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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Emergency Preparedness and Response

FL Dept. of Health in St. Lucie County

Emergencies happen every day -- often when you least expect it. Are you prepared? Do you have a Family Emergency Plan? Get a Kit...Make A Plan...Be Informed

Disaster typically gives little warning and can leave confusion and devastation in its wake. Whether it is a man-made or natural disaster, the results can be frightening for all residents of St. Lucie County.

St. Lucie County Health Department takes pride in its strong involvement in the Region Five Domestic Security Task Force. The emphasis has shifted to an all hazards approach. With the cooperation of our law enforcement and fire service partners, we have been making steady progress addressing hazardous events which may impact the county. Many of our plans were put to the test during the storms of September 2004, offering the opportunity of a very wet 'dry run' for many of our plans and procedures.

With the ending of universal smallpox vaccinations in 1972, the "herd immunity" which protected the country from serious outbreaks was gradually lost, placing the community at risk of biological attack. The Department took a leading role in Vaccinate Florida, the state response to the possible threat of smallpox as a terrorist weapon. A nucleus of responders was created by vaccinating certain members of the health department from various disciplines. Vaccinations were then offered to law enforcement and fire department personnel. Because of the complexity of smallpox vaccinations, these procedures are being used as the benchmark for all mass vaccination planning.

Florida is a prime target for both natural and man-made disasters. Whether it comes in the form of inclement weather, wildfire, anthrax scare or nuclear accident, Florida residents must be prepared. The St. Lucie County Health Department believes in providing the residents of our county with informative and up-to-date information to create your own Family Disaster Plan.

The Family Preparedness Guide was created by the State of Florida through the Department of Health. It is a great tool that include:

  • A fill-in Family Plan for Disasters and Emergencies
  • Steps for making a Disaster Supply Kit
  • Facts about natural and man-made threats.

The Family Preparedness Guide is available.