Featured Article -- March 2008

Branding Resources for Emergency Preparedness

Local health departments, unlike police, fire and ambulance services, historically have not had a “logo” that was recognized by the general public. Although some local health departments have their own logos, many do not.  Often, public health personnel are almost invisible in the neighborhoods and communities where they work. Being able to recognize and contact public health professionals to provide information to prevent or assist in a terrorist situation is important for the public.

Using a visual symbol like a logo helps build public awareness.  It lets everyone who sees health department personnel or uses health department facilities, vehicles or publications know that the health department is on the job.  It allows the public to get information to the appropriate health officials during times of crisis.

The National Association of City and County Health Officials (NACCHO) has developed a logo, accompanied by the carefully chosen words, “Prevent. Promote. Protect”. This logo can be used by governmental health departments to provide public recognition of public health efforts and activities. This logo will hopefully become as universally recognized and understood as those for police and fire departments.

Use of the logo is entirely voluntary.  It can be used alone or it can be used in conjunction with the existing logo of a department. NACCHO has established guidelines for using the new logo because the uniformity of look, feel and usage of the symbol is important in making it a universally recognized symbol.

Using the logo frequently and prominently helps show pride in the people and power of public health who are at work every day in every community.  It is time for local health departments to be visible and understood by all. Look for the logo and see what public health is doing for you!

The threat level in the airline sector is HIGH or Orange. See www.dhs.gov for details.

An online Suspicious Activity Report Form (SAR) will be available soon.