The Kaua’i District Health Office (KDHO) will conduct a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER) survey from June 3-7, 2024. The survey aims to evaluate household emergency preparedness and evacuation plans, as well as gauge awareness and concerns regarding climate change and communicable diseases.
“The responses will build upon prior CASPER surveys to assess household emergency preparedness and evacuation plans, as well as help us to understand household awareness and concerns regarding climate change and communicable diseases,” said KDHO Deputy District Health Officer Lauren Guest. “The information we learn enables KDHO and the county to better meet our community’s needs before, during, and after a disaster. In addition, CASPER surveys are a valuable training opportunity for our staff.”
Survey teams will visit 30 randomly selected census blocks, with seven houses within each block systematically chosen for participation. This results in a total of 210 attempted household-level surveys. The teams consist of Department of Health (DOH) staff supported by the Kauaʻi Medical Reserve Corps and the American Red Cross.
The survey is expected to take about 10 minutes per household. Participants will be asked about their emergency and evacuation plans, concerns regarding climate change and communicable diseases, and general questions about life on Kaua‘i. All responses will remain confidential; no names or addresses will be collected. Team members will wear vests identifying them as part of the DOH survey team and carry identification cards. Households may opt to complete the survey over the phone if preferred.
The CASPER survey methodology was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to quickly assess community health and resource needs following a disaster. This marks the seventh CASPER survey conducted by the Department of Health on Kauaʻi.
For previous CASPER survey reports, visit: https://health.hawaii.gov/kauai/Casper/