Disasters and Public Health Threats
Hope for the Best, and Prepare for the Worst
Earthquakes, slides, pandemic flu and other disease outbreaks, and accidents or exposures involving hazardous substances are real or potential health threats to individuals and communities. They can affect air quality, cause shortages of safe water and food, and cut off your access to electricity, gas, telephone, medicines, and other services. Family members may be separated. Hospitals and other health services may be overwhelmed during public health emergencies. Although such incidents are difficult to prepare for, there are steps you can take to protect your health and well-being.
So, what can you do to be prepared?
- Learn how specific public health threats might affect you and what you can do to reduce the risk to your health and safety. This chapter explains how harmful bacteria and viruses, dangerous chemicals, and other health hazards can spread through a community and how you can limit your exposure to them.
- Create an emergency plan and supplies kit to provide for yourself and your family during a community emergency. See the "Get Organized" section of this topic.
- Always refer to local authorities and health experts for specific, up-to-date information for your community. For more information, see the Web sites of the following agencies:
- Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC): http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
- Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response (CEPR): http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cepr-cmiu/
- World Health Organization (WHO): http://www.who.int
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| Author: | Douglas Dana | Last Updated: May 26, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine | |
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| Topic Contents | |
 | Hope for the Best, and Prepare for the Worst |
| Health Threats in Your Community | |
| Disease Transmission from Humans, Animals, and Insects | |
| Get Organized | |
| Other Places To Get Help | |
| Credits | |