Public health staff going door-to-door this week

Oakland County residents may get a knock on the door Sept. 10, 11, and 12 from Oakland County Health Division (OCHD) staff to conduct Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER) surveys. OCHD staff will team up with the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to visit select residents to assess whether they have taken basic precautions to prepare for emergencies such as stockpiling supplies of food, water and medications; making plans for contacting relatives; and planning for their pet's needs. The CASPER survey enables public health practitioners and emergency management officials to determine the health status and basic needs of the affected community. These surveys often are used during and after a disaster but can also be used to collect a baseline of information before an event occurs. "The CASPER survey is a tool we can use in the event of an emergency to rapidly assess and address community needs," said Kathy Forzley, OCHD manager/health officer. "Oakland County Health Division is the only local health department in Michigan participating in this unique opportunity, and there is no better time than during National Emergency Preparedness Month." Teams will be clearly identified by fluorescent yellow vests and identification badges, and will be in neighborhoods between 3 and 8 p.m. Residents in targeted neighborhoods were selected using census information. OCHD appreciates residents' help in making the public aware of this preparedness exercise to improve the emergency response system. For additional information, visit oakgov.com/health. Published: Mon, Sep 10, 2012