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 respond to these two discussion post. The topic is about Disaster Preparedness.

Discussion 1: Emanuela

Depending on the region you are living, your community, like most, might have a disaster preparedness in place. “Disaster preparedness plans are actions plans developed in anticipation of disaster scenarios, providing a framework for response to emergency situations. They are proactive planning efforts that provide structure to a disaster response before it happens.” (DeMarco & Healey-Walsh, 2020) These plans are in place to protect the community and their people. Communities that are prepared for different disasters can react better and not panic in the situation. This allows for a better outcome and survival rate.  

So how should communities actually prepare for such a disaster? The big answer is, working together. Providing the necessary skills each individual is good at. Research shows that, “’tight-knit communities with strong, locally driven organizations respond better in disaster situations,”’ he said. “’That means that any work you do to build community, from strengthening a P.T.A. to starting a local business that serves as a community hub, will naturally help your neighborhood be better prepared.”’ (Henry, 2018)
Once a group is formed, individuals can be broken down to the other groups based on their abilities. Providing alternative shelter and routes in case of an emergency to the community is also necessary. The impact such a preparedness would have on my community is significant. During a hurricane season, here in Florida, most know to be prepared by having surplus of water, gas, medication, cash, and canned foods. The knowledge of possessing these simple items have thought the Floridians how to properly prepare for a natural disaster.  

In previous post I’ve mentioned how poorer areas do not have the necessary supplies and structures to withstand a hurricane. Therefore, it is important and significant to know what to do in case of disaster. If those communities and homeless are left without a plan, a lot of innocent people end up dying or getting hurt. One way to also know where and what to do in our state is to look on the Florida state website. It discusses the difference between different storms along with how to protect your home. For instance, “During a watch, prepare your home and evacuation plan in case a warning is issued. During a warning, carefully follow the directions of officials, and immediately leave the area if they advise it. In the event of an Extreme Wind Warning/Advisory, which means that extreme sustained winds of 115 mph or greater are expected to begin within an hour, immediately take shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.” (Harrison) Being prepared in communities allows for a better fighting chance against mother nature. 

Discussion 2 : Courtney

When disaster strikes in a community, with the lack of a plan or limited resources, citizens can be left in severe distress due to the unknown. That is why it is imperative for public health officials to have a plan in place for every possible emergency. Disaster preparedness involves having the means necessary, both resources and people, readily available. Community involves many teams working together as one. DeMarco and Healey-Walsh describe preparedness as an ongoing effort with many moving parts. “Working relationships can be strengthened by formalizing mutual aid agreements with regional health, police, and fire departments; volunteer organizations such as the Red Cross and other local planning groups; healthcare organizations; schools; and state response coordinators.” (2020) In partnership with these organizations, PHN’s play a cover-all role, as not only providers but also as educators to the population involved. The Association of Public Health Nurses states the role of the nurse as: “A PHN’s clinical knowledge in multiple determinants of health and epidemiology and well-honed community assessment skills serve a crucial role in disaster preparedness, response and recovery.” (2014) Public health nurses should take charge of educating their city’s citizens about what to do in preparation for a disaster. This will involve some teaching and education about supplies the household should obtain, ways to interact with one another during the period of recovery, and what the citizens role could possibly look like once achieving personal haven after disaster. 

In my hometown, Pittsfield, MA, we host a rather large National Guard base. It is assuring to know that with the combination of those men and women as well as the many first responders including myself, that we would be able to handle a disaster should it arise. We have the largest hospital in Berkshire County located in the center of Pittsfield as well. Our surrounding towns are close in proximity, having first responders accessible, well-equipped and trained. On my hometown’s website, cityofpittsfield.org, the city addresses its stance on community emergencies.  

“The mission of the Pittsfield Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is to serve the citizens of the City through effective planning to minimize the effects of attack, technological and natural disasters.  Our goal is to save lives and to protect property through coordination of an integrated emergency management system with all emergency response organizations, support services and volunteers.” (n.d.) 

Some examples of emergencies/disasters experienced by my region are mostly winter storm emergencies, with associated snow removal and extreme cold temperatures. We have also had extreme winds with actual and tornado warnings in the past, but thankfully none to my knowledge during my lifetime have been severe enough to warrant any sort of disaster activation. Knowing this information, we have a large crew of city workers who work long hours during the winter season to keep our roads safe and accessible. Disaster is not a feat that can be tackled alone, but with the establishment of a community plan, there is a greater chance of survival and restoration.