Black Hawk County Local Emergency Planning Committee

10/07/2026

Don't forget about our partners at Waterloo Fire Rescue. Stop in for some food and fun tonight.

Our fire prevention open house will be on Wednesday October 7th this year! Check out our flyer below and make sure to follow our event page for updates and reminders: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DV7333Pud/

10/07/2026

🔥 IT’S FIRE PREVENTION WEEK! 🔥

October 4–10 is Fire Prevention Week, and this year’s message is especially important because rechargeable batteries are everywhere—in our phones, laptops, power tools, toys, e-bikes, scooters, and countless other devices.

The 2026 theme is:

⚡ “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower™” ⚡

Lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when used properly, but damaged batteries, incorrect chargers, overheating, or improper charging can create a serious fire hazard.

A few simple habits can help protect your home and family:

🔋 Use the charger designed or approved for your device.

🛏️ Never charge phones, tablets, laptops, or other devices underneath pillows, blankets, or on soft surfaces where heat can build up.

🔌 Unplug devices when they are fully charged.

⚠️ Stop using a battery if you notice swelling, unusual heat, leaking, an odd odor, popping noises, or a change in shape or color.

🚪 Keep charging devices away from exits and escape routes.

🚲 When possible, charge larger items such as e-bikes, scooters, and battery-powered tools outside and away from combustible materials.

🔥 And remember the basics: Make sure your home has working smoke alarms, know two ways out, and have a family fire escape plan.

The Black Hawk County LEPC joins our local fire departments, emergency responders, businesses, and community partners in recognizing Fire Prevention Week 2026.

Fire prevention isn’t just something to think about once a year. A few simple precautions today can prevent an emergency tomorrow.

Charge safely. Stay alert. Prevent fires.

10/06/2026

🚨 YOU SEE A TANKER TRUCK OVERTURNED. THERE’S A CLOUD COMING FROM IT. WHAT DO YOU DO?

Hazardous materials travel through Black Hawk County every day—by truck, rail, and through local businesses and facilities. Most trips happen without incident, but knowing what to do before an emergency can make a big difference.

If you ever encounter a possible chemical spill or hazardous-material release:

⚠️ DO NOT approach the scene. You may not be able to see or smell a dangerous chemical.

📞 Call 911 and provide the location and anything you can safely observe from a distance.

💨 Move away from the area—preferably uphill and upwind. Wind can carry hazardous v***rs well beyond the immediate spill.

🚗 Do not drive through a spill, v***r cloud, smoke, or unknown substance.

📱 Follow instructions from local officials. Depending on the chemical involved, you may be told to evacuate or shelter in place.

🏠 If instructed to shelter in place, go indoors, close doors and windows, turn off ventilation systems if directed, and monitor official information.

And one important reminder: Never assume that “no smell” means “no danger.” Some hazardous chemicals have little or no odor, while others can overwhelm your sense of smell.

The Black Hawk County Local Emergency Planning Committee brings emergency responders, government agencies, healthcare, businesses, industry, and community partners together to plan for hazardous-material emergencies before they happen.

Preparedness starts with knowing what to do.

09/15/2026

The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board released its final report on the fatal August 11, 2025, explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works facility in Clairton, Pennsylvania. […]

09/15/2026

09/11/2026

Today on Patriots Day, WFR would like to remember those we tragically lost on 9/11 twenty-five years ago as a result of terrorist attacks on our country. On that day the FDNY would launch the largest fireground rescue operation effort in fire service history without hesitation. Many other multitude acts of valor by both emergency personnel and civilians took place on that day where man and woman sought to help each other in need.

09/10/2026

08/06/2026

07/30/2026

07/21/2026

Is wildfire smoke considered hazardous materials?

Wildfire smoke is hazardous to your health, but it is not usually classified as a traditional hazardous materials incident.

Smoke can contain fine particles, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and other pollutants that may cause breathing problems, eye irritation, headaches, and other health effects. People with heart or lung conditions, older adults, children, and pregnant individuals may be especially vulnerable.

Wildfire smoke can become a hazardous materials concern when a fire involves:

• Industrial facilities
• Chemical storage areas
• Agricultural chemicals
• Vehicles
• Treated lumber
• Buildings containing asbestos, lead, or other hazardous substances

An Air Quality Index reading in the “Hazardous” category means the air poses a serious health risk. It does not necessarily mean a formal hazardous materials release has occurred.

During smoke events, monitor local air-quality reports, limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and follow guidance from local public health and emergency management officials.

Welcome relief from the heat today! cooler with breezy north wind. Hazy skies are expected as wildfire smoke moves in overhead.