Assessing community disaster response capabilities in a small midwestern city

The purpose of this project was to assess the disaster response capabilities of a small Midwestern city. This descriptive study assessed the community's response procedures and capabilities in case of a disaster. Initial assessment of geographic and physical/environmental factors as well as key informant interviews from a local hospital, clinic, and health department were obtained. Policies and procedures were reviewed from each of the organizations. Local published information as well as informal interviews of the community members were obtained. Findings revealed the community had concerns over disaster preparedness. The results will be shared for the five major outcomes that focused on: 1). Evaluate current policies and procedures for emergency preparedness. 2). Identify perceived roles and collaborative responsibilities for the various community agencies and organizations within this community; 3). Enhance awareness and improve communication between and among the key leaders and the community; 4). Provide a written and oral report to the agency for future disaster planning efforts, and 5). Discuss methods for facilitating community participation for improving services.