Public Health Hazards

Public health threats that can affect you and your community here in Idaho come in a variety of forms. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes or flooding, can cause power outages, food shortages, and limit your access to healthcare and medications. In the event of a chemical or radiological disaster, you may need to shelter in place or evacuate. You can learn more about specific public health threats below.

BIOTERRORISM

    A bioterrorism attack is the purposeful release of viruses,
    bacteria, or other germs, known as agents, to cause illness
    or death in people, animals, or plants. Often, these biological
    agents can spread through the air, water or food supplies.
    Click on "Resources" to learn more about specific biological
    agents.

CHEMICAL

    A chemical emergency is the intentional or unintentional
    release of a hazardous material into the environment that
    has the potential to harm people's health. Chemical
    emergencies may require you to shelter in place or evacuate
    depending on the hazardous material involved. If you come
    in contact with an unknown substance, emergency
    coordinators and public health officials in your area will let
    you know if you need to decontaminate by removing your
    clothing and washing affected areas. Click on "Resources"
    to learn more about chemical emergencies.

RADIOLOGICAL/NUCLEAR

    Radiation emergencies may be caused by the intentional or
    unintentional release of radioactive material. The scope,
    magnitude, and distance of the radiation emergency will
    determine the type of action you take. In the event of a
    radiation emergency, your local and state government
    will inform you of the appropriate response through a variety
    of media outlets including tv and radio. Click on "Resources"
    to learn more about radiation emergencies.

NATURAL DISASTERS

    Idaho is no stranger to natural disasters and inclement
    weather. Not only can earthquakes, floods, and harsh
    winter weather cause structural damage, but they can
    also pose risks to health. By getting an emergency
    preparedness kit, making a plan and staying informed you
    can be better prepared when mother nature strikes.
    Click on "Resources" to tearn more about specific natural
    disasters that occur in Idaho.