What kind of emergency planning is happening at the Four Corners Health Department?

The Four Corners Health Department is involved in planning for:

• Possible outbreaks of infectious disease like Pandemic Flu
• Acts of bioterrorism and/or terrorism
• Any other emergencies or disasters that threaten the health of the Four Corners district communities.

How does the emergency planning at Four Corners fit in with other local plans?

These planning activities are done in collaboration with emergency managers, hospitals, health care providers, law enforcement, fire departments, public officials and other partners in local emergency response.

What is the role of the Four Corners Health Department and Public Health in responding to a Public Health Emergency?

Our role in responding to a public health emergency event includes early detection, investigation and control, rapid communication of essential information, vaccine and prophylactic medicine distribution and assurance of environmental safety.  Public health must be prepared to assist other responders with food, water and other public health issues as a consequence of natural disasters and hazardous material incidents.

What can I do to plan for a disaster or public health emergency?

• Create a Family Disaster Plan
  www.ready.gov/america/makeaplan/index.html
  www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_601_,00.html
  
  Download the following pdfs:
  Family and Friends
  Home Layout Diagram
  Medication List
  Pets and Vehicles
  Pharmacy/Doctor/Specialist
  Reunion Procedures
  Utility and Service Contacts
  Utility Control
  
  
• Prepare a kit of emergency supplies
  www.ready.gov/america/getakit/index.html
  www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_601_,00.html
  
  
• Learn about agents, diseases and other threats
  www.bt.cdc.gov
  
• Learn more about naturally-occurring diseases

How do I volunteer to help in a public health emergency or disaster?

The Four Corners Health Department is actively looking for volunteers who would be available to help in the event of a public health emergency or disaster.  Volunteers to provide general help or with experience in nursing, first aid, security, computers, food preparation, language skills and other abilities would be needed.  These volunteers might be asked to assist in various public health activities including the effort of vaccinating or providing medications to the citizens of their county or the Four Corners District.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, you may submit this contact form for more information.