Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Please contact (812) 883-5603 ext. 4
The Washington County Health Department works closely with the Washington County's EMA, the State Department of Health, and the CDC to develop preparedness plans for various health emergencies.
Effective emergency preparedness and response are crucial for minimizing the impact of crises. Comprehensive plans enable communities to reduce the damage from natural and man-made disasters. Preparedness involves training emergency personnel, educating the public, and facilitating rapid mobilization during emergencies, thereby mitigating casualties and destruction. A coordinated response ensures timely aid to those in need, upholding public safety and swiftly restoring normalcy. Furthermore, preparedness builds community resilience, helping them recover more quickly and withstand future emergencies. This collective effort highlights the importance of cooperation among governments, organizations, and citizens to protect lives, infrastructure, and overall well-being.
Disasters can have devastating effects, impacting countless lives and causing severe damage to individuals and property. These events leave lasting impacts on communities. When disaster strikes, local authorities and relief organizations will strive to assist, but you must also be prepared to look after yourself. Emergency responders may not be able to reach you immediately or may need to focus on other areas. It is essential to know how to respond to various regional emergencies, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme weather, floods, or attacks. You should be self-sufficient for at least three days, with necessary supplies for shelter, first aid, food, water, and sanitation.
The Washington County Health Department is seeking volunteers who want to assist our public health and healthcare systems during an event or disaster. Interested volunteers may register at www.serv-in.org. Although healthcare volunteers are encouraged to register, a background in healthcare is not required to become a volunteer.
SERV-IN Registration Steps:
1) Visit the SERV-IN website, www.SERV-IN.org.
2) Click on "Register Now".
3) Complete the online application. Your status will be "pending" until you are accepted in the Washington County Health Department volunteer group.
4) New volunteers may be contacted to determine interests and match you with a role. Call-down drills are conducted biannually to confirm accuracy of contact information.