Public health emergencies can take many forms: disease epidemics or pandemics, large-scale incidents of food or water contamination, extended periods without adequate water and sewer services, harmful exposure to chemical, radiological or biological agents, and large-scale infestations of disease carrying insects or rodents. Public health emergencies may also occur secondary to another emergency, such as a flood, tornado, or hazardous material incident.
Perhaps the greatest emerging public health hazard would be the intentional release of a radiological, chemical or biological agent. Such a release would most likely be an act of sabotage aimed at the government or a specific organization or segment of the population. Fortunately, to date, Macomb County has not yet experienced a release aimed at mass destruction.
In the event of a public health emergency, the health department may:
Issue health advisories, alerts and guidelines.
Coordinate the dispensing of medications or vaccines.
Macomb County residents may get instructions about current or ongoing emergencies at:
Local media outlets (radio, cable, television, newspapers)
Macomb County Health Department Hotline: (586) 466-7923
Local Government / Municipal Offices (please use non-emergency phone numbers)
Become familiar with your community’s emergency warning systems.
NOAA Weather Radios are the best way to receive warnings and updates from the National Weather Service. The radios are sold in many stores and on the Internet. The National Weather Service recommends buying a radio with a battery backup (in case the power goes off) and a tone-alert feature that automatically sounds when a weather watch or warning is issued.
Emergency Numbers:
Have an emergency not listed? Click here
Planning for emergencies involves:
Use the links on the left and below to learn more and get prepared.
| Macomb County Hazard Mitigation Plan | Macomb County Local Emergency Planning Committee |
The Macomb County Health Department Emergency Preparedness Program is funded through a grant from the Michigan Department of Community Health / Office of Public Health Preparedness, which in turn is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Program Announcement AA154 - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement Budget Period 8.
Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice. Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.