For Immediate Release:
April 2, 2007

Contact:
Nanci Gonder
Office of Public Information
573-751-6062

State Health Department Stresses “Ready in 3” Preparedness during National Public Health Week

In conjunction with National Public Health Week, April 2-8, 2007, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and local public health agencies across the state are encouraging Missourians to take some time to find out how their family can be better prepared for any future public health emergencies….from bioterrorism and natural disasters to disease outbreaks. This year’s theme is Preparedness and Public Health Threats: Addressing the Unique Needs of the Nation’s Vulnerable Populations. 

“Many Missourians were directly affected by or knew someone whose life was impacted by weather-related events that swept through the state during the past year, said Jane Drummond, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.  “The ice storms, power outages, heat waves, and tornadoes reminded each of us how important it is to be prepared for emergencies.  Families and friends, along with communities, emergency responders, and state agencies pulled together during these difficult times to help each other.”

Through the state health department’s emergency preparedness program called Ready in 3, families, faith-based groups, adult care facilities, child care providers, employers and others in local communities can receive information designed specifically for them on steps they can take to prepare for public health emergencies of all kinds. Missouri residents are urged to go to the department’s web site at www.dhss.mo.gov/Ready_in_3 or call 573-526-4768 for a free copy of the family safety guide and emergency checklist.

“You can play a very important part in getting yourself, your family, and your community ready for a public health emergency,” said Drummond.  “By taking the three basic steps in the Ready in 3 program, you will help alleviate stress during emergencies and help the response agencies do their jobs.” The three steps include developing a family plan, preparing an emergency kit, and preparing to listen for more information during an event.  Missourians are encouraged to visit the Ready in 3 web site at www.dhss.mo.gov/Ready_in_3 during this week to print a family emergency plan and register to receive an item for their family’s emergency kit.   Individuals registering to win the 4-in-1 FM radio, alarm, flashlight and mobile phone charger will be notified no later than May 10, 2007 via mail. 

More information on Ready in 3 can be found at www.dhss.mo.gov/Ready_in_3 or from your local public health agency.