Hurricane Response Guide for Environmental Public Health Professionals
Monitor and report on environmental conditions that may pose risks to responders (e.g., heat, contaminated floodwaters). Implement a buddy system for EPH field teams working in potentially hazardous areas. Assist in organizing and staffing community information centers or health clinics. Provide on-site guidance to residents on safe cleanup procedures and health protection measures. Collaborate with community leaders to address specific EPH concerns in their areas. Implement a system for collecting and managing EPH field data. Produce regular reports on EPH activities, findings, and recommendations for leadership. Pro Tips Must Know Key Partners in Hurricane Response Environmental public health professionals must be familiar with the following partners and stakeholders typically involved in hurricane response: Emergency Management Agencies: State, tribal, local, territorial (STLT), and federal agencies (e.g., Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA) that coordinate overall disaster response efforts Public Health Departments: STLT health departments that oversee public health measures and disease surveillance Utility Companies: Water, power, and gas providers crucial for infrastructure restoration Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities that may need support Environmental Protection Agencies: STLT agencies responsible for environmental regulations and hazardous waste management Law Enforcement and Fire Departments: First responders who assist with evacuations and safety measures Transportation Departments: Responsible for road clearance and transportation infrastructure Housing Authorities: Involved in shelter operations and temporary housing solutions Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs): Organizations, such as the American Red Cross, that provide various support services Community Organizations: Local groups that can assist with outreach and support to vulnerable populations Meteorological Services: Provide ongoing weather information crucial for response planning Waste Management Agencies: Essential for debris removal and proper waste disposal Vector Control Districts: Help manage increased pest and vector issues post-hurricane Mental Health Services: Provide psychological support to affected communities and responders Educational Institutions: May serve as shelters or resource centers Foundation of Risk Communication 5 When developing communication strategies and messages in high-stress situations, remember that when people are concerned, stressed, or upset, they: want to know that you care before they care what you know have difficulty hearing, understanding, and remembering information focus most on what they hear first focus more on the negative than on the positive experience wider gaps between risk perceptions and reality
5 Adapted from Dr. Vincent Covello, Director of the Center for Risk Communication
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