwide. Utah’s CERT teams are sponsored by state and county emergency management agencies. CERT training covers essential skills for disaster response, including: First Aid: Basic life-saving skills and injury management. Incident Command System (ICS): Understanding roles and structure in emergency response. Light Search & Rescue: Locating and assisting those in need in hazardous situations. Emergency Communications: Effective communication techniques during a crisis. Additional skills to build resilience and readiness in the face of emergencies. To find a cert training near you, visit tinyurl.com/FindC ERT

MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) By Suz Roam, Southwest Utah MRC Coordinator Narrated by Suz Roam using AI-assisted voice. The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a nationwide volunteer organization that is usually sponsored by local public health agencies. We are medical and non-medical volunteers coming together to improve the health and safety of our communities. The Southwest Utah MRC covers Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane, and Washington Counties. We support public health by training, educating, and deploying our volunteers to assist in emergencies and health-related events. The need for the MRC became apparent after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when medical and public health professionals, eager to volunteer in support of emergency relief activities, found that there was no organized approach to channel their efforts. As a result, the MRC was established to provide a way to recruit, train, and activate medical and public health professionals, along with other volunteers, to respond to community health needs during disasters and other public health emergencies. Examples of activities that MRC volunteers participate in include: • Emergency preparedness and response trainings and exercises • Emergency shelter operations and medical care • Disaster medical and behavioral health support • Mass dispensing efforts (medication, water, other supplies) • Disease testing and surveillance • Community vaccination clinics • Support services to disaster call centers, family assistance centers, and reception/evacuation centers • Emergency operations center and communications support • Patient movement support • Disaster clean-up and recovery support • First aid and medical support during large public gatherings • Community education and outreach Since you've worked hard in your career to master healthcare skills, volunteering with the Medical Reserve Corps is an effective way to keep those skills current and useful. You’ll be part of an organized team that trains for response capabilities that bolsters local emergency planning while helping to keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe, along with the most vulnerable members of your community. Our MRC membership includes nurses, doctors, pharmacists, therapists, public health officials, and other professionals who are currently working in their fields or retired. Those without medical training can assist with administrative, logistics, and other essential support functions. Following registration and orientation, you’ll have the opportunity to join monthly trainings, annual conferences, and emergency response exercises. To register, go to UtahResponds.org.

VOLUNTEER LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: SEARCH AND RESCUE HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. VOLUNTEER! LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: Search & Rescue Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. Utah search and rescue (SAR) teams embark on hundreds of missions every year. With steadily growing numbers of backcountry hikers, mountain bikers, climbers, and snowmobilers, adventurers occasionally become lost, injured, or trapped. In these situations, volunteer search and rescue teams with special skills can be mobilized to get the job done. Search and rescue scenarios include wilderness areas, mountains, avalanche fields, and bodies of water. SAR teams often rely on volunteers that are trained - or can be trained- in high-angle rope techniques, scuba diving, swift water rescue, K-9 operations, emergency medical services, and other specialties. The goals of SAR missions are to rescue the greatest number of people in the shortest amount of time; get the walking wounded and ambulatory survivors out first; rescue lightly trapped survivors next; and keep the rescuers and survivors safe. Residents interested in joining their local search and rescue team should start by contacting their county sheriff’s office.

VOLUNTEER LOCAL OPPORTUNITIES: AMERICAN RED CROSS HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. Volunteer Local Opportunities: American Red Cross by Itza Prieto, MPH, Community Disaster Program Manager Narrated by Tina Hicks using AI-assisted voice. Known worldwide for its dedication to humanitarian work, the Red Cross offers volunteers an opportunity to be part of an organization that truly changes lives, from local neighborhoods to other regions in need. Volunteers can be found assisting in disaster response organizing blood drives teaching preparedness classes or supporting community initiatives. Many volunteers work behind the scenes, helping manage resources or supporting fundraising efforts, while others engage directly with those in need, providing comfort and essential resources. Red Cross volunteers gain valuable skills, like leadership, crisis management, and teamwork, all while joining a network of compassionate people dedicated to making a difference. Ultimately, it's about being there when it counts. If you’ve ever felt the urge to help and contribute to something larger than yourself, consider joining the Red Cross—it might just be one of the most fulfilling choices you ever make. Find out more and sign up at redcross.org/volunteer.

WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? SOCIAL CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNITY RESILIENCE HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR: Social Connections & Community Resilience By Daniel P. Aldrich, PhD, Guest Columnist Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. We had moved to New Orleans in July 2005, fresh out of graduate school in Boston. We had a new house, new car, and had enrolled our children in nearby schools. Monday, August 29th would be the first day of my new job at Tulane University. That Monday never came, because Sunday morning, at 4 a.m., with a million other people, my wife and I and our two young children got in our van and evacuated just as the rain began to fall ahead of Hurricane Katrina. We drove about 14 hours west to Houston, where we spent several days wandering around in a daze as it began to dawn on us that we couldn’t go back. Our house had been destroyed along with our other car, and all of our stuff was gone. We had some interesting things to think about - what are we going to do next? I’m unemployed now, so how do we get by for the next few months? Having no private insurance, we applied for FEMA aid as soon as we possibly could and anxiously waited for help from the government. The response came six months later, and it was a no. After a big fight over paperwork, we finally received a check to help cover the personal losses. It was during the waiting period, however, that phone calls started coming in, some from people we’d never met before but linked through friends who wanted to help. Children sent us proceeds from a school bake sale. People in Detroit and in New York offered us places to stay. Tuition for the kids to go to school from a community in Tennessee. We were just normal people who soon learned that what was really going to help us, both in the short and long term, were these connections. I had a sort of light bulb moment when I realized I had the wrong set of expectations. I had believed that the government was this fix-all entity, a sort of “white knight” that would swoop in immediately and save us after the disaster. But the reality for us was this: it was friends, friends of friends, family, and people from faith-based organizations and schools who came through for us after that disaster. The devastating 1995 earthquake in Kobe, Japan, not only left damage and casualties from the quake, but many fires started from ruptured underground gas lines. One such fire threatened the adjacent neighborhoods of Mano and Mikura. Narrow, debris-filled streets made it impossible for any firefighters to approach. The residents of Mano had worked together in the past and quickly organized a bucket brigade and put the fire out on their own. In contrast, the people of Mikura didn’t have that type of relationship. They were unable to work together and their neighborhood burned down. It didn’t have to do with how well-built things were or who had insurance, but how well they had cooperated in the past and how well neighbors knew each other. Social capital, which is a fancy way of saying the connectedness we have with other people, is being able to work together as a group. That takes familiarity and trust. Without trust, you’re not going to guard each other’s homes. You can’t form a community patrol if you don’t trust your neighbor to be awake during his shift. Getting to know your neighbors’ names and being able to get along in stable times will pay off in the crisis moments. Social capital also builds mutual aid, or informal insurance, meaning if I need information, equipment, transportation, or a place to stay, we’ve met before, and you trust me. You know I’ll use your resources properly. Shaking someone’s hand for the first time after a disaster is never a good time to say “Hi, can I borrow something from you?” Another barrier to connecting with others is our addiction to virtual life, where we stare at screens as a substitute for building actual human ties. Five hours on social media are five hours not having real conversations and nurturing real relationships, and you can’t get those back. I’m a little worried about how much of our lives take place online. We know fewer of our neighbors’ names and spend less time interacting with them. When technology stops working, that’s the moment when geography becomes destiny. You have to rely on what we call the “sneaker-net”: walking to a neighbor’s house, a store, or a distribution center. If you’ve already made local connections and built that social capital, then it will be easier to get mutual aid and information. You can quickly form a neighborhood patrol or crew to remove heavy debris. It’s dangerous to become over-reliant on virtual connections while ignoring the realities of day-to-day consciousness. Get to know the shut-ins in your community. Organize block parties to get to know each other. Who is on oxygen? Is anyone confined to a wheelchair? Who has pets that will need care? The truth is, the first responders are us. After Katrina, it took almost six days until people were able to get food and water from the Red Cross. It took just as long for official responders to provide relief in the Kobe, Japan quake. Before my own experience, I had thought of myself as a well-informed person. Then, over the next six months, I came to the realization that I had believed in the wrong model for disaster relief. FEMA and other agencies provide a great service, but their mission and scope is limited and often bare bones. True personal and community recovery doesn’t come from the top down, but from within. That vision only comes from people who are willing to talk, work, and cooperate with each other. We are the ones to help and save each other. If disaster should strike your community, may your story be one of people who had cohesion and experience working together beforehand, so that you will have strength when the storms come. Dr. Aldrich is a full professor and Co-Director of the Resilience and Security Program at Northeastern University. He has authored five books, including “Building Resilience: Social Capital in Post-Disaster Recovery”. The original version of this article (titled “Before the Storm”) was published in the Winter 2016 issue of HEALTH Magazine.

GET TRAINED! YOU ARE THE HELP UNTIL HELP ARRIVES HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. GET TRAINED: YOU ARE THE HELP UNTIL HELP ARRIVES Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), trauma is the leading cause of death for Americans under age 45. Since emergency responders aren’t always nearby when people get hurt, you may be able to save a life by taking these simple actions immediately CALL 911 to get help on the way. DID YOU KNOW? You can text 911 if you can’t hear or speak, service is poor, phone lines are jammed, or a voice call would be dangerous. Just include your name, location, and situation. Put your phone on silent if needed. KEEP YOURSELF SAFE by checking the scene for hazards. Don't become another victim. DON’T MOVE THE VICTIM unless they are in danger of further injury or it’s the only way you can provide assistance. STOP THE BLEEDING. Approximately 40% of trauma-related deaths worldwide are due to bleeding or its consequences, making bleeding the most common cause of preventable death in trauma. Is there life-threatening bleeding? After calling 911, compress the source of bleeding with bandages or clean clothing, using firm, steady pressure. Place gauze inside the wound if it is deep. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, a tourniquet can be placed and secured over clothing, 2-3 inches above the wound. Everyone should get trained on the details at stopthebleed.org/training (click “Online Course”). Recovery positioning helps a semiconscious or unconscious person breathe better after you’ve done all you can while waiting for emergency responders to arrive. Gently roll the person onto their side, stabilizing them with the top arm and leg bent. Do not use the recovery position if the person has a major injury (back or neck). PROVIDE COMFORT and keep them warm. Learn more at tinyU R L.com/YouAreTheHelp. You never know when you might become the first responder on the scene of an accident or injury. Here are some essential trainings to consider: First Aid CPR AED Training Basic first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) training can be vital for saving lives, preventing injuries from worsening, and helping people recover. First aid training can also help you feel more confident and prepared to handle unexpected situations. Many of these courses now include the basics of using an AED (automated external defibrillator). AEDs are portable medical devices that can be used to treat a person whose heart has suddenly stopped working. They are often installed in stores, government agencies, and workplaces. Local first aid and CPR courses can be arranged through: ThePulseCPRTrainingCenter.com SouthernUtahCPR.com (for group classes) City of St. George (sgcityutah.gov) Dixie Technical College (dixietech.E D U) MRC (Medical Reserve Corps; see page 30) CERT (Community Emergency Response Team; see page 31) OTHER TRAININGS TO CONSIDER LOCAL GROUP TRAINING The Southwest Utah Public Health Department offers a no-cost emergency preparedness presentation for organizations and groups of families, friends, neighbors, or coworkers. You’ll learn about risk assessment, making emergency plans, getting necessary supplies, communications, and what to do during evacuations. In under 45 minutes, emergency management experts will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to proactively safeguard themselves and their communities. To schedule this presentation, visit swuhealth.gov/prepare and click the “Free In-person Training” link. EARTHQUAKE TRAINING Participating in the annual Great Utah ShakeOut, held every April, is a great way to prepare and practice what to do when an earthquake strikes. The drill emphasizes the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" technique, which is proven to significantly reduce the risk of injury during an earthquake. Go to shakeout.org/utah for more information on how to plan your drill ahead of time and take measures to quake-proof your home. The ShakeOut can be a fun learning experience for families, school classes, and workplaces!

BUILD A FIRST AID KIT: WHAT DO YOU NEED? HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. BUILD A FIRST AID KIT: WHAT DO YOU NEED? by Austin Smith, Healthcare Preparedness Coordinator; Narrated by Austin Smith using AI-assisted voice. Building a medical kit for your home or go-bag can seem like a daunting task, especially if you have no formal medical training. During my 13 years of service as an Army combat medic, I built many medical kits for different applications, so here are some recommendations to consider when creating your own emergency medical kit: When I’m starting from scratch on a medical kit, I like to break it down into three categories: Urgent, Non-Urgent & Medications. It is helpful to select a bag or box that has separate compartments to keep your items organized and easily accessible. URGENT includes tools to treat immediate life-threatening injuries. Arrange these items so that they’re the easiest to find and access in your kit: TOURNIQUET, COMBAT GAUZE PADS AND GAUZE ROLLS (like Kerlix), ACE WRAP OR PRESSURE DRESSING, OCCLUSIVE DRESSING (air and water-tight), EMERGENCY BLANKET, TRAUMA SHEARS, MEDICAL GLOVES, LIFE-SAVING MEDICATIONS LIKE AN EPIPEN (to treat dangerous allergic reactions) OR NALOXONE (for opioid overdose) NON-URGENT includes basic household first aid components to treat smaller cuts, bumps, and bruises: SMALL ADHESIVE BANDAGES (like Band-Aids), GAUZE PADS, SALINE FLUSH, ANTISEPTICS (like hydrogen peroxide), ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT PACKETS, COBAN (self-adherent) WRAP, MEDICAL TAPE, MOLESKIN, TRIANGULAR BANDAGES, INSTANT COLD COMPRESS, SPLINTS, TWEEZERS, EMERGENCY FIRST AID, INSTRUCTIONS/MANUAL MEDICINE Include reserve prescription medications as well as commonly used over-the-counter medications. I save space by placing a few doses of pill-form medicine in a small fly fishing case and using a label maker to identify the drug and the dose. Consult your doctor if you’re unsure about taking any of the medications you’re including. If you are unsure at all about whether you can take a certain medication, consult your doctor before adding it to your kit. Here’s a basic list: EXTRA PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS, PAIN / FEVER RELIEVERS, COLD / FLU MEDICINE, ALLERGY MEDICATION, ANTACIDS, COUGH DROPS, SLEEP AID, LIP BALM, SUNSCREEN, ELECTROLYTE REPLACEMENT POWDER Write down or print cheat-sheets describing recommended dosing and intervals of medications; it can be a lot to remember! It’s better to have something to reference than accidentally causing a new issue by getting a dose wrong. Also, I recommend getting these supplies from a reputable vendor. Cheap knock-offs can easily be found online but are much more likely to fail. Having a kit, along with basic knowledge of first aid principles and techniques, can be invaluable, especially during a disaster. The main cause of preventable pre-hospital death in trauma victims is uncontrolled extremity bleeding, so being able to quickly stop blood loss is vital. Consider taking a STOP THE BLEED® course, along with basic or wilderness first aid, CPR, and AED training (see page 26).

BEYOND THE 72-HOUR KIT: LONG-TERM FOOD AND WATER STORAGE HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. BEYOND THE 72 HOUR KIT: LONG-TERM FOOD AND WATER STORAGE by Andrea Schmutz, Utah State University Extension Narrated by Tina Hicks using AI-assisted voice. While a 72-hour kit will help in the initial days of a crisis, preparing long-term food storage will ensure that you and your loved ones have adequate nutrition for weeks, months, or longer if needed. FOOD STORAGE STORE WHAT YOU USE AND USE WHAT YOU STORE Stock up on foods that your family enjoys and will likely eat. For example, if your family prefers canned milk or shelf-stable boxed milk over powdered milk, use those instead. If you are more likely to use granulated sugar than honey, go with the sugar. If you don’t cook with dried beans, consider storing commercially canned beans. STORE FOODS APPROPRIATELY Successful long-term food storage depends on the packaging and environment in which the food is stored. Use airtight containers such as sealed #10 cans, Mylar bags, or food-grade plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids. Include oxygen absorbers to help prevent spoilage and insect infestations. Store food in a cool, dry, dark place with a temperature between 50°F and 70°F. Focus on shelf-stable, nutrient-dense, and easy-to-prepare foods, including: • Grains: Wheat, rice, oats, and other whole grains provide essential carbohydrates and can be stored for many years if kept in sealed containers with oxygen absorbers. • Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas provide variety and are high in protein and fiber. They also have a relatively long shelf life when stored properly. • Canned goods: Commercially canned vegetables, fruits, and meats can last for several years. Rotate your supply every two to five years to ensure freshness (home-canned food items should be used within one to two years). • Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods: These options are lightweight, compact, and have a long shelf life. Freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, and complete meals can last up to 25 years. • Sugars and sweeteners: White sugar, honey, and molasses store well for long periods and can be used in a variety of recipes. AVOID GOING INTO DEBT TO BUILD YOUR FOOD STORAGE - You can purchase small amounts of extra food over time until you have the desired amount in your long-term storage. Watch for sales on the items you intend to buy. Consider using a tax refund or work bonus/raise to buy large quantities at once. ROTATE YOUR STORAGE WITH FIFO (FIRST IN, FIRST OUT) Frequently rotate your food storage by using and replacing items before they spoil or expire, keeping items with the oldest dates toward the front of the shelf to be used first. WATER SOURCE Humans can survive weeks without food but only a few days without water. Consider the following guidelines to build as much water storage as you can, along with having the means to purify other sources in an emergency: QUANTITY A quart of water or other fluid per day will sustain life, but most people will be more comfortable with at least two quarts per day. Nursing mothers, children, people with illnesses, and those living in hot climates will require additional water. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends storing one gallon of water per person per day for food preparation and drinking purposes. Ideally, another one-half to one gallon per day allows adequate water for personal hygiene and dishwashing. Consider storing a two-week supply for each member of your family. If this is not possible, store as much as you can. CONTAINERS Commercially bottled water provides a quick and easy way to build your storage and can often be found on sale at grocery stores. Consider buying one package each time you shop or at regular intervals until you have a three-day supply. Then, slowly build up to a two-week supply if you have the storage space. If you prefer to prepare your own containers of water, FEMA recommends purchasing food-grade water storage containers from surplus or camping supply stores. You can also re-use storage containers as long as you clean and sanitize them first. WATER SOURCE Fill your water storage containers with tap water from public water supplies; it’s already treated and should be free of harmful bacteria. However, as an additional precaution against any organisms that may have been missed during the container cleaning process, you can add 5-7 drops (about 1/8 teaspoon) of chlorine bleach per gallon of water stored. Make sure to use bleach that is within one year of its manufacture date. OTHER WATER SOURCES Should an emergency arise and you do not have sufficient water storage, you can use potable water from your pipes, your hot water heater, water softener reservoir, and even ice cubes. If you need to resort to other sources of water, understanding the most effective ways to treat water and having the equipment on hand will provide you with more options: • Heat treatment: Boiling water is the most preferred method to disinfect questionable water. According to the Centers for Disease Control, you should bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute at altitudes below 6500 feet, and three minutes above 6500 feet. • Chemical treatment: You can treat clear water with ¼ teaspoon (16 drops) of liquid bleach per gallon. Mix it and let it sit for 30 minutes before using it. You can also include water purification tablets as part of your water storage plan. Just be sure to pay attention to the shelf life of the tablets, as most will last 3-5 years when unopened. • Water filters: Commercial or backpacking water filters provide another option for water purification. They may not filter out viruses, though, so it is recommended to add 5-7 drops (about ⅛ teaspoon) of bleach per gallon of filtered water. Hopefully these basic guidelines will provide you with stepping stones to help you start your long-term food and water storage. Remember that some food and water supply is better than none; the key is to get started!

72 HOUR KITS: SHORT TERM ESSENTIAL SOLUTIONS HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. 72 Hour Kits: Short-Term Essential Solutions By Nathan Cleverly, Emergency Preparedness Planner Narrated by Nathan Cleverly using AI-assisted voice. Emergencies and disasters can strike without warning, leaving individuals and families without immediate access to essential supplies. Whether you are facing a natural disaster, such as an earthquake or flood, or a personal emergency like a power outage or house fire, being prepared beforehand brings peace of mind and greatly increases your chances of staying safe and comfortable during unexpected events. A 72-hour kit is designed to be a short-term solution, offering the essentials needed to survive for up to three days. Here are the recommended items to start your emergency kit: Water - One gallon per person, per day, necessary for both drinking and sanitation. Store it in a cool place and resupply every six months. Food - Nonperishable food, ideally enough for 3-5 days per person, such as canned food, fruit, vegetables, soups, crackers, granola, and trail mix. Can Opener - A can opener is essential for accessing canned food items in your kit. Clothes - A change of clothes for each person, considering different weather possibilities, including sturdy shoes and layers for varying temperatures. Flashlight - Keep extra batteries on hand or use a hand-crank flashlight to avoid reliance on battery life. Medications - Include a supply of prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies for common ailments to maintain health during an emergency. Radio - A battery-powered or hand-crank radio helps you stay informed during an emergency when other communication methods may be down. Hygiene Items - Some useful items could include soap, toilet paper, toothbrush, moist towelettes, and hand sanitizer to maintain hygiene and prevent illness. First Aid Kit - Specifically for emergencies, different from your regular kit, including bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other necessary medical supplies. ACCESSIBILITY AND STORAGE Store your emergency 72-hour kit in an accessible place for quick and easy access during an emergency. Ideal locations include your car, garage, or a closet near the front door, ensuring you can grab it at a moment's notice. It can also be helpful to have a kit at work in case an emergency occurs while you are there. When choosing a storage location, consider the impact of weather on the kit's contents. For example, if kept in the car, extreme heat or cold may affect items such as liquids and medications. REGULAR MAINTENANCE Regularly check expiration dates on all perishable items, such as food, water, and medications, to ensure they are still safe and effective. Setting a routine, like checking your kit when daylight saving time changes, can help keep your supplies up-to-date and ready for use. SHELTER-IN-PLACE versus EVACUATION Shelter-in-place means staying indoors during an emergency, such as a severe storm, chemical spill, or other situation where it is safer to remain inside rather than venture out. During these times, your 72-hour kit ensures that you don’t need to leave your home to meet your needs. Evacuation, on the other hand, involves leaving your home due to an imminent threat, like a wildfire, flood, or other emergency where staying at home is dangerous. In this scenario, your 72-hour kit will contain all the essentials you need to survive on the go, making the transition smoother and ensuring you have vital supplies readily available. PLANNING AND ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS Picture this: you have just 10 minutes to grab what you need and evacuate your home. What would you take? This quick exercise helps you figure out what’s really important and what you would want all in one place so you don’t have to search for it under pressure. Your 72-hour kit should be at the top of the list, but don’t forget about important documents like IDs, insurance papers, and financial records - things you may need to get back on your feet after an emergency. Also, don’t overlook your pets. Make sure you have a plan for their emergency food, water, and medications. Include these items in your kit so they are taken care of too. Don’t wait for an emergency before you take action. Thinking ahead and planning for different possibilities will make any emergency easier to handle. Having essential supplies ready can make a significant difference in your ability to stay safe and comfortable during challenging times.

PET PREPAREDNESS: KEEPING YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS SAFE HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. Pet Preparedness: Keeping Your Furry Family Member Safe By Best Friends Animal Society, Guest Contributor Narrated by Tina Hicks using AI-assisted voice. Emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s crucial for people with pets to be as prepared as possible for a potential evacuation or shelter-in-place situation that could last for hours, days, weeks, or even longer. To make a truly effective pet emergency plan, be sure to include every member of your household by gathering their input and determining everyone’s roles. It is also critical to designate an off-site meeting location for everyone in case some members of the family are not home during an emergency evacuation. Once your plan is complete, make copies for everyone to have on hand and update the plan as necessary. HELPFUL TRAINING FOR BOTH PETS AND HUMANS If your pets are not crate-trained or are uncomfortable being in a carrier, work on helping them feel relaxed and safe while crated. Pets can feel stress and panic as danger nears; some try to escape or run and hide, which means they can become lost before they can be safely evacuated. It’s important to get them as comfortable as possible in their crates so that both you and your pets can safely and quickly evacuate during an emergency. Pets who have been crate-trained in the past but haven’t used a crate in a while might only need a refresher. We also recommend putting a collar on your dog and walking them on a leash at least once a day, since both are critical in emergency situations. Consider taking a pet first-aid and/or a pet CPR course (the Red Cross offers online classes) to ensure that you can attend to your pet’s potential medical needs as much as possible. Veterinary care might not be readily available during a crisis. IDENTIFYING POTENTIAL CAREGIVERS AND PET-FRIENDLY LODGING You might be displaced by a disaster and be unable to retrieve your pets. You can prepare for that by asking family, friends, or neighbors whether they would be willing to temporarily watch or pick up your pets in an emergency. It’s ideal to have a few designated pet caregivers. Once you’ve determined who those designated caregivers are, make a list of your pets’ daily routines, any special needs, and the location of emergency supplies. Print out copies and send a digital copy to each designated caregiver. Another option for displaced pets is a boarding facility. You’ll want to do some research in advance. If possible, visit the facility and interact with the employees to ensure that you are comfortable with the services provided. Information on your approved boarding facilities should also be given to your designated caregivers in case it turns out they are unable to house your pets. Local sheltering facilities are usually created in real time leading up to or during an emergency. But it’s important to do your research now regarding potential sheltering options in your community, and keep a list of those options on your phone. Another possibility is that you might end up evacuating with your pets in an emergency. Pet-friendly lodging is becoming more and more common, but you should still research in advance online and find several pet-friendly hotels within a five to fifty-mile radius. TAKING PHOTOS OF YOUR PETS Take a good photo of your pet, and keep a photo of both you and your pet on your phone in case you are separated. Also, consider printing out a few photos to have on hand in case your phone isn’t available or loses power or you don’t have access to social media platforms. This will help to ensure identification of your pet and a successful reunion.

BE A PREPAREDNESS BUDDY HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. Be a Preparedness Buddy by Ali Elmen, MPH, Guest Author Narrated by Lorenza Phillips using AI-assisted voice. Did you know that more than half of Americans have a temporary or permanent condition that could limit their ability to respond during a disaster? Having a relative, friend, or neighbor - a preparedness buddy in place can make a big difference for individuals who may require additional assistance before, during, and after an emergency. Consider how a disaster might be challenging for the following groups: Children, Individuals with disabilities, People with limited English proficiency, Residents of institutional settings, Individuals with chronic health conditions, People with fixed or low income, Individuals with pharmacological dependencies, those relying on medical devices or mobility aids, Individuals with limited access to transportation, Households with pets, farm animals, or service animals, People experiencing homelessness Do you or someone you know fall into one of these categories? If so, here are ways to prepare for an emergency: COMMUNICATION is crucial, especially for people who have difficulty hearing, seeing, speaking, or understanding. During emergencies, they might not hear announcements, see signs, or be able to express their needs. Planning ahead with text alerts, visual aids, or language translation services ensures they can receive and respond to critical information. They will also want to sign up for emergency alerts for their county. MAINTAINING HEALTH is vital for those who require assistance to manage their health or daily activities. They should have a sufficient supply of medications, backup medical equipment, and a plan for accessing necessary treatments during an emergency. INDEPENDENCE for those who rely on assistive devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, or communication aids depends on those items being accessible and functional. Keep them in a location that is easy to access quickly and have backups if possible. SUPPORT SYSTEMS for people with mental health conditions—including dementia, severe mental illness, or addiction—should be in place to provide stability and protection, since those conditions can be exacerbated during stressful situations like emergencies. TRANSPORTATION needs should be considered in advance for individuals who cannot drive or require wheelchair-accessible vehicles, especially in case of evacuations. Preparation is a shared responsibility—how can you use this framework to enhance your readiness or assist someone you know?

LIFELINE: AMATEUR RADIO DURING DISASTERS HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. LIFELINE: AMATEUR RADIO DURING DISASTERS by Brett Pruitt, Utah Section Emergency Coordinator Narrated by David Heaton using AI-assisted voice. While food, water, clothing, and medicine are important items for emergency preparedness, I would encourage you to look at your disaster supplies for another critical item that might be missing: a radio. Although cell phones and the internet have changed how we communicate on a global scale, they require a large amount of physical infrastructure to work, which can become damaged and disabled in disasters. Radios, ham (amateur) radios in particular, only require a battery and an antenna. Why amateur radio? The two-way radios you can buy at big box stores for $20 are severely limited in their capability. Ham radios have a lot more to offer, although you need to be licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to use one. There are three levels of amateur radio licensing: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. Additional privileges are granted with each level of license. Obtaining a license requires registering with the FCC and taking a written test. There are study guides available to help you prepare for the test, which can be taken in person or online. Once you pass the test, you’ll be issued your own call sign and allowed to use the amateur radio frequencies assigned to your license. You’ll be able to communicate reliably at great distances using a standard handheld amateur radio, which is not too cost-prohibitive. You’ll also have a baseline knowledge of devices, antennas, and how radio communications work. Most importantly, you’ll be part of a robust network of other amateur radio operators who can communicate and share information with each other during a disaster when other methods are non-functional. These advantages have allowed ham radio operators to become a reliable part of emergency response efforts.

FAMILY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION: CREATING A PLAN HEALTH Magazine, Winter 2025 Published by the Southwest Utah Public Health Foundation This podcast episode is an AI-generated narration of the HEALTH Magazine article. The full article text is provided below as the official transcript of this episode. FAMILY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION: CREATING A PLAN by Austin Smith, Healthcare Preparedness Coordinator; Narrated by Austin Smith using AI-assisted voice.   We take for granted the ability to use devices to instantly see what’s going on in the world around us or have constant contact with our loved ones. In fact, it seems like most people over the age of twelve have a smartphone with them at all times. It’s truly amazing how easy it is for us to communicate. But what would you do if that ability suddenly stopped working? The communication services we use are not immune to infrastructure damage or cyberattacks. You and your family can prepare for these unexpected scenarios by creating a PACE plan, a model used by the military for backup contingencies. Here are ideas to help you stay in touch during emergencies: P (PRIMARY) This is the best-case scenario, or what you hope will still work, like cell phones and landlines. Here are ways to optimize your primary options: • Keep a portable power bank and phone charging cord on hand/in your go-kit. • Use a waterproof phone case or keep some Ziploc bags in your kit to protect devices. • Print a hard copy of essential contacts to keep in your kit in case you need to use another phone. • Keep a list of known landline locations that are available to you (Grandma’s house?). (A) ALTERNATE Even if cell coverage and landlines are down, you may still be able to access the internet (Wi-Fi) to use web-based calling and messaging apps. • Create family group chats on web-based apps that only require a Wi-Fi connection to use. • Know what nearby public buildings have free Wi-Fi (library, shopping mall, fast food) and what the hours are. Others will likely have the same idea, so be considerate with your bandwidth use. Try messaging instead of calls. C (CONTINGENCY) For communications, this could be using two-way radios. There are three radio services that do not require a license to operate on: Family Radio Service (FRS), Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS), and Citizens Band (CB). These are good options for short-distance communications, and radios can be purchased at relatively low cost. • Pre-determine at least two “family emergency” channels. • Practice with the radios so that you understand how to use them and what their limitations are. • Consider how you will recharge the batteries (portable power banks, extra batteries, etc). • Use the 3-3-3 method to save power (turning radios on every 3 hours to communicate, starting at noon). • There are other options for longer range radios like Amateur Radio (HAM) that require further training and licensing. (see page 16). E(EMERGENCY) These are plans of last resort; still achievable but obviously not your first choice: • Establish a safe meeting place both in and outside of your neighborhood. Make sure everyone knows where it is and practice going there. • Have a place (“drop-box”) where everyone knows to leave notes if you are away from home when they come to check on you. • If using “runners”, clearly define who will be checking on whom and establish the locations where they will meet to exchange information. A PACE plan can be created quickly and even be a fun family activity to practice when things are calm. This will help alleviate the stress and fear that often comes with a real disaster.