Climate change, terrorism, accident and natural disasters can cause a health emergency at any time. To be prepared for the effects of these problems, you should take adequate steps to protect your family. Preparation should include a variety of measures to help you and your loved ones survive in circumstances that can adversely affect your health. Here are a few measures that you can take today, so you will be ready when a health emergency arises.

1—Drinking Water Contamination

The vulnerability of the water supply in communities across the nation is one of the top concerns of public health agencies and health emergency managers. You can be part of this exciting field with a safety masters degree. These professionals work hard to implement safety programs in case of contamination of local water supplies. They recommend avoiding drinking water that may be of questionable purity, such as water resources that have been involved in severe flooding events. Boiling water can eliminate any pathogens that may be present. It’s also a good idea to keep water purification tablets or a filtration bottle on hand for those occasions when you have doubts about the purity of your water.

2—Decreased Air Quality

An air quality disaster can occur from wildfires or accidental emissions from manufacturing plants or materials transported across the country. You should always have a battery-powered radio on hand, in case of emergencies that knock power, so you can continue to receive instructions that can save your life. To prevent the dangerous respiratory effects of these problems, you should keep mask and respirators on hand to use as soon as an emergency is announced. Plastic sheeting and heavy-duty tape can be used to seal off windows and doors to prevent entry of contaminants into the home.

3—Infectious Disease Incidents

You can also protect yourself and your family from the unexpected spread of infectious disease by providing appropriate equipment and techniques to reduce transmission. Having masks, gloves and antiseptic agents, such as bleach, on hand can help to reduce the risk of infection. Learning proper sanitation and disinfection techniques, such as avoiding contact with body fluids, covering the nose and mouth during sneezes and frequent hand washing can help prevent transmission of the bacteria, viruses and fungi that cause disease.

No one likes to think about the many ways a health emergency can occur. However, if you have made the right preparations, you can then free your mind of worry and carry on your normal life without fear. You can be assured that you have taken the proper steps to protect yourself and your family from unexpected health threats.