16preparing for disasters Chapter 16
Preparing for disasters and emergencies
16.1 Introduction: what is disaster preparedness?
Many standard risk reduction terms are used loosely and inconsistently.
‘Disaster preparedness’ is one. Basically, it has three main elements:
1. Forecasting events and issuing warnings.
2. Taking precautionary measures in response to warnings.
3. Improving response by organising and strengthening capacity to deliver
timely and effective rescue, relief and assistance.
Disaster preparedness therefore has two main aims: to help people to avoid
impending disaster threats; and to put plans, resources and mechanisms in
place to ensure that those who are affected receive adequate assistance. It is
assumed that some people and property will be vulnerable to disasters,
despite mitigation measures, and that agencies will have to deal with the
disaster’s impact.
This chapter highlights aspects of preparedness that do not fit easily into the
other thematic sections of this Good Practice Review, with an emphasis on
planning and systems. It is not a comprehensive review of emergency
management practices. The chapter has two parts:
1. An overview of the main components of disaster preparedness.
2. Forecasting and warning systems.
16.2 Components of disaster preparedness
16.2.1 Overview
The main components of disaster preparedness are set out in the following
framework (Table 16.1). Detailed guidance can be found in readily available
expert publications, which have been used in preparing this chapter.1
The framework’s nine general categories should not be seen as a fixed
sequence. In most cases, activities in different categories will be carried out
at the same time. Nevertheless, there is a logical sequence of sorts: planning
must be preceded by understanding of vulnerability and leads on to the
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1. Vulnerability
assessment
Starting point for planning
and