Helping Hands

Description
Students research the types of diseases and health crises that frequently arise in the wake of a natural disaster, with special focus on disasters in the United States that cause flooding. Then, they explore ways in which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other emergency agencies, work to mitigate the health dangers when a disaster occurs.

Relevant Standards
This activity fulfills science and health education standards [PDF - 425 KB].

Objectives
Students will:

• Research and describe health issues that threaten a community after a natural disaster that causes flooding strikes
• Research and describe how the CDC and other agencies respond to mitigate the danger of disease following a natural disaster

BAM! Body and Mind Resources:

• The Buzz on Scuzz — Teaches the best hand washing techniques and why it's so important to wash your hands.
• Tsunami — Students learn what tsunamis are, how they can affect the health of people directly in their path, and general emergency preparedness information.