A flood is a disaster during which usually dry land is submerged underwater, leading to a major issue for agriculture, infrastructure, and public health. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, a preparedness plan for such threats is divided into multiple steps that meet a national preparedness goal (Department of Homeland Security 2012). The system functions on several levels, starting with federal planning and narrowing to local government involvement. A flood is a disaster that falls under an incident in need of mass evacuation.
Some key considerations of the preparedness plan include knowing the amount of time necessary to evacuate an area, the limitations of weather forecasting, and the number of the special needs’ population in the area. It is also vital to know whether the disaster has occurred with or without warning and the extent of the damage to infrastructure that may affect shelter and transportation. Next, evacuation operations are usually performed by state and local authorities, but in specific crises, federal intervention is possible (Department of Homeland Security 2012). The federal authorities responding will need assistance from ESFs (Emergency Support Functions). Actions such as ESF 3 Public Works being in charge of handling debris and ESF 8 would provide information on the medical needs of the victims.
Public health and medical support will be provided in a series of steps, with several authorities leading the assistance. ESF 8 will be managing points where medical support can be administered as well as coordinating the evacuation of patients from hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, and those that have medical problems at the evacuation centers (Department of Homeland Security 2012). Part of the task will require prioritizing victims according to issues and needs of medical care. Lastly, the group will assist with veterinary issues and monitor any possible animal-related illnesses during the evacuation.
Reference
Plan and Prepare for Disasters. (2012). Department of Homeland Security. Web.