The role of environmental health practitioners in a public health emergency.

in responding to emergency events. The assessment of shelters for the 2005 hurri­ cane evacuees is a great example of the use of these skills. Many of the environmental health issues that existed in the shelters were the same as those that practitioners assess during their regular duties. These is­ sues include safe food preparation, safe and adequate supply of water, infection control/ handwashing, solid waste disposal, vector control, general safety, sewage disposal, and adequate sanitation facilities. Ensuring that these issues are addressed and that systems are functioning properly is essential for pro­ tecting the health and safety of shelter oc­ cupants and visitors.