INTRODUCTION:
We must educate ourselves and
our family members to be prepared and understand what to do in the event of a
disaster. Disaster management is not just limited to floods but also
earthquakes, heavy rains, typhoons, fires and other calamities that can harm lives
and property. In case of a disaster, the main thing you can do is to stay calm.
There are precautions that can be taken to stay safe during an emergency. It
might be a good idea to make pre arrangements. The officials can't be expected
to prevent all incidents but they should be prepared to call in the resources
and man power to help those affected by an event, once it has occurred. Help
one another in the times of need. There's always someone out there, who will
lend a helping hand when things get tough. The good news is that most of these
challenges are preventable. Here are some tips to help you manage.
WHAT
IS DISASTER?:
A disaster is an event which is
not controlled or predictable. It can be a natural event such as cyclone,
drought, flood, earthquake, hurricane, wild fire, heat wave etc. A disaster is
when a significant event causes damage or injury to people, property, animals
or environment. In addition to being extremely dangerous, disasters also cause
many people serious injuries and even death. Disasters also can harm the
economy and well being of individuals and communities. However, not all natural
disasters are so violent and dramatic but the threat of man made disasters is
growing.
DISASTER
MANAGEMENT:
Disaster management is the organized
response and recovery process that is used to reduce loss, damage and
re-establishment of essential services following a natural disaster, other
major disruption or some high profile event. It is a process of protecting
human life, property and environment from the damaging effects of natural as
well as man made disasters. The most disaster management is done by a public
information officer (PIO) who directs communications between emergency response
officials and public, who helps co-ordinate public assistance and relief
activities and strives to keep affected communities informed about the status
of their homes, businesses, transportation networks and other community assets.
ADVERSE
EFFECTS / ATROCITIES OF DISASTERS:
A disaster is a major social /
economic shock that can have widespread consequences. Natural disasters
including weather events, climate changes and geologic disasters often result
in considerable loss of human life, damage to property and physical infra-structure
such as buildings, roads and bridges. Hurricane Irma has left the trail of
destruction across Florida. The National Weather Service is now monitoring the
hurricane Jose. Preparing for these storms can help you alert for your home,
work place and family for a disaster.
HOW
TO COPE WITH EMERGENCY?:
In the event of a disaster, it
is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your family. Prepare
emergency supplies, have a safe place to go and be ready for emergency
circumstances. Disaster preparedness is a preventive measure that helps an
individual or a community in case of natural disaster or similar calamities.
When disaster strikes, there are things you can do to keep yourself and your
loved ones safe. Below are some great tips for living through a disaster as
well as information about how to prepare for the worst if it happens -
including what to do if you do experience an earthquake or if your home is
affected by flood or heavy rain. Flood control systems have proven effective.
During the rainy season, flood management measures should be put in place.
During heavy rainfall, avoid
all outdoor activities such as going to work or school. If your work place is
located in a flood prone area, consider taking alternative work until the
situation improves. If a natural disaster occurs during your rainy season, make
sure to stay hydrated and safe by drinking plenty of water and using sunscreen
when possible. Don’t forget to take extra precautions if you have a fever.
During this time, it may be good to check on your family and stay safe. Floods
can be an impending threat for many people. Flood management measures are
designed to protect lives and property by preventing loss of life, injury and
damage to property as well as mitigating the economic loss that results from
it. If you live in an earthquake prone area, take precautions by staying out doors
during an earthquake, if the building starts to shake. It's important to know
that there are a couple of ways you can prepare for any crisis. One is to be
prepared to withstand everything, no matter how bad it seems. The other way is
to prepare in advance so that every possible scenario is better than the
previous one.
If you are planning to leave
your house during the rainy season, be sure to make arrangements for any
essential household items and supplies. Keep in mind that some electronic items
like computers and televisions, may not function properly when placed close to
flowing water. The best way to stock up on all your supplies is to secure a
personal disaster supply kit. This kit should be in your home and ready for use
before the rainy season begins. There are many different types of personal kits
available, so go with what’s right for you and your family. Always know where
your emergency kit is and try to keep it somewhere nearby. Make sure to put
candles, wind up radio and extra batteries in there, so that you’re ready if
power goes out.
During a rain, flood or cyclone
etc., animals and pets should be kept indoors. Do not let them loose, as they
are susceptible to steals and drownings. For example, don’t let your dog
outside during this time period, since there is the possibility of an over flowing
drain pipe or water main breaking and creating large amounts of rushing water.
Instead have them stay indoors with you. While the rain and flood are not as
serious as cyclone, animals have to be care during such time period. The most
important thing is to protect your pets from getting dehydrated. Having said
so; it’s important to ensure all moisture levels happen naturally, through food
and drink as well as fresh air.
