Emergency Preparedness

The purpose of the health department’s emergency preparedness program is to improve the department’s ability to respond to threats to public health, including acts of bioterrorism, hazmat incidents, natural disasters, and potential disease outbreaks.

The health department:

• Provides emergency preparedness awareness and education, including 72-hour kits at health fairs and other forums.
• Collaborates with partners (the Local Emergency Preparedness Committee, Red Cross, Veterans Administration, St. Peter's Hospital, etc.) that provide emergency services in an effort to integrate community preparedness.
• Offers presentations about pandemic influenza and 72-hour preparedness to community groups.
• Facilitates volunteer opportunities at the health department both during regular operations and during emergencies.