Topics like these present significant challenges and are uncomfortable to consider and discuss. However, preparation and consideration of these topics can ease anxiety, panic, and time required to address challenges when an emergency presents itself. Making a plan will triage your roles and responsibilities so that your response will be coordinated, direct, and efficient.
In times of crisis, those in need often rely on regional resources, assets, and mobilization to aid in both immediate response and recovery during an emergency. For an emergency response to be effective, pre-planned, coordinated, interdisciplinary, and redundant protocols need to be enacted quickly and efficiently. Small scale emergencies are often managed locally either within a hospital system or by local governmental agencies, like an emergency management office. As resources are depleted or the scale of the emergency dictates, additional local, regional, and national agencies can be called upon.
Volunteerism is a vital asset in an emergency response. Anyone interested in becoming involved should explore volunteer options in their community. Volunteerism is declining nationwide. Volunteers are relied upon to act as first responders, a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand to rebuild, and so much more. One of many volunteer opportunities in Maine, “Maine Responds (a partnership that integrates local, regional, and statewide volunteer resources to assist our public health and healthcare systems) coordinates verified, pre-credentialed public health, healthcare and emergency response volunteers into a single database that can coordinate the need for volunteers across county, regional, and state lines if needed.” The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster is an organization which provides additional volunteer opportunities in a variety of capacities. One agency near and dear to my heart is HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response. If you feel called to volunteer take a moment and find an organization with a cause that aligns with your passion, and encourage others to do the same.
An emergency response does not just happen. It takes preparation, coordination, execution, review, and revision. This dynamic approach to emergency preparedness is one that should be considered by everyone because “Disasters Don’t Wait”. <>
Additional resources:
York County Emergency Management Agency
FEMA – individuals and communities
UNE Emergency Preparedness & Response
UNE's President Herbert Addresses Students Amidst the COVID Pandemic As Part of the UNE Onward Preparedness Plan