Black Hawk County Local Emergency Planning Committee

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.

07/20/2026

Hazard 3:

Mercury releases can inadvertently be spread beyond the initial spill site when the products is tracked by the public or first responders including into vehicles and to secondary locations.

Responding to mercury spills requires careful establishment and monitoring of control zones, screening people/property, and unique approaches to decon.

Mercury Spill Requires HazMat Response to 5 Locations

Riverside County, CA - Firefighters, the Riverside County HazMat Team, and the environmental health department responded to a report of a mercury release in the City of Wildomar.

The response then expanded to investigate other locations for potential contamination including Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, and Menifee. Media reports say no threat to the public was found at the additional locations.

Hazard3: Mercury releases can inadvertently be spread beyond the initial spill site when the products is tracked by the public or first responders including into vehicles and to secondary locations.

Responding to mercury spills requires careful establishment and monitoring of control zones, screening people/property, and unique approaches to decon.

Email [email protected] if you're interested in a Risk-Based to Mercury webinar for your team.


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Photo by CalFire. Photo does not constitute use or endorsement

07/20/2026

When severe weather hits, quick decisions matter.
Remember:
• Don’t wait to take shelter
• Never drive through flooded roads
• Move to a basement or interior room during a tornado warning
• Stay tuned to trusted local alerts
A little preparation—and smart choices—can help keep you and your family safe.


Black Hawk County Black Hawk County Conservation

07/16/2026

How do you deal with an underground propane tank leak? I'm glad you asked.......

07/16/2026

Hot and humid conditions will persist into and through this weekend across the state. High temperatures will range from the the upper 80s to the middle 90s with isolated afternoon thunderstorm chances on Friday and late afternoon or early evening isolated storm chances this weekend. Make sure to stay hydrated and limit strenuous outdoor activities during peak heating hours.

07/13/2026

When severe weather hits, quick decisions matter.
Remember:
• Don’t wait to take shelter
• Never drive through flooded roads
• Move to a basement or interior room during a tornado warning
• Stay tuned to trusted local alerts
A little preparation—and smart choices—can help keep you and your family safe.


Black Hawk County Black Hawk County Local Emergency Planning Committee Black Hawk Consolidated Communications Center

07/13/2026

Looks like we are in for another warm week.

Iowa is heating up this week under dry, mostly clear skies. Temperatures are climbing into the 90s by midweek, with heat indices expected to push feels-like values up to 100°F. With these intense conditions arriving, it is crucial to practice heat safety: stay thoroughly hydrated, take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade, and always double-check the backseat for children or pets before locking your vehicle.

07/13/2026

Waterloo residents: It’s time to safely clear out household hazardous waste and old electronics. Join us on Saturday, August 29, for a free collection event in Waterloo.

• Household chemicals, batteries, bulbs and more
• TVs, computers and small electronics
• Easy, drive-through drop-off
• Volunteers unload for you

Registration opens July 17.
Registration is required. Get more information, choose your appointment time and reserve your spot today.
https://wastetrac.org/fall-collection-event/

Volunteers are also needed. Click this link to learn more, (http://wastetrac.org/volunteer/)

Cedar Falls Public Works Facility
2200 Technology Pkwy
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

07/04/2026

🇺🇸🎆 Happy Independence Day from the Black Hawk County LEPC! 🎆🇺🇸

Today we celebrate the birth of our nation and the freedoms we enjoy. Whether you're spending the day with family and friends, attending a community parade, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or watching a fireworks display, we hope you have a safe and memorable Fourth of July.

As you celebrate, remember these simple safety tips:

🎇 Leave fireworks to the professionals whenever possible.
🔥 Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby if using legal consumer fireworks.
🍔 Practice safe grilling by keeping grills away from homes, decks, and anything flammable.
💧 Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the summer heat.
🚗 Never drink and drive—plan for a sober ride home.
🐾 Keep pets indoors if possible, as fireworks can be frightening and stressful for them.

The Black Hawk County LEPC thanks all of our first responders, emergency managers, public health professionals, and community partners who work throughout the holiday to help keep our community safe.

From our family to yours, have a safe, happy, and patriotic Independence Day! ❤️🤍💙