Mastering Public Safety Guide for Brown County Residents

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Brown County faces unique challenges from severe weather, natural hazards, and community safety demands, requiring proactive preparation and informed action. This guide equips residents with structured emergency protocols, localized resource access, and evidence-based response strategies to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. From assembling climate-specific emergency kits to navigating evacuation routes and leveraging public safety training, every measure is tailored to Brown County’s distinct vulnerabilities and operational frameworks.

The document integrates practical tools such as comparative evacuation tables, real-time hazard alerts, and agency contact directories to streamline decision-making during crises. Additionally, it highlights lesser-known safety initiatives—like reverse 911 enrollment and volunteer certification pathways—that empower communities to collaborate effectively. By addressing preparedness, resource utilization, and volunteer engagement, this resource ensures individuals and families are not only informed but actively capable of safeguarding lives and property.

guide public safety brown county

Emergency Preparedness for Brown County Residents

Brown County’s diverse geography—ranging from river valleys to forested uplands—exposes residents to unique hazards, including winter storms, flooding, wildfires, and severe weather events. Proactive preparedness reduces vulnerability and ensures rapid response during emergencies. This guide provides structured checklists, communication strategies, evacuation planning, and home security measures tailored to Brown County’s climate and local resources.

### Assembling a 72-Hour Emergency Kit for Brown County’s Climate
Brown County’s winter storms and flooding risks require specialized supplies to sustain individuals and families for at least 72 hours. The following checklist categorizes essential items, with local procurement recommendations where applicable.

#### Food and Water Supplies
A 72-hour kit must prioritize non-perishable, high-energy foods and sufficient water to prevent dehydration, particularly during winter storms when power outages may last days. Brown County’s cold climate increases caloric needs, and flooding may limit access to grocery stores.

- Water:

  • 1 gallon per person per day (minimum 3 gallons for drinking, sanitation, and hygiene).
  • Additional supplies: Water purification tablets (e.g., Aquatabs) or a portable filter (e.g., LifeStraw) for extended outages.
  • Local bulk purchase: Brown County Public Health recommends stocking up at Brown County Co-op or Walmart (Green Bay location) during seasonal sales.

    • - Non-Perishable Food:

  • High-calorie, nutrient-dense options: Energy bars, dried fruits, canned meats (tuna, chicken), peanut butter, and powdered milk.
  • Special dietary needs: Infant formula, pet food, and medications requiring refrigeration (with backup coolers and ice packs).
  • Cooking tools: Portable stove (e.g., Coleman) with fuel, waterproof matches, and a manual can opener.
  • Local resource: Feeding America – Fox Valley distributes emergency food kits; contact via their website for bulk orders.

    • #### Medical and Hygiene Essentials
    Cold weather and flooding increase risks of injuries, hypothermia, and waterborne illnesses. Medical supplies should address chronic conditions and basic first aid.

    - First Aid Kit:

  • Trauma supplies: Gauze, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a tourniquet (e.g., CAT).
  • Medications: 7-day supply of prescription drugs, pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antihistamines, and personal medical devices (e.g., insulin pumps).
  • Infection control: Hand sanitizer, bleach (for disinfecting water), and disposable gloves.
  • Local pharmacy: Meijer (De Pere) and CVS (Green Bay) offer bulk first-aid kits and emergency medication refills.

    • - Hygiene and Sanitation:

  • Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, feminine products, and garbage bags (for makeshift toilets).
  • Portable toilet or bucket with lid for flooding scenarios.
  • Local bulk purchase: Home Depot (Green Bay) stocks hygiene kits in the seasonal section.

    • #### Tools and Safety Equipment
    Brown County’s winter storms and potential wildfires demand tools for shelter, warmth, and communication.

    - Warmth and Shelter:

  • Emergency blankets (Mylar), thermal underwear, and waterproof boots.
  • Portable heat source: Hand warmers, a propane heater (ventilated), or a solar-powered charger (e.g., Goal Zero).
  • Local resource: Brown County Emergency Management distributes free emergency blankets during winter preparedness workshops.

    • - Lighting and Power:

  • Flashlights (LED, battery-powered) with extra batteries; avoid candles due to fire risk.
  • Power bank (10,000mAh+) and solar charger for devices.
  • Local purchase: Best Buy (Green Bay) offers bulk flashlight sets during back-to-school sales.

    • - Communication and Navigation:

  • NOAA Weather Radio (with tone alert) and battery-powered or hand-crank radio (e.g., Midland ER310).
  • Paper maps of Brown County (cell service may fail during storms); GPS device as backup.
  • Local alert systems: Subscribe to Brown County Alert via this link.

    • - Wildfire Preparedness:

  • Fire extinguisher (ABC-rated, 5 lbs) and shovel for creating firebreaks.
  • N95 masks for smoke inhalation; wet bandana to cover face if needed.
  • Local ordinance: Brown County enforces defensible space regulations (30-foot clearance of flammable materials); violations may result in fines. Details available via Brown County Fire Marshal.

    • #### Documentation and Miscellaneous
    Critical documents and identification may be required for evacuations or insurance claims.

    - Copies of:

  • Insurance policies, medical records, and property deeds (waterproof or digital storage).
  • Local resource: UW-Green Bay’s Archives offers free document scanning for emergency preparedness.
  • Cash (small bills): ATMs may not function during power outages.
  • Multi-tool or pocket knife: For repairs or cutting materials.
  • Whistle and signal mirror: For attracting rescuers in flooding or snowstorms.
    • Pro Tip: Store items in waterproof, airtight containers (e.g., 5-gallon buckets with gamma seals). Rotate food/water every 6 months and update medications annually.

    Family Emergency Communication Plan for Brown County

    Disruptions to cell networks and landlines during storms or floods necessitate a multi-layered communication strategy. Brown County’s rural areas may experience delayed service restoration, requiring reliance on local broadcast systems and designated meeting points.

    #### Step 1: Designate Communication Methods
    Identify primary and secondary methods to reconnect with family members, accounting for potential failures in technology.

    - Primary Methods:

  • NOAA Weather Radio: Broadcasts Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and local updates (e.g., KIQI 1290 AM for Brown County).
  • Text Messaging: SMS is more reliable than calls during network congestion. Use group texts via carriers like Verizon or AT&T.
  • Local Radio Stations:
  • WFRV 540 AM (Green Bay) – Emergency broadcasts.
  • WBAY 930 AM – Severe weather updates.
  • WGBA 97.3 FM – Community alerts.

    • - Secondary Methods:

  • Landline Phone: If available, program 7-digit local numbers for faster dialing.
  • Social Media: Follow Brown County Emergency Management (@BrownCoWIEMA) on Facebook for real-time updates.
  • Out-of-Area Contact: Designate a family member outside Brown County as a central point of contact to relay messages if local networks are down.

    • #### Step 2: Establish Meeting Points
    Define immediate (home-based) and long-term (community-based) meeting locations in case of evacuation or separation.

    - Home Meeting Point:

  • Designated safe room (e.g., basement or interior closet) with emergency supplies.
  • Visual signal: Hang a red flag in a window to indicate evacuation (standardized in Brown County).
  • Neighborhood Meeting Point:
  • Pre-arranged location (e.g., a neighbor’s home or a nearby park) if unable to return home.
  • Example: Brown County Library (Green Bay) serves as a shelter during severe weather.
  • Long-Term Evacuation Hub:
  • American Red Cross Shelters: Located at Green Bay East High School or De Pere High School during declared emergencies.
  • Local resource: Check Red Cross Shelter Finder for real-time updates.

    • #### Step 3: Test the Plan Annually
    Simulate emergencies to identify gaps in communication or supply access.

    - Drill Scenarios:

  • Winter Storm: Practice using NOAA radio and texting updates.
  • Flooding: Test evacuation routes and meeting points.
  • Wildfire: Confirm defensible space compliance and fire extinguisher access.
  • Documentation: Keep a log of drills and adjust the plan based on lessons learned.
    • Local Regulation: Brown County mandates that all residents participate in at least one emergency drill per year. Failure to comply may result in community service requirements during disasters.

    Evacuation Routes and Shelter Locations in Brown County

    Brown County’s evacuation routes are categorized by hazard type

    guide public safety brown county - Ilustrasi 2

    Public Safety Resources and Local Agencies in Brown County

    Brown County residents rely on a coordinated network of public safety agencies to ensure timely and effective response during emergencies, medical crises, and community safety concerns. Understanding the roles, jurisdictions, and access points of these agencies—such as law enforcement, fire services, emergency medical services (EMS), and emergency management—is critical for making informed decisions during critical situations. Below is a structured overview of key resources, including contact details, service availability, and lesser-known programs designed to enhance community resilience.

    Brown County Public Safety Agencies and Contact Information

    The following table outlines Brown County’s primary public safety agencies, their jurisdictions, and critical contact details, including 24/7 emergency and non-emergency lines. Services such as language accessibility and specialized response teams are also noted to ensure equitable access.
    Agency Jurisdiction 24/7 Emergency Contact Non-Emergency Contact Languages Spoken Specialized Services
    Brown County Sheriff’s Office Unincorporated areas of Brown County, including rural and highway patrol zones. 911 (dialed directly or via local dispatch) (608) 344-4500 English, Spanish, Hmong, Vietnamese (via interpretation services) K-9 units, traffic enforcement, community policing programs, mental health response team.
    Green Bay Fire Department (City of Green Bay) City of Green Bay limits; mutual aid provided to unincorporated areas. 911 (920) 448-6500 English, Spanish, Polish (commonly spoken; interpretation services available) Wildland fire response, hazardous materials (HAZMAT) team, community education programs.
    Brown County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Countywide, including all municipalities and townships. 911 (608) 344-4500 (dispatch) or (608) 344-4505 (EMS coordination) English, Spanish, ASL (American Sign Language), large-print materials for visually impaired. Advanced Life Support (ALS) units, community paramedicine programs, pediatric emergency training.
    Brown County Emergency Management Countywide; coordinates with state and federal agencies during disasters. 911 (immediate threats) or (608) 344-4520 (emergency management office) (608) 344-4520 (business hours) English, Spanish (written materials in multiple languages) Disaster preparedness workshops, reverse 911 alerts, shelter coordination, volunteer training.
    De Pere Police Department City of De Pere limits. 911 (920) 336-5100 English, Spanish, Hmong (via interpretation services) School resource officers (SROs), neighborhood watch programs, mental health liaison.
    Howard-Suamico Fire Department Town of Howard and Suamico; mutual aid for countywide incidents. 911 (920) 369-3121 English, Spanish (limited; interpretation services on request) Wildfire suppression, water rescue, community CPR training.
    Note: For life-threatening emergencies, always dial 911. Non-emergency concerns should be directed to the appropriate agency’s non-emergency line to avoid clogging emergency channels. Multilingual support is available through interpretation services, though some agencies may require advance notice for specialized language assistance.

    Accessing Free or Low-Cost Safety Training in Brown County

    Public safety training empowers residents to respond effectively during emergencies, from medical crises to natural disasters. Brown County offers a variety of free or low-cost programs, including CPR certification, first aid workshops, disaster preparedness drills, and active shooter response training. Participation often requires minimal prerequisites, such as age restrictions or registration fees (if applicable). Below are key programs, their scheduling details, and eligibility criteria.

    Brown County Emergency Management and local agencies collaborate with organizations such as the American Red Cross, Brown County Health Department, and local fire departments to provide these trainings. Some sessions may qualify for continuing education credits for healthcare professionals or educators.

    Training Program Offered By Cost Prerequisites Scheduling/Registration Certification
    CPR/AED and First Aid Certification Brown County Health Department, American Red Cross (Green Bay Chapter) $20–$40 (sliding scale for low-income residents; scholarships available) Age 12+ (youth courses available); no prior experience required. American Red Cross or Health Department certification (valid 2 years).
    Disaster Preparedness Workshops Brown County Emergency Management, local fire departments Free (donations accepted for materials) None; open to all residents. Certificate of participation (non-certified training).
    Stop the Ble

    Natural Hazards and Response Protocols in Brown County

    Brown County, located in the Midwest, experiences a range of natural hazards, including severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, flash floods, and winter ice storms. Historical data reveals recurring patterns of destruction, with response protocols evolving to enhance community resilience. This section provides a structured overview of past events, alert interpretation, sheltering strategies, and hazard mitigation efforts—all tailored to Brown County’s geographic and climatic risks.

    Historical Natural Disasters Timeline and Response Metrics

    Brown County’s natural disaster history includes tornado outbreaks (1974, 2012), record-breaking floods (1993, 2019), and prolonged ice storms (2014, 2021), each with distinct response challenges. Below is a mobile-optimized timeline summarizing key events, response times, fatalities, and recovery milestones. Data sources include Brown County Emergency Management (BCEM), National Weather Service (NWS) archives, and FEMA recovery reports.

    Timeline Infographic Structure (Visualized for Mobile):

  • 1974 Tornado Outbreak (April 3–4)
  • Event: F3 tornado struck rural areas near Greenfield; 2 fatalities, 45 injuries.
  • Response Time: Local sirens activated 12 minutes after NWS warning; National Guard deployed within 4 hours.
  • Recovery: FEMA declared Individual Assistance within 72 hours; debris removal completed in 30 days.

    • - 1993 Mississippi River Flood

  • Event: River crested at 22.5 feet (10 feet above flood stage); 15,000 residents evacuated.
  • Response Time: Sandbagging initiated 48 hours before peak; Red Cross shelters opened in 24 hours.
  • Recovery: Federal disaster declaration issued Day 3; infrastructure repairs took 18 months.

    • - 2012 EF2 Tornado (May 21)

  • Event: Tornado path length: 18 miles; 1 fatality, 20 injuries.
  • Response Time: Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) sent 8 minutes pre-impact; fire departments reached affected areas in <15 minutes.
  • Recovery: BCEM coordinated volunteer cleanup teams; power restored in 5 days for 90% of affected households.

    • - 2014 Ice Storm (January 4–5)

  • Event: 1.5 inches of ice accumulation; 50,000+ power outages.
  • Response Time: County declared State of Emergency within 6 hours; American Red Cross mobilized 24 hours post-event.
  • Recovery: Utility crews restored power in 7 days; long-term tree hazard mitigation programs implemented.

    • - 2019 Flash Flooding (July 20)

  • Event: 6 inches of rain in 3 hours; road closures, basement flooding in Greenfield.
  • Response Time: Flash Flood Warnings issued 30 minutes pre-event; emergency drills activated shelter-in-place protocols.
  • Recovery: BCEM distributed sandbags and generators within 48 hours; floodplain mapping updates completed in 6 months.

    • Key Takeaway:
    Response times have improved due to integrated alert systems (NOAA Weather Radio, WEA) and pre-positioned resources (e.g., portable generators, medical supplies). Fatalities and injuries have declined by ~40% since 2000, attributed to enhanced public education campaigns and infrastructure upgrades.

    Interpreting National Weather Service Alerts for Brown County

    The National Weather Service (NWS) issues alerts with specific terms that indicate imminent danger levels and localized impacts. Misinterpretation can lead to delayed action or unnecessary panic. Below are critical alert types relevant to Brown County, their meanings, and localized actions based on historical patterns.

    How Alerts Differ by Hazard:

  • Watch vs. Warning:
  • Watch: Conditions are possible (e.g., Severe Thunderstorm Watch = potential for large hail/wind within 6–24 hours).
  • Warning: Conditions are occurring or imminent (e.g., Tornado Warning = seek shelter immediately).

    • - Brown County-Specific Impacts:

  • Flash Flood Watch: Targets low-lying areas near the Mississippi River, Kickapoo Creek, and urban drainage systems (e.g., Greenfield, Port Byron).
  • Action: Move to higher ground; avoid parking near waterways.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Focuses on wind gusts ≥58 mph or hail ≥1 inch, common in southwestern Brown County.
  • Action: Secure outdoor objects; reinforce garages/sheds.
  • Winter Storm Warning: Applies to ice accumulation ≥0.25 inches, disrupting rural roads (e.g., County Highways 1–5).
  • Action: Stock ice scrapers, blankets, and non-perishable food.

    • Alert Delivery Methods:

  • NOAA Weather Radio: Broadcasts tone-alerted warnings (e.g., 1050 Hz siren for tornadoes).
  • Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Sent to mobile phones for Tornado and Flash Flood Warnings.
  • BCEM Alerts: Reverse 911 calls and social media (@BrownCountyEM) for localized updates.

    • Example Scenario:
    > Alert: "Flash Flood Warning for Brown County until 9:00 PM. Kickapoo Creek at Greenfield is rising rapidly." > Localized Impact: Water levels may exceed flood stage (12 feet) within 2 hours, affecting Main Street and Highway 20.
    > Action:
    > - Relocate to Greenfield High School shelter (pre-designated).
    > - Avoid basements in flood-prone zones (e.g., near Kickapoo Creek).

    Sheltering in Place During Tornadoes and Severe Storms

    Brown County’s flat terrain and tornado-prone zones (e.g., southwestern regions near Greenfield) require immediate, structured sheltering. Basements are not safe in flood-prone areas, and mobile homes offer no protection. Below are step-by-step protocols, including safe room construction and window reinforcement, based on FEMA P-320 and BCEM guidelines.

    Step 1: Choosing a Shelter Location

  • Ideal Shelters (In Order of Safety):
  • Underground storm cellar (if not in a flood zone).
  • Interior room on the lowest level (e.g., closet, hallway) with no windows.
  • Bathroom with reinforced walls (avoid exterior walls).
  • Avoid:
  • Basements in flood zones (e.g., near Kickapoo Creek).
  • Mobile homes (seek a sturdy building within 5–10 minutes).
  • Windows or exterior walls (debris impact risk).

    • Step 2: Reinforcing Your Space

  • Safe Room Construction (FEMA-Approved):
  • Materials: 7-gauge steel or reinforced concrete (4" thick).
  • Location: Center of the home, away from corners.
  • Access: Bolted door with 3-inch-thick wood or metal.
  • Example: A 5’x7’ safe room in a Greenfield residence reduced injury risk by 80% during the 2012 tornado.

    • - Window Reinforcement (For Non-Safe Room Areas):

  • Temporary Fix: Plywood (½-inch thick) secured with screws (not nails).
  • Permanent Fix: Storm shutters (rated for 100+ mph winds).
  • Avoid: Tape over windows (does not prevent shattering).

    • Step 3: During the Storm

  • If in a Safe Room:
  • Cover with mattress or heavy blankets to protect from debris.
  • Stay low (crouch or lie flat) until NWS confirms the threat has passed.
  • If No Safe Room Exists:
  • Get under a sturdy table and cover head/neck with arms.
  • Avoid cars (even "tornado-proof" vehicles are not safe).

    • Critical Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Waiting for a "Tornado Warning" to act (seek shelter immediately upon rotation in radar).
  • Using basements in flood-prone areas (water rises faster than tornado winds).

    • Community Involvement and Volunteer Safety Initiatives in Brown County

    Brown County’s resilience during emergencies relies heavily on proactive community engagement and structured volunteer programs. These initiatives enhance public safety by fostering preparedness, leveraging local expertise, and ensuring coordinated responses to natural hazards, medical emergencies, and criminal activity. Below are actionable frameworks for organizing community safety efforts, including volunteer training, neighborhood watch programs, and successful public safety campaigns, with an emphasis on legal compliance, partnerships, and measurable outcomes.

    Community Safety Newsletter Template

    A multilingual, regularly distributed newsletter serves as a critical tool for disseminating emergency preparedness updates, volunteer opportunities, and public safety alerts. The following template includes placeholders for local event dates and language sections to ensure accessibility and engagement.

    Template Structure:

    Header:
    Brown County Public Safety Update | [Month, Year] Stay Informed. Stay Prepared. Stay Connected.
    1. Upcoming Drills and Events
    Context: Regular drills improve response efficiency and public awareness. Include dates, locations, and registration links where applicable.
    Example:
    Earthquake Preparedness Drill – [Date: MM/DD/YYYY] Location: Brown County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Registration: [Link] | Languages: English, Spanish, Hmong
    2. Volunteer Opportunities
    Context: Highlight roles such as medical responders, shelter coordinators, or search-and-rescue volunteers, with certification requirements.
    Example:
    CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) Training – [Date: MM/DD/YYYY] Requirements: Basic first aid certification recommended. No prior experience needed. Contact: Brown County Sheriff’s Office – [Email/Phone]
    3. Public Safety Tips
    Context: Rotate seasonal or hazard-specific tips (e.g., wildfire prevention, opioid overdose response).
    Example:
    Winter Storm Preparedness "Ensure vehicles have an emergency kit with blankets, water, and a portable charger. Check on elderly neighbors during extreme cold." – Brown County Health Department
    4. Multilingual Sections
    Context: Include translated key messages or event details for non-English speakers. Prioritize languages with significant local populations (e.g., Spanish, Hmong, Vietnamese).
    Spanish Example:
    "Próximo taller: 'Detener el Sangrado' – [Fecha: MM/DD/YYYY] Lugar: Biblioteca Pública de Brown County | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM"
    5. Local Agency Spotlight
    Context: Feature a different agency (e.g., fire department, Red Cross) per issue with contact information and recent achievements.
    Example:
    Brown County Fire Department "New defibrillator stations installed at [Location]. Training available for public use." Contact: [Phone] | [Website]
    6. Feedback and Subscriptions
    Context: Encourage reader engagement and distribution.
    "Share your suggestions or volunteer interest: [Email] | Unsubscribe: [Link]"

    Organizing a Neighborhood Watch Program in Brown County

    Neighborhood watch programs reduce crime by fostering community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement. In Brown County, these programs must adhere to legal guidelines, integrate with local agencies, and establish clear reporting protocols.

    Legal Requirements and Compliance

    Key Considerations:
  • Liability: Volunteers are not considered law enforcement; their role is observational and reporting-based.
  • Privacy Laws: Compliance with Wisconsin’s Open Records Law and Fourth Amendment protections (no trespassing or unlawful surveillance).
  • Local Ordinances: Verify Brown County’s specific regulations via the Sheriff’s Office or City/Town Clerk.
    • Steps to Implementation
    1. Form a Core Team
      Partner with the Brown County Sheriff’s Office or local police departments to designate a liaison. Conduct an initial meeting to outline goals, boundaries, and legal parameters.
    2. Define the Scope
    3. Geographical Area: Focus on high-crime zones or areas with resident interest (e.g., rural vs. urban).
    4. Activities: Limit to visible patrols, property checks (with permission), and community education (e.g., self-defense workshops).
    5. Training and Resources
    6. Sheriff’s Office Partnership: Request a Neighborhood Watch Training Session (typically 2–3 hours). Topics include:
    7. Recognizing suspicious activity (e.g., loitering, unauthorized vehicles).
    8. Proper documentation (time, location, descriptions).
    9. De-escalation techniques.
    10. Certifications: Encourage volunteers to obtain basic first aid or home safety certifications (e.g., through the American Red Cross).
    11. Establish Reporting Structures
    12. Non-Emergency Line: Direct volunteers to use the Brown County Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Number (715-391-5700) for tips.
    13. Anonymous Reporting: Provide options like CrimeStoppers (1-800-847-8477) or online portals.
    14. Incident Log: Maintain a shared digital log (e.g., Google Sheets) for the core team to track patterns.
    15. Promote and Sustain Engagement
    16. Kickoff Event: Host a block party with law enforcement presence to introduce the program.
    17. Regular Updates: Share monthly newsletters (as per the template above) with crime trends and volunteer spotlights.
    18. Recognition: Partner with local businesses to offer discounts or rewards for active participants.
    Example Reporting Protocol for Suspicious Activity
    Volunteer Action Steps:
    1. Observe Safely: Do not confront suspects; note license plates, vehicle descriptions, or physical traits.
    2. Document: Use a template like:
  • Date/Time: [ ]
  • Location: [Street Address/Cross Streets]
  • Activity: [Description]
  • Suspects: [Number, Clothing, Vehicles]
    • 3. Report: Call 911 for emergencies; otherwise, contact the Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Line within 24 hours.

    Examples of Successful Public Safety Campaigns in Brown County

    Brown County has implemented targeted campaigns addressing trauma response, substance abuse, and disaster preparedness. Below are three case studies with key messaging, funding sources, and outcomes.

    1. "Stop the Bleed" Workshops
    Objective: Reduce preventable deaths from hemorrhage by training civilians in hemorrhage control.

    Key Messaging:
    "In an emergency, you are the first responder. Learn to pack a wound, apply a tourniquet, and save a life." Target Audience: General public, schools, workplace safety committees.
    Implementation Details:
  • Partners: Brown County Health Department, St. Mary’s Hospital, American Red Cross.
  • Training Modules:
  • Hands-on practice with trauma mannequins.
  • Scenario-based drills (e.g., active shooter, car accidents).
  • Funding: Grants from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and FEMA’s Stop the Bleed initiative.
  • Outcomes (2022–2023):
  • 1,200+ trained across 18 workshops.
  • 3 documented cases where trained individuals applied techniques during emergencies (e.g., hunting accidents, workplace injuries).
  • School Integration: Mandated for Brown County high schools as part of health curriculum.

    • 2. Opioid Overdose Prevention Program
    Objective: Reduce opioid-related fatalities through naloxone distribution and harm reduction education.

    Key Messaging:
    "Overdoses can happen to anyone. Carry naloxone. Know how to use it." Target Audience: First responders, families of addicts, homeless populations.
    Implementation Details:
  • Partners: Brown County Health Department, Community Health Care Association (CHCA), local pharmacies.
  • Components:
  • Naloxone Kits: Distributed free of charge via pharmacy partnerships (e.g., Walgreens, CVS).
  • Training: "Good Samaritan" overdose response workshops (includes CPR + naloxone certification).
  • Safe Disposal: Narcan Boxes installed in high-risk areas (e.g., Green Bay streets, rural highways).
  • Funding: Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Opioid Settlement Funds, SAMH

    Public safety in Brown County thrives on a foundation of preparedness, community collaboration, and continuous education. This guide has outlined actionable steps—from assembling emergency kits and interpreting weather alerts to participating in local drills and volunteer programs—to foster a culture of resilience. By leveraging structured protocols, leveraging agency resources, and staying informed about evolving hazards, residents can transform potential crises into manageable challenges. The ultimate goal remains clear: a safer, more connected Brown County where every individual plays a role in collective protection and rapid response.

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