Office of Emergency Preparedness Mission
Our mission is to effectively respond to any emergency impacting public health through preparation, collaboration, education and rapid intervention. VDH Emergency Preparedness involves state, regional and local emergency response partners working together to enhance readiness to respond to all hazards, including bioterrorism, infectious disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies.
Upcoming OEP Training Opportunities
National Preparedness Month -- September 2023
Older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas. Older adults may have specific needs after a disaster.
Start preparing now.
Yo
ur pet is an important member of your household. Unfortunately, animals are also affected by disaster. Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals during an emergency. Some ideas: develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for your pets if you are unable to do so.
Start preparing now.
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. An emergency kit with food and supplies is vital to sustaining you and your family after a disaster. You may need to prepare multiple kits. Preparedness kits should be checked at least every six months or when items expire. In addition to supplies, kits may contain copies of identification, insurance documents, personal contact information, and list of medications.
Start preparing now.
Hurricanes can pack a powerful punch. In addition to damaging winds, flooding is also a major risk of hurricanes. Storm surge historically is the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the United States.
Start preparing now.
Emergency Kit Cook-Off Flyer
Do you have a recipe that can offer some comfort in an emergency situation? Recipes must be prepared using only non perishable pantry items and manual appliances. Cook-off happens September 12th. Direct any questions to Adreania Toliver at adreania.toliver@vdh.virginia.gov.
Zydeco Dance Demonstration
Our very own Jarene Fleming, State Breastfeeding Coordinator, will be providing a Zydeco dance demonstration. Zydeco as a dance style has its roots in a form of folk dance that corresponds to the heavily syncopated zydeco music, originated in the beginning of the 20th century among the Francophone Creole peoples of Acadiana. It is a partner dance that has been primarily danced socially and sometimes in performances.
More Emergency Resources
