This presentation highlights the collaborative efforts of the Washington State Department of Health’s Executive Office of Resiliency and Health Security (ORHS), Office of Emergency Medical Logistics, and Environmental Public Health, Indoor Air Quality division, leading up to the 2023 Wildfire Season and how that project has shaped our work today. Local efforts were crucial in ensuring vulnerable populations received timely support, particularly those in remote or underserved areas. The project involved selecting and distributing air cleaners equitably across the state, with logistical support from the Office of Emergency Medical Logistics. Working with local and tribal partners ensured effective outreach and resource delivery.
The presentation also emphasizes the importance of prepositioning resources to streamline response efforts and prevent supply chain disruptions during crises. This proactive approach minimized delays and shortages, ensuring timely access to resources.The project’s impact was significant, improving health outcomes for vulnerable communities and strengthening resilience in the face of environmental challenges. This initiative serves as a model for future preparedness, showcasing the power of strategic partnerships, community engagement, and proactive planning to address public health and environmental risks.
What Will the Audience Learn:
Audience Takeaways:
Collaboration is Key: Attendees will understand how partnerships between state agencies, local jurisdictions, and tribal partners ensure that resources reach vulnerable populations quickly and equitably during crises. Proactive Preparedness: The presentation will emphasize the importance of prepositioning resources, like portable air cleaners, to streamline responses and prevent delays during emergencies. Equity in Resource Distribution: The session will showcase how equitable distribution ensures underserved communities receive the support they need, especially in times of environmental crises. Real-World Impact: The presentation will demonstrate how strategic, community-driven efforts can effectively mitigate health risks and support vulnerable populations during disaster events. The session offers insights into successful disaster preparedness and response strategies.
Course Level: Intermediate
About the Presenters
Dean Vailencour was born and raised here in Washington State. Shortly after graduating high school, he joined the Army as Military Police and served 8 years. After the Army, he worked for a retail home improvement company for 15 years, then deciding he needed a career change, he started with Washington State Department of Enterprise Services Surplus Operations just before COVID in November 2019. During COVID, Surplus Operations stood up a 198,500 sqft warehouse for the state Health Department (DOH), which he ran the receiving, Inventory Management and distribution for. While working with DOH to manage what is now called the Medical Logistics Center, in January of 2022, the warehouse transitioned to DOH operating the facility, and he was offered a position with DOH to continue the operation at the Medical Logistics Center (MLC). He currently manages the daily operations of the facility, coordinating with other divisions within DOH for the receiving, storage and distribution of their items and two other state agencies.