Did You Know...

12-13-04 I have received several positive comments and information regarding the article on "phishing" in the last Independent. There have been many people who have been exposed to this type of fraud here in the Vernonia. The article was rather timely given the arrest a few days here in Vernonia of the suspected ID thief (see activity report). Though the investigation is continuing the suspect possibly has hundreds of victims from the St. Helens and Seaside areas. I will be adding identity theft information to the VPD web site in the near future. At the recent Columbia Emergency Preparedness Association meeting, we discussed being prepared to survive during a disaster or emergency situation. The winter season with its icy roads and treacherous weather could leave you stranded in your vehicle or in your home. The strong winds this past weekend left thousands without power in the Portland area. Would you be prepared if you were stranded in your vehicle or home for an extended period of time? Here is a partial list of simple items you can put in a kit or plastic tub to make you prepared to survive: water, canned food, prescription meds, blankets, radio, flashlight, extra batteries, work gloves, first aid kit, manual can opener, food/water for pets, soap, pen/paper, etc. These same items should be stocked at home as well but in a three-day supply. For more information you can visit the Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter online at www.redcross-pdx.org and order a free "Together We Prepare Oregon" booklet with a much more exhaustive list and information.