Birth/Death
Certificates Important
Government
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Emergency
Preparedness
and Bioterrorism
Bioterrorism means the
"the deliberate or threatened use of bacteria, viruses or toxins to
cause disease, death, disruption or fear."
Since the attacks of 9-11-01 and the anthrax attacks that followed, the
nation has increased its awareness and preparedness toward bioterrorism
and other public emergencies. Planning and response teams have been formed
throughout the nation in an effort to protect our citizens.
But we need your help. You can take three simple steps to empower yourself
and your family against bioterrorism and other public emergencies.
Plan.
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Make an emergency plan for your family and practice it. (Include your pets).
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Know the emergency plan at your workplace, your church, your child's school or daycare, or other places where you spend time.
Prepare.
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Put together a Disaster Supplies Kit.
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Learn all you can about bioterrorism and the realistic threat of a biological attack.
- Live each day of life to the fullest! (Remember, keep the threat of bioterrorism in perspective, and enjoy each day of life).
Participate.
We know that the first
response to a disaster of any kind will be a local response. We need to be
prepared to take care of ourselves and our community for at least 7 to 14
days until outside help can arrive.
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Volunteer with agencies like the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.
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Join groups like Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS), the Citizen Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)..
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Get involved in preparedness efforts in your workplace, your neighborhood and your community.
- Learn CPR and First Aid.
In
an Emergency
If you believe
that you have been exposed to a biological or chemical agent, or if you
believe an intentional biological threat is occurring, please contact your
local health department and law enforcement authorities.
If
you are in immediate danger, call 911.
To schedule a Speaker call 904 253-1270.
Duval County Health Department
Main Office
515 W. 6th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32206
253-1000
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