Governor Gregoire: Washingtonians Should Prepare, Help Their Neighbors

For Immediate Release: December 20, 2006

Governor continues to warn about the dangers of using inappropriate items for heating, cooking

OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire today issued a statement and an update regarding the Washington storms.

�As forecasts indicate more stormy weather, we should all take common-sense steps to prepare ourselves, our families and our neighbors. This storm is not expected to be as severe, but we know what kind of damage can occur and I strongly urge all citizens to take time now to get prepared. Warming shelters are available for those who need a warm place to stay until power is restored.

�I continue to urge caution and patience. Please check on your neighbors and friends. With the holiday season upon us, we are reminded again why is it important for Washingtonians to show our generosity. Please consider a donation to a food bank or a shelter.

�I have been traveling across the state this week and everywhere I go, I see how well communities are working together to respond to the damage caused by the storm.

�Utility company employees are working around the clock to restore power, giving up their time with their families during the holidays to help Washington recover. I am deeply appreciative of their commitment and dedication, especially from those folks who have come in to help from out of state and have left their families at home.

�My sincere thanks goes to the Washington National Guard, transportation workers, state and local emergency workers and countless volunteers who have spent the last six days helping their neighbors recover and get back to preparing for the holidays. That is the Washington way.�

Governor Gregoire on Friday declared a state of emergency in 17 Western Washington counties and, after reviewing conditions, expanded the state of emergency on Saturday to the entire state. The state emergency operations center is open and Governor Gregoire has given permission for utility crews in King County to use HOV lanes so they are able to move more quickly around the region responding to outages. She today directed the Washington Emergency Management Division to ask King County if there is any additional assistance that the state can provide.

Governor Gregoire continues to urge Washingtonians to not use grills, gas or kerosene heaters and generators indoors and to not use ovens or gas ranges for heating and asks all citizens to get the word out to anyone they know without power. Carbon monoxide poisoning is to blame for three deaths since last week's windstorm and at least four other deaths are attributed to improper indoor use of a generator. Public health officials believe as many as a thousand others have been affected by carbon monoxide poisoning over the past five days.

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