From the NJTI Newsletter - Pandemic: Coming to a PSAP Near You
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Local, state, and national media has blasted our televisions and radios about how the 2014 flu season is not discriminating only against the elderly this year. It is attacking our young, middle-aged, and elderly. Thirty-five states have reported widespread influenza and 20 have reported high levels of influenza-like illness. With the threats of a pandemic coming to your PSAP, the question of the day is "Are you ready"?
- Does your PSAP have a Pandemic Plan?
- Has staff been trained and educated on implementing the Plan?
- Can you identify existing tools and resources to support the PSAP during a pandemic?
- Are 9-1-1 personnel aware of the overall emergency action plan?
- Have you addressed infection control training for 9-1-1 personnel?
- Have you addressed how you will staff different positions based on skill level needs?
If not, it's not too late. Mitigation is key and if it's predictable, it's preventable. Preparing for Pandemic Influenza: Recommendations for Protocol Development for 9-1-1 Personnel and Public Safety Answering Points, by the U.S. Department of Transportation can prepare your PSAP and your personnel. The document provides a framework for pandemic influenza planning and delivery of emergency care and 9-1-1 services during an influenza pandemic.
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