www.adph.org
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
ARE YOU READY?
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
DISEASE CONTROL | NATURAL DISASTERS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS | INJURY PREVENTION | FOOD & WATER SAFETY
| COPING WITH DISASTERS | PANDEMIC INFLUENZA
MESSAGE FROM THE STATE HEALTH OFFICER
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Many types of disasters can create
public health problems--weather,
chemical, radiological and biological.
Injury or illness can occur as a direct
result of the event, or as a result of people
trying to cope with the event.
The most important fact to remember
about any disaster is this: by being
prepared, you can help prevent or reduce
harm to your family, yourself and others.
This booklet was written to give you
basic disaster preparedness education.
I urge you to take the time to read the
information and make your own
emergency plans with family, friends,
caregivers and co-workers. You should
update these plans at least once a year,
or when there is an important change in
contacts or other information.
Public Health has provided education for
over 125 years in Alabama to help people
prevent disease and injury. We have
worked with a wide variety of
organizations, businesses and individuals on
preparedness and prevention activities.
This work has saved countless people from
disability and loss of life. We ask you to
remember that it is vital that you be a part
of Alabama’s efforts to be ready for
whatever disasters may come.
Donald E. Williamson, M.D.
State Health Officer
If you would like to learn about joining
the Alabama Department of Public
Health Volunteer Network, either as an
individual or as a unit from a hospital,
Medical Reserve Corps, or other
organization, please contact us:
www.adph.org/volunteer
or call: 334/206-3394
Toll-free 866-264-4073
BE READY FOR AN EMERGENCY
Five Important Things to Do
INTRODUCTION/TABLE OF CONTENTS
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1. Stay informed. Knowing about the hazards that may strike your
community and the risks you face could be lifesaving. Learn
about emergency alert systems and weather alerts.
2. Learn about basic injury an