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Public Health Emergency Preparedness Disaster Recovery
07/24/2024

Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Recovery – Where to Start? The foundation lies in the All Hazards Approach. What potential risks could pose a threat to you and your loved ones or damage your property? Getting informed, creating an emergency plan, and assembling a kit are good initial steps. A helpful tip is to store your insurance details and critical documents in a waterproof bag in a secure location.

 

Ready.gov and Texasready.gov can assist you in developing your emergency preparedness plan and building a kit. Make sure to review your plan and practice at least annually.

 

Stay informed by tuning in to updates from your local, state, and national government officials, reliable news outlets, social media, and websites providing the most accurate and up-to-date information on the threat.

 

After it is safe to go back to your community and home, take steps to safeguard and shield your property from additional harm. To assess the damage, create a detailed list of the affected items and take photos both before and after. Keep your insurance agent's contact details handy and contact them promptly to initiate the claims process.

 

Always prioritize your health and safety. Make sure to have the proper cleaning supplies and wear the proper personal protection for the task at hand. The "Water Damage Restoration and Cleanup Checklist" from Texas A&M AgriLife-Disaster Education Network can guide you through the cleanup process.

 

For more information, visit: https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/assets/environment-natural-resources/disaster-preparedness-recovery/

 


For mold cleanup and remediation, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/mold/cleanup.htm

 

If you are not able to clean your home yourself from mold issues, seek assistance from a professional Mold Remediation Restoration Company.

 

Remember to prioritize children's safety. Young children are naturally curious and may be at risk of injury from debris or exposure to environmental particles in the air or mold. The CDC offers valuable information and resources on safeguarding children.

 

For more details, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/kids_cleanup_safety.html

 

Once cleanup and repairs are underway, the question arises: where does all the debris end up? Contact your local government office to find out about designated pickup and drop-off locations. Learn how to sort and separate household items and hazardous materials for safe disposal in compliance with environmental regulations. Your local government office might have private contracts with private debris management firms or nearby counties/cities to offer these services. For specific details, contact your local government office.

 


Dealing with the overwhelming weight of the world during a disaster can be challenging, especially when providing financial support, caring for a family, facing property damage, unemployment, or the loss of a loved one. Mental health stressors can strain both your mind and body, impacting existing medical conditions. The first step is to recognize you are going through a mental health crisis. The next step involves reaching out to a trusted family member or friend for support and, if necessary, seeking counseling or treatment from a healthcare professional. Remember, you are not alone in this. Various roles, such as being a victim, first responder, healthcare worker, critical infrastructure worker, governmental employee, or volunteer during a disaster, can expose individuals to mental health stressors or crises.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National is a free, confidential, 24/7/365 treatment referral and information service. Telephone services: 988 Suicide and Crisis Life Line: Call or text 988, Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 and National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Web link: https://www.samhsa.gov/.

 

Remember, Always Stay Safe and Healthy!

 

Ralph Montes is the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Victoria County. He has 31 years of combined experience in Healthcare, Hospital Emergency Preparedness, and Public Health Emergency Preparedness.