Preparing Social Services and Public Services Professionals for Meaningful Roles in Disaster Services

ABSTRACT

This manuscript reviews the importance of disaster preparedness for the social services and public services professional. The value in separating fact from fiction in regard to probabilities for biological, chemical, and nuclear terrorism is highlighted. The various phases of disaster preparedness are elucidated along with the components of the effective all-hazards plan. Consideration of the psychological impact of disasters is presented in conjunction with the role of the mental health worker in the amelioration of outcomes. The role of electronic technology in disaster preparedness is elaborated, and useful websites are cited to facilitate disaster planning.

KEYWORDS:

• Disaster preparedness
• psychological impact of disasters
• use of electronic technology
• social services and public services