Table.

Suggestions to Improve Emergency Preparedness of Comprehensive Cancer Control Programs

Structure of Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
• Decentralize comprehensive cancer control planning and functions to allow work to continue in areas not affected by disaster.
• Build strong partnerships inside and outside your local area through communication and collaboration on comprehensive cancer control activities. Arrange reciprocal relationships to have data or functions transferred in case of emergencies.
Emergency Communication and Logistics
• Build redundancy into communication plans (eg, identify multiple contacts for staff and partners, cross train staff).
• Use Internet-based communication, such as Web sites, e-mail, and online spaces during and after a disaster. Direct staff to share information and updates by using these tools.
• Issue adequate equipment to staff, including laptop computers and portable document storage, to use in the event of evacuation.
• Ensure that disaster planning includes the time before and after the disaster. Specify time frames and identify people responsible for all activities.
• Review and update plans at least annually.
• Pilot test plans, if possible.