2007 – Michigan’s Year of Public Health 2007 – Michigan’s Year of Public Health
Shiawassee County Health Department Kicks off
“Be Prepared – Protect Your Family” Month in April
Disasters can happen at any time. The potential of severe weather, e-coli outbreaks, pandemic influenza, or a hazardous materials accident are just a few of the would-be disasters that have raised concerns among many Shiawassee County residents. While the Shiawassee County Health Department is working to protect the community in the event of an emergency, health officials are urging everyone to take responsibility for the safety of their family and be prepared for all emergencies.
In an emergency, your safety and the safety of your family may depend on decisions made in a few seconds. This is why it is so critical to be prepared - have a plan and supplies, remain calm, stay informed, and be ready to activate your disaster plans.
Here are some things that families can do to prepare for a potential disaster:
- Be proactive, not reactive. Create a family emergency plan and talk about it ahead of time – taking action before an emergency occurs helps people deal with disasters of all sorts much more effectively when they do occur.
- If you are like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household. Your family emergency plan must include your pets. Being prepared can save their lives.
- If a winter storm, power outage, or other disaster strikes your community, you might not have access to food, water, and electricity for several days. You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days.
- Keep a battery operated radio nearby and tune your radio to 92.5 for information.
Shiawassee County Health Department is committed to preventing disease, protecting the public’s health and enhancing the quality of life by providing information and services. For more information please contact the Health Department at 989-743-2484. More information can also be accessed on the following websites: