This course will examine the issues involved with the creation and the implementation of an emergency plan. Topics covered will include the various characteristics of an emergency, common features of emergency plans, the five phases of an emergency response, notification procedures, and the value of test exercises. The role of public health agencies will be reviewed in detail, including the establishment of an emergency site design, the provision of potable water and food, the designation of adequate shelter sites, methods to control waste, means for the population to maintain personal hygiene, pest control and disease surveillance. Case studies will be used to illustrate the importance of sound and comprehensive emergency planning.