Washington Park East Neighborhood Association

PREPARATIONS FOR NATURAL OR OTHER DISASTERS: - November 2001

Nov 24, 2001

PREPARATIONS FOR NATURAL OR OTHER DISASTERS: We are fortunate to have a very prepared and experienced Office of Emergency Preparedness for the City and County of Denver. The office has a comprehensive plan to coordinate the different city departments and other community support services such as the American Red Cross, Denver Health and Denver Public Schools to respond to an emergency. The City and County of Denver?’s mission is to provide "a comprehensive approach to manage an all hazard mission through mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery for saving lives and protecting property." The plan has identified disaster conditions including fires, severe weather, transportation accidents, hazardous material incidents, civil disturbance, terrorism, or enemy attack. In recent weeks, there have been several articles in the newspaper (e.g. Rocky Mountain News, 10/13/01) and on TV describing the crisis preparations of our city departments and recent emergency practice drills As residents we can support the emergency preparedness by keeping updated on common emergency procedures. The American Red Cross Mile High Chapter (303/722-7474) is an excellent information resource. They have brochures on making a Family Disaster Plan and Supplies Kit. The City and County of Denver website (www.denvergov.com/oem) has information on emergency preparedness. In January, we hope to have Mike Michalek from the Office of Emergency Preparedness at our WPENA meeting to speak to us and answers questions on emergency preparedness. (Thanks to Cindy Johnstone for this article.)