Hurricane Response Guide for Environmental Public Health Professionals
Readiness Actions The following are readiness considerations to review before hurricane season (June 1st): Understand the National Incident Management System (NIMS)/Incident Command System (ICS) as learned in entry-level ICS courses (see Appendix 1-A ). Review national guidelines to ensure understanding of national best practices in hurricane preparedness, response, and recovery. Assess potential EPH risks and identify new community vulnerabilities and threats , such as areas prone to flooding and new facilities or industries that may store or produce hazardous materials (HAZMAT). Gather an adequate supply of resources prior to hurricane season. This includes sampling equipment, communications, and radios. Understand your role in your jurisdiction’s ICS and communicate how you can provide support before, during, and after a hurricane. Coordinate with other local responders to establish a working relationship before hurricane season begins. Develop, update, print, and disseminate educational materials on EPH and risk communication strategies to inform the public about hazards, protective measures, and emergency procedures. Ensure proper functioning and maintenance of environmental monitoring and surveillance systems . Support the assessment of critical facilities and infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities and recommend necessary upgrades or mitigation measures. Identify and assess facilities with HAZMAT , ensuring proper safety and containment plans and measures are in place. Collaborate with emergency management and the lead disaster shelter organizations to list and assess potential shelter locations and temporary housing sites to ensure facilities meet EPH and safety standards. Develop, update, and gain approval for press releases or social media templates addressing common EPH issues and provide these templates to public information officers. Communicate with elected officials and boards of health to determine where risk exposures exist and assess the magnitude of those anticipated risks. Participate in training and exercises to test and refine emergency response plans, protocols, and decision-making processes . Prepping for the Field Before working in the field to respond to a hurricane, whether locally or in collaboration with another jurisdiction, it is crucial to take proactive measures to enhance the safety, effectiveness, and readiness of responding personnel. These initial steps will prepare you to carry out your duties safely and effectively in the hurricane-affected area. 1. Attend briefings about the incident to understand the specific mission objectives, potential hazards, and overall situation on the ground. This information may be available through the Incident Action Plan (IAP) of your state, tribal, local, or territorial (STLT) Emergency Operations Center (EOC). 2. Gather all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, gowns, high-visibility vests). Ensure that the PPE is in good condition and fits properly . Check all expiration dates on equipment and restock as needed. Specific guidance may be found in your Health and Safety Plan . 3. If you are eligible, enroll your cell phone into FirstNet . 4. Identify, print, or prepare existing health communication materials that can be quickly distributed after a storm. 5. Assemble a go-bag (see Attachment 2 ).
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