PPHR was developed by and for local health departments to enhance the ability of a county health department to protect the public's health before, during, and after an emergency or disaster. Project Ready sets national criteria for public health readiness under three main goals:

•  All-Hazards Preparedness Planning

•  Workforce Capacity Development

•  Quality Improvement through Exercises and Real Event Response

The health department disaster preparedness and planning program is a three county program to develop plans and activities that increase Walton, Holmes, and Washington County's ability to prepare, respond and mitigate man-made or natural disasters. This program collaborates with local Emergency management staff and the Regional DOH staff to meet planning, training and exercise needs of health care workers in both the public and private sectors.
 

• Family Preparedness
  Learn how to prepare yourself and family for emergencies and disasters.
   
• Special Needs Shelter-SpNS
  The Department of Health provides limited support at Special Needs Shelters open before, during, and after a hurricane.

  Medical Reserve Corps
  Learn more about the Okaloosa Walton Medical Reserve Corps and about joining the volunteer agency
       To learn more: www.medicalreservecorps.gov
       To volunteer: www.servfl.com

   

• Bioterrorism and Manmade Disasters
  For information about biological, chemical, nuclear, radiological and other manmade disasters visit

 bt.cdc.gov
 

• Natural Disasters
  For additional information about hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires, and other natural disasters, visit
   FEMA.gov
   After the Storm booklet
   
• Pandemic Flu
  Learn what the pandemic flu is and how it can affect you.