Emergency Preparedness and Response

The Florida Department of Health in Calhoun County (DOH-Calhoun) is involved in preparedness activities such as the staffing of Special Needs Shelters and the Public Health and Medical desk at the Emergency Operation Center during declared disasters. DOH-Calhoun staff continue to participate in routine training and preparedness exercises with other local agencies and community partners. In addition, staff in tandem with DOH-Calhoun planners, participate in purchasing activities to secure supplies and equipment with Public Health Preparedness funds, as part of an annual preparedness cycle.

During times of disaster, DOH-Calhoun staff work with local Emergency Management officials as well as all other local government agencies and managers to provide the foundation of support that is essential to successful response and recovery efforts. Through the local DOH-Calhoun "Emergency Operations Plan", the continued functionality of DOH-Calhoun facilities and operations is assured through the Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government portions of the plan. Through this part of the plan, the ability of DOH-Calhoun to remain functional, and provide services to the community during any disaster is greatly enhanced.

DOH-Calhoun is committed to serving the needs of our community during any man-made or natural disaster.

Special Medical Needs Shelters

During a disaster, special needs shelters are designed to care for people who do not require hospitalization, but have the following needs:

• Require oxygen therapy
• Unable to take medications or monitor vital signs without assistance
• Have chronic conditions requiring professional observation or assistance
• Health conditions that require isolation and cannot be in a public/general shelter