Planning and Response for Local Hazards

Planning for Local Hazards

In El Dorado County, we experience many severe weather events and emergencies. From the Caldor Fire in 2021 to extreme heat events in July 2013, we have dealt with and overcome hazardous events and continue to diligently prepare for future incidents. We know we must prepare for all types of emergency events to maintain the safety of our residents and visitors. These local hazards include:

  • Wildfire
  • Extreme Cold and Winter Storms
  • Extreme Heat
  • Utility Failures/Power Outages
  • Flooding
  • Hazardous Materials Incidents
  • Landslide/Avalanche
  • Infectious Disease Outbreaks
  • Transportation Emergencies on Highway 50 and elsewhere

Response to Local Hazards

The Public Health Division of our Health & Human Services Agency partners with hospitals, healthcare providers, and agencies to develop plans to work together during a local public health emergency.

We work with the El Dorado County Office of Emergency Services (OES), which has a Countywide Disaster Plan. During a local disaster or emergency, OES organizes a response and calls on partnering agencies to assist El Dorado County.

During health emergencies, the Office of Emergency Services works to keep residents healthy and safe. Emergency response activities may include:

  • Investigating and controlling communicable disease outbreaks.
  • Managing an epidemic or pandemic.
  • Organizing Point of Dispensing (POD) sites to provide preventive medications and vaccines to residents.
  • Requesting, managing and distributing materials from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS).
  • Performing rapid health needs assessments and give recommendations to decision makers.
  • Performing coordination through the Medical Health Operational Area Coordinator Program (MHOAC).
  • Providing consultation and education to health care providers, emergency responders and the public on issues related to communicable disease, and other health issues.
  • Coordinating with the Office of Emergency Services and the American Red Cross in support of shelter operations for evacuated residents.
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