Emergency Preparedness

Initial focus on improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations through collaborative planning for preparedness and recovery efforts.

The State Health Improvement Plan includes goals to increase community engagement in public health emergency activities and strengthen the capacity to respond to public health emergencies in a timely manner. Emergency preparedness requires participation from government, individuals and communities.

The State of NH is currently monitoring the COVID-19 public health incident. Learn how to get protected and more about the outbreak by clicking here.

Why is EP important?

Public Health Emergency Preparedness is an important aspect of community health. Having the capacity to respond efficiently, effectively, and safely in a public health emergency can save lives and minimize the effects of a public health threat. A public health emergency can result from various hazards including natural disasters such as a hurricane, disease outbreaks such as pandemic flu, and deliberate acts such as aerosolized release of anthrax. In the event of a public health emergency we receive guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Our regional leadership group, called the Regional Preparedness Coordinator Committee, is made up of municipalities, fire departments, first responders, police departments, hospitals, family service organizations, colleges/schools, and County government.

Stephen Belmont Manager of Public Health Emergency Management Services

Stephen joined the Greater Sullivan County Public Health Network in December 2020. He is passionate about preventing and mitigating public health emergencies, and promoting public safety in our communities. Previous to holding this position Stephen worked in EMS for 11 years. Most recently Stephen was the EMS Chief for South Royalton Rescue Squad in South Royalton Vermont. Stephen graduated from Saint Anselm College in 2011 with a degree in Criminal Justice, and is currently an MBA candidate at Southern New Hampshire University. He obtained his paramedic certificate in 2015 from The New England EMS Institute. Stephen can be reached at Stephen.J.Belmont@hitchcock.org.