Public Health Emergency Preparedness activities are designed to facilitate the Health Department's response to a variety of public health threats. Preparedness planning encompasses a wide range of threats, including a pandemic influenza outbreak, a natural disaster (tornado/earthquake), an industrial accident, or a possible terrorist incident.
The Howard County Health Department uses a federal grant to provide training for personnel, build relationships with other public safety agencies, provide community education, and write plans to respond to public health threats in our community.
One of the key elements of public health preparedness is education. If you have a group of people that could benefit from learning more about a likely public health threat, please contact the Health Department to discuss scheduling a presentation.
Volunteers are a key component of Preparedness activities. During a public health emergency, the Health Department will set up Point of Dispensing (POD) clinics to dispense medical treatments to counter the danger to public health (prophylaxis). Medical volunteers are necessary to help dispense vaccine/prophylaxis and access patients. Non-medical volunteers are necessary to help set up and tear down the POD, update medical records, manage supplies, and for many other sundry jobs. Volunteers are expected to participate in two call-down drills a year where the Preparedness Director will call them and check contact information and availability. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in full-scale drills when they are scheduled for training. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please fill out the Volunteer Form below and mail it to the Health Department, attention to the PHEC.
Summer heat is coming. Are you prepared? CrisisReady is covering tips to stay cool, even when the power is out. Learn who is at most risk of suffering heat-related illnesses, as well as what signs to look for and how to respond. Free preparedness items and resources will be available to participants.
After the presentation, receive your CPR certification (BLS) while learning how to apply rescue breaths, compressions, and how to use an AED. CPR is a life-saving first aid skill. There is not an age limit, but participants must be able to pass a written test and skills check. Registration is required for this portion of the event. The certification costs $25 (pay that night via cash, Zelle, or Venmo).
Registration required for the Certified CPR portion: https://form.jotform.com/243314812932150
