Medical Emergency Distribution System

Strategic National Stockpile (SNS):

An act of terrorism (or a large-scale natural disaster) affecting the United States may require rapid access to large quantities of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Such quantities may not be readily available unless special stockpiles are created in advance. Therefore, a national inventory of supplies, called the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) has been created as a resource for all states.

What you should know about SNS:

  • The medicine in the SNS is FREE for everyone.
  • The SNS has stockpiled enough medicine to protect people in several large cities at the same time.
  • Rhode Island works with the federal and local planners to ensure that the SNS medicines are delivered to the affected area to protect you and your family in the event of a public health emergency.

How you will get your medicine if the SNS is delivered to your area

  • Local communities are prepared to receive SNS medicine and medical supplies from the state to provide to everyone in the community who needs them.


Narragansett EMA's Role:

The Town of Narragansett has several plans in place for receiving SNS medicine from the Department of Health and distributing it to all members of the community.  

  • In the event of a Medical Emergency Distribution, Narragansett will notify the community of the location and time of opening for its point of dispensing (POD).
  • The Narragansett POD will be open to anyone who chooses to come and is not restricted to residents only.  
  • Any forms or paperwork will be available in advance and it is requested that you have them filled out before entering the POD site.  
  • Special Needs populations that have already registered with the State Registry (Available Here) will have special instructions provided to them.


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General Guidelines for PODs

  • Please remain calm and orderly at all times
  • No pets are allowed in the POD
  • Every effort will be made to keep families together
  • Lines may be long and parking limited so carpooling is encouraged.  

Community Preparation - 4 Steps 

The RI Department of Health has outlined 4 simple steps that all patrons attending a POD should know!

  1. Fill out your forms (or bring them already filled out!)
  2. Have your forms checked by staff
  3. Get your medication or vaccine
  4. Follow the signs to the Exit
It is that simple!  After exiting the POD you should take your medication as directed and listen for further instructions from Narragansett EMA or RI Department of Health.