Emergency Resource Guide
Compiled jointly by the Washington Military Department and the Washington State Department of Health, this publication is aimed at educating people on preparation and, where possible, prevention of natural, biological and household emergencies. The easy-to-read resource guide includes information about what to do before, during and after specific emergencies, essential emergency supplies to keep handy, how to prevent the spread of germs and access medications and vaccinations during a public health emergency, and using the 911 system effectively.
Coordinating Office for Terrorism Preparedness & Emergency Response (COTPER)
The federal Centers for Disease Control’s new COTPER website went up in April with the mission of providing strategic direction, coordination, and support for the CDC’s terrorism preparedness and emergency response activities. The site is an entry into a wealth of federal emergency preparedness resources, including information on training, preparation and planning, bioterrorism, chemical emergencies, mass casualties and other man-made and natural disasters.
Arizona Geological Survey Earth Fissure Maps
As the result of groundwater withdrawal, Arizona geological researchers are seeing more earth fissure activity. Growth in areas such as Phoenix and Tucson areas exacerbate the activity. Because the fissures are a hazard that can endanger people, property, roads and other infrastructure, the AZGS is now mapping earth fissures and making that information available to the public on 1:12,000-scale maps. This website allows users to download maps, see fissure photos and video, and access reports and news on fissure activity.
World Health Organization’s 60th Anniversary Site
This site marks the World Health Organization’s 60th anniversary with a variety of WHO resources, links to anniversary activities, videos, podcasts and other items that look at the history and the future of the organization. Visitors can view an exhibit of 60 years worth of WHO photos online; read up on historic health campaigns or listen to a history of world health.
Hospitals Safe from Disasters
The Pan American Health Organization, partnering with International Strategy for Disaster Reduction launched the Safe Hospitals site earlier this year to promote its global campaign to reduce disaster vulnerability in health facilities. The campaign focuses on structural safety of health facilities, keeping facilities functioning during and after disasters, and preparing health workers for emergencies. The site provides information about the campaign, news, resources and a hospital safety index that will help officials gauge the safety of their healthcare facilities.
Pacific Disaster Center Web Resources
The Pacific Disaster Center released enhanced versions of its Natural Hazards and Vulnerabilities Atlases and its emergency manager support systems this month. The atlas upgrades include more and different data, including historical and near real-time data for various hazards, as well as information about population, infrastructure, terrain and the environment. The online atlases also allow users to filter datasets. Upgrades to the Center’s secure decision support and early warning also are more functional. The password-protected provides decision makers and responders with integrated disaster warning, modeling, event analysis, and collaboration in both simulated and real disasters. The site also serves as the subscription center for alerts informing professionals about developing conditions that could require their attention.