Public Health Emergencies The possibility of public health
emergencies concerns many people in the wake of recent natural
disasters, acts of terrorism and the threat of pandemic
influenza. Though some feel it is impossible to be prepared for
unexpected events, the truth is that taking preparedness actions
helps people deal with disasters more effectively. What steps
can you take to prepare? Step 1: Get A Kit You may need to
survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your
own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to
last for at least three days. Local officials and relief workers
will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach
everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might
take days. In addition, basic services such as electricity, gas,
water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days,
or even a week or longer. Step 2: Make A Plan Make a Family
Emergency Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster
strikes, so it is important to