EMC183 Disaster Worker Stress 2/2
To:   Emergency Communications Units - Information Bulletin
To:   Emergency Management Agencies via Internet and Radio
By:   Auxiliary Communications Service (ACS) of the
      California Governor's Office of Emergency Services  

EMC   Disaster Worker Stress 2/2    For release 5/10/99

What can I do to minimize stress during a disaster operation?

 - Make your living accommodations personal and comfortable.  When
packing for the disaster, take a few mementos from home to help
you keep in touch psychologically.

 - Get regular exercise consistent with your physical condition and
enjoy some activity away from the disaster scene. Do things that
help you relax at home such as listening to music, running,
reading a good book, or taking a hot bath.

 - Get enough sleep and try to eat regular meals even if you're not
hungry. Try to avoid foods high in sugar, fat and sodium, such as
donuts and fast foods. Take a good vitamin and mineral supplement
to be sure your body is getting the nutrients it needs.

 - Avoid excessive use of alcohol and coffee. Caffeine is a
stimulant and should also be used in moderation as it affects the
nervous system, making you nervous and edgy.

 - Although you need time alone on long disaster operations, you
should also spend time with co-workers.  Both experienced and
new disaster workers should spend respite time, sometimes with
co-workers, away from the disaster scene. Talking about normal
things (home, friends, family, hobbies) other than the disaster
is a healthy change of pace.

 - You will probably find others who enjoy similar activities and
are interested in group social activities (movie, dinner,
volleyball, picnic).

 - Humor helps ease the tension. However, use it carefully as
victims or co-workers can take things personally, resulting in
hurt feelings if they are the brunt of "disaster humor."

 - When on the job, it is important to take breaks during the day,
especially if you find yourself making mistakes or unable to
concentrate." (series end, end of quotation.)

>From the November '95 Huntington Beach CERT Newsletter, page 4.
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