Keeping Safe In An Uncertain World

TRUMBULL — From SARS and sarin gas to dirty bombs, a panel of experts will discuss what to do in the event of biological, chemical, and nuclear hazards during a free program, “Emergency Preparedness: Get the Information You Need to Relieve Your Stress,” 7 pm, September 24, at the Trumbull Marriott

To register, call 384-4444 or out-of-area, 888-357-2396. Online registration is available by visiting www.bridgeporthospital.com and clicking on the “Emergency Preparedness” box at the right of the home page.

“Today’s headlines may cause you to worry about keeping your family safe in an uncertain world,” said Dr Nicholas Dainiak, chairman of medicine at Bridgeport Hospital and an internationally recognized expert on the health effects of radiation. “Knowing what steps you can take to prepare for a disaster or public health emergency, and what other steps are being planned at the local and state level, may help you plan ahead and relieve your stress.”

Joining Dr Dainiak at the program will be Christopher Cannon, director of the Yale New Haven Health System Office of Emergency Preparedness; Dianne Auger, executive director of the American Red Cross Southeastern Fairfield County Chapter; and Dr Jonathan Maisel, Bridgeport Hospital Emergency Department physician.

The panel will discuss the seriousness of biological, chemical, and nuclear threats, how they can be detected, and what health and environmental risks they pose. The experts will also address how to prepare a home and neighborhood for emergencies, including family communication and evacuation plans and gathering disaster supplies.