Emergency Preparedness

Public Health Preparedness Program

Mission: To prepare and respond to natural and man-made public health emergencies including, but not limited to:

severe weather conditions
bioterrorism
disease outbreaks
radiological/nuclear hazards

Medical Reserve Corps-Volunteer or Request Volunteers

four panel photo with flood, health worker in protective equipment, lightening, snowstorm

Each month HCHD will bring you information and resources about different hazards and how to be prepared to respond.

May: Water/Swimming Safety

An indoor swimming pool where a lifeguard in a red shirt stands on a platform holding a rescue float, watching over several children and adults playing and wading in the water, with a small slide and seating area visible in the background.

Healthy and Safe Swimming Week is celebrated the week before Memorial Day. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention theme this year is “Splash your Way into Fun, Not Germs."

Enjoy the water safely! While swimming is a great activity, CDC guidelines show that recreational water—from pools to lakes—can pose risks of illness and injury. Learn how to protect yourself and your family by following essential healthy swimming steps at all water venues.

Enjoy natural waters (oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds) safely by preventing illness from germs and avoiding injuries. Check water quality, monitor weather, and use lifeguard-supervised areas. Avoid swallowing water, swim with a buddy, and shower afterward to stay healthy and safe.

Before You Head Out:

Check Water Safety: Ensure the water is open and free from sewage, high chemicals, or debris.
Locate Lifeguards: Swim where lifeguards are present or check local water quality advisories.
Check Weather: Avoid swimming in rain, during high currents, or immediately after storms.
Inform Others: Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

While in the Water:

Don’t Swallow Water: Avoid swallowing water and sand to prevent ingesting germs.
Prevent Injuries: Don’t jump or dive into unfamiliar water. Check for depth and hazards.
Check for Pollution: Avoid water that smells bad, looks discolored, or has pipes draining into it.
Protect Wounds: Avoid swimming with open cuts or infections.
Safety First: Never swim alone or after drinking alcohol.
Kids’ Safety: Ensure kids take regular bathroom breaks to keep the water clean.
Rip Currents: If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore. To learn more on rip currents, visit the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration webpage.