Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department To Conduct Door-To-Door Surveys On Friday And Saturday

  • Thursday, May 14, 2015

The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department will be conducting door-to-door surveys on Friday and Saturday. The survey offers public health officials a chance to practice a survey methodology known as Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER).  Officials said, "You may see public health teams in your neighborhood and we might knock on your door." 

This project is a joint effort between Hamilton County Emergency Services and the Health Department to collect information regarding residents’ needs during an emergency evacuation.  In addition, emergency preparedness educational materials will be distributed.

Health Department staff and volunteers from the Health Department’s Medical Reserve Corps will be approaching residents throughout Hamilton County about participating in the survey.  Using the CASPER method, households surveyed are randomly selected and your home may one of them. The survey will be asking about personal preparedness, residents’ plans in the event of an evacuation, and whether residents would need special help during that evacuation.

Tony Reavley, director of Hamilton County Emergency Services, said, “We appreciate the partnership with the Health Department and their efforts in compiling this data.  The CASPER process will provide vital information to us as we plan and prepare for the safety of our community.  This effort will allow us to identify areas where particular needs or special circumstances exist and then determine the proper procedures and resources needed to address them. Thank you for your assistance in this survey.”

"An important part of preparedness and response is collecting this type of information to modify and improve existing emergency plans.  The Health Department is continually working with community partners to evaluate and improve our emergency plans, and we appreciate the residents of Hamilton County assisting us in this endeavor,” said Bev Fulbright, epidemiology department manager at the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department.

The severe weather events we’ve had emphasize the need for people to plan for emergencies. “It’s something we don’t generally think about, but being prepared for an emergency is everyone’s responsibility,” said Sabrina Novak, emergency response coordinator at the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department. “Being prepared is not just about having food and water. Think about your children’s needs, pets, medications, and develop a plan that will help you and your family get through the first hours or even days of an emergency.” 

Every individual and family should consider the following:

·       Would you utilize a shelter?

·       Do you have a communication plan or meeting place for loved ones?

·       Does anyone in the household require special help, medical equipment, medication, etc.?

·       Do you have a plan for your pet(s)?

Visit www.hamiltonready.org for more information that can help people determine how to address many of these concerns in the event of an emergency. “We look forward to working with all of Hamilton County to promote the message of emergency preparedness,” said Ms. Novak.

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