Emergency Preparedness and Response 

The Public Health Preparedness program writes and reviews many public health plans to protect all people in DeSoto County and may help assist many different community healthcare organizations by reviewing their comprehensive emergency management plans. Public Health Preparedness (PHP) staff provide many trainings and exercises throughout the year for staff members to ensure adequate response for any man-made or natural disaster hazards that may affect DeSoto County.

In addition, staff members in this program are available to speak to employees of local businesses, civic organizations, and other agencies about the following topics:

• Emergency and hurricane preparedness
• Incident Command System (ICS)
• Continuity of operations
• Project public health ready
• Special needs shelters

Response to Natural Disasters and Emergencies 

The DeSoto County Health Department staff serve as the Emergency Support Function 8 Lead at the DeSoto County Emergency Operations Center. During disasters, these staff members ensure adequate healthcare services are available, appropriate shelters for vulnerable populations are opened, and monitor the safety of the county's food and water supply. The health department works closely with hospitals, medical providers, first responders (emergency medical services, fire/rescue, emergency management, law enforcement) and other community partners to ensure coordination of health and medical response within DeSoto County.

Public health services during emergencies and disasters include:

• Disease control
• Safety of food and water
• Radiological and biological coordination
• Providing public health information
• Assisting in the coordination of mass casualty treatment in partnership with EMS and hospitals

Location & Contact Information 

Baldwin Office – Main Location
34 South Baldwin Avenue
Arcadia, FL 34266

The PHP office is open
Monday – Friday
8 AM – 4:30 PM

For more information call
863-990-4196