On this page
- What is Public Health's role?
- Mass Care and Shelter Unit
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit
- Supporting Documents
What is Public Health's role?
Public Health plays a critical role in supporting the community during disasters and emergencies. There are two units that work alongside healthcare facilities and first responders to protect peoples’ health.
This unit:
- Works within the agency to make sure programs and staff are prepared for emergencies.
- Opens shelters when evacuations are in place with the help of the Red Cross, California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and the Sheriff’s Office.
- Opens temporary cooling or warming centers during extremely hot or cold weather.
Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit
This unit:
- Ensures healthcare providers have what they need to care for patients during emergencies.
- Secures supplies and medications during shortages or supply chain issues.
- Coordinates transportation and patient placement when a hospital or skilled nursing facility is under threat of evacuation.
