The Public Health Department provides services to respond to medical and health emergencies; prepare for natural disasters—like earthquakes or floods, but also new man-made threats, such as bioterrorism. They provide these services by coordinating countywide medical and health response teams that include ambulances, hospital emergency and trauma centers, as well as fire and law enforcement.

In a major disaster, it might be several days before vital services are restored. 
Santa Cruz is exposed to a wide variety of hazards, both natural and man-made. Earthquakes, fires, severe storms, power outages, and acts of terrorism are just some of the potential emergencies we may encounter.  Imagine that you have no electricity, no gas, no water and no telephone service. Imagine that all the businesses are closed and you are without any kind of emergency services. What will you do until help arrives?  Can you be self-sufficient for 72 hours in the event of an emergency?