AbangchiethkalausiNg
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Oct 25, 2025
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About This Presentation
This presentation looks back at the history of global disasters. it gives the participants a chance to reexperience their own encounters with disasters. participants see their role disaster preparedness and impact mitigation.
Size: 3.83 MB
Language: en
Added: Oct 25, 2025
Slides: 54 pages
Slide Content
Disaster Preparedness Training for health care service providers Prepared by Chrisphen j. simbiri
Your experience
Recent history of disasters
1931 Y angtze River flood The floods covered tens of thousands of square miles, Destroyed several acres of rice fields. Several cities cities, including Nanjing and Wuhan were submerged M ore than 40 million people were displaced. 3.7 million people lost their lives ( https://www.britannica.com/science/Yangtze-River-floods)
August 7 th 1998 US Embassies Bomb attack Al-Qaeda operatives carried out nearly simultaneous bombings at the U.S. embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam killing 224 people, (212 in Nairobi and 11 in Dar es Salaam), and wounded more than 5,000. Kenyan Red Cross volunteers arrived at the disaster site five minutes after the explosion and worked in shifts of 30 persons throughout the response period. A 24-hour first aid center was established immediately after the blast, with 350 persons treated the first day and 100 per day thereafter. The Israeli military rescue team, comprising about 170 search and rescue experts, arrived on August 8 th and completed their search operations on 12 th w hen the last survivor was pulled out of the wreckage. UNICEF, WFP and several nongovernmental organizations provided medical and home and community-based assistance to survivors and families. Local hospitals in Kenya were overwhelmed by the influx of patients following the bombing .
Haiti Earthquake (2010) On January 12, 2010, an earthquake measuring 7.0 on richter scale hit Haiti about 24 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince. The earthquake was followed by aftershocks that registered magnitudes of 5.9 and 5.5. Another aftershock of magnitude 5.9 struck on January 20 th 2010. About 200,000–300,000 people died. Hundreds of thousands were displaced. Ref: https://www.britannica.com/event/2010-Haiti-earthquake
Covid 19 The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic occasioned a global health crisis due to unprecedented morbidity and mortality and its social-economic impact on countries. Over 767 million infections and close to 6.9 million deaths were reported worldwide (WHO, 2023) The World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 12, 2020, due to its high infectious rate with tremendous transmission dynamics (Cucinotta & Vanelli, 2020). In Kenya, as of 7th June 2023, there were 343,312 confirmed Coronavirus cases and 5,688 deaths (MOH, 2021). Businesses were closed, jobs lost, Movement restricted
A multisector task force, the National Emergency Response Committee (NERC) comprising of health, security, education, transport, finance, and trade sectors was constituted with responsibility for the overall coordination of the COVID-19 response. NERC identified health facilities, public and private laboratories and isolation centers and developed guidelines for case management, infection prevention and control and surveillance ( Nanyingi , 2020). Adhering to COVID-19 basic infection prevention guidelines as per WHO protocols are the cornerstones of reducing the transmission. Ref: The 7th Covid-19 knowledge, attitude, and practice survey report ,2023
2024 FLOODING DISASTER IN KENYA More than 306,520 (61,304 families) were affected by heavy rains and floods between 1 March and 18 June 2024 An estimated 315 people died, 188 injured, and 38 missing, while more than 293,200 people (58,641 families) were displaced The UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) released US$3 million to support lifesaving and life-sustaining assistance to 190,000 people in 10 counties in Kenya. Ref: The mission of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) June 2024 315 Deaths 306,522 People affected 293,205 People displaced 43 Counties affected 79 Cholera cases 170,440 People reached with lifesaving assistance
Introduction to Disaster Preparedness
Disaster preparedness refers to measures taken to prepare for and reduce the effects of disasters. That is, to predict and—where possible—prevent them, mitigate their impact on vulnerable populations, and respond to and effectively cope with their consequences. Disaster preparedness is a continuous and integrated process resulting from a wide range of activities and resources rather than from a distinct sectoral activity by itself. It requires the contributions of many different areas—ranging from training and logistics, to health care to institutional development .
Objectives of Disaster Preparedness Increasing the efficiency, effectiveness and impact of disaster emergency response mechanisms at the community and national level, this includes The development and regular testing of warning systems (linked to forecasting systems) and plans for evacuation or other measures to be taken during a disaster alert period to minimize potential loss of life and physical damage Educating and training of officials and the population at risk the Training of first-aid and emergency response teams Establishment of emergency response policies, standards, organizational arrangements and operational plans to be followed during and after a disaster
Objectives cont. Strengthening community-based disaster preparedness through National programs for the community or through direct support of the community's own activity, E ducating, preparing and supporting local populations and communities in their everyday efforts to reduce risks and prepare their own local response mechanisms to address disaster emergency situations Developing activities that are useful for both addressing everyday risks that communities face and for responding to disaster situations— health, first aid and other social welfare intervention that have components useful for disaster reduction and response
Key terms in disaster preparedness Disaster Hazards Vulnerability Structural/physical vulnerability Human vulnerability Human capacities
Disaster A disaster is an extreme disruption of the functioning of a society that causes widespread human, material, or environmental losses that exceed the ability of the affected society to cope using only its own resources. Events such as earthquakes, floods, and cyclones, by themselves, are not considered disasters. Rather, they become disasters when they adversely and seriously affect human life, livelihoods and property. disaster preparedness, therefore, seeks to prepare for and reduce these adverse effects.
Hazard A hazard refers to the potential occurrence, in a specific time period and geographic area, of a natural phenomenon that may adversely affect human life, property or activity to the extent of causing a disaster. A hazard occurrence (the earthquake, flood, cyclones or land slide, for example) becomes a disaster when it results in injuries, loss of life and livelihoods, displacement and homelessness and/or destruction and damage to infrastructure and property. Land slide that occurs over an inhabited mountainous area does not result in a disaster; however, it would be a disaster if it hit the populated slopes and caused extensive loss of lives and property.
Structural or physical vulnerability Structural or physical vulnerability is the extent to which a structure is likely to be damaged or disrupted by a hazard event. For example, a Concrete house with solid foundation and secure roofing is less vulnerable to severe cyclone winds than a semi permanent or corrugated iron structure Elevated well compacted roads, designed with sufficient width and height and with properly build drainage, are highly resistant to flooding because they are built above potential flood levels. Roads made of materials like sand, clay, or poorly compacted soil are less resistant to flooding
Human vulnerability Human vulnerability is the relative lack of capacity of a person or community to anticipate, cope with, resist and recover from the impact of a hazard. Factors that increase human vulnerability to disasters include rapid urbanization, population growth, and lack of knowledge about how to effectively resist the effects of disasters and poverty. Poverty is perhaps at the root of what makes most people vulnerable to the impact of most hazards . Persons living with terminal illness/conditions are also very vulnerable
Human capacities Human capacities are the qualities and resources an individual or community can use and develop to anticipate, cope with, resist and recover from the impact of a hazard. Human capacities include: Material resources (i.e. food, animals, cash, tools); Social and organizational capacities (i.e. leadership, previous organizing experience, community-based organizations and networks); Attitudinal capacities (i.e. beliefs, motivations, work values, ideas, creativity, efficacy).
Group work Identify most common hazards in your area of operation For each hazard identify population and structures thatare more vulnerable the hazard What factors influence their vulnerability? What capacities do the communities in your area of operation have that can be supported to reduce the impact of the hazard?
Disaster classification Disasters are often classified according to the cause, the speed of onset (sudden or slow) and whether or not they are due to "acts of nature" or "acts of humans"— What are some of the human actions that can precipitate natural disasters
Why is it important to classify disasters?
Classification cont … Classifications of disasters matter because: Preparedness, response and risk reduction measures depend on the type of disaster. Classification Informs the agencies or specialist to be involved It determines if controlling human action can prevent the re-occurrence of such disaster and/or reduce vulnerability
Hazards causing disasters Disasters classified according to cause are named after the hazard which results in the disastrous social and economic consequences. This classification includes earthquakes, floods, cyclones, tornadoes, landslides, mud flows, droughts, pest and insect infestations, chemical explosions, viral pandemics etc.
Speed of onset The speed of the disaster's onset is another way to distinguish between disasters— and the types of responses that may be required. A rapid onset disaster refers to an event or hazard that occurs suddenly, with little warning, taking the lives of people, and destroying economic structures and material resources. Rapid onset disasters may be caused by earthquakes, floods, storm winds, tornadoes, or mud flows – EXAMPLES: Floods of April and May 2024 that affected thousands of families in kenya
Speed of onset cont.. Slow onset disasters occur over time and slowly deteriorate a society's and a population's capacity to withstand the effects of the hazard or threat. Hazards causing these disaster conditions typically include droughts, famines, environmental degradation, desertification, deforestation pest infestation, viral pandemics(e.g. Covid19, HIV)
Acts of nature or acts of humans Disasters are sometimes classified according to whether they are "natural" disasters, or "human-made" disasters. Disasters caused by floods, droughts, tidal waves and earth tremors are generally considered "natural disasters." Disasters caused by chemical or industrial accidents, environmental pollution, transport accidents and political unrest are classified as "human-made" or "human-caused" disasters since they are the direct result of human action. Most disasters result from the actions or inaction of people and their corresponding political, social and economic structures.
Acts of nature or acts of humans H uman beings consciously or inadvertently create the social, political and economic conditions which lead to disasters. E .g. P eople living in ways that degrade their environment, D eveloping and overpopulating urban centres C reating and perpetuating political, social and economic systems that result in unequal access to land and resources. Disadvantaged Communities and populations settle in areas prone to the impact of a raging rivers or land slides- increased vulnerability
Disaster preparedness Disaster preparedness, is a broad concept that describes a set of measures that minimizes the adverse effects of a hazard including loss of life and property and disruption of livelihoods. Disaster preparedness is achieved partially through readiness measures that expedite emergency response, rehabilitation and recovery result in rapid, timely and targeted assistance. It is also achieved through community-based approaches and activities that build the capacities of people and communities to cope with and minimize the effects of a disaster on their lives .
Disaster preparedness A comprehensive disaster preparedness strategy includes the following elements: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessments Response mechanisms and strategies Preparedness plans Coordination Information management Early warning systems Resource mobilisation Public education, training, & rehearsals Community-Based disaster preparedness
Family level disaster preparedness This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC
Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessments
Group work Identify and name an area in your project coverage that is prone to disaster Name and describe the hazard/s ( the characteristics, frequency and potential severity)that precipitate disaster in the area Identify the sectors of the community (population, infrastructure, housing, etc.) that would be affected by a specific type of hazard and anticipate how they might be affected Assess the ability of those sectors to withstand and cope with the effects of hazardous phenomena Identify community resources that could be utilized to mitigate the impact of the disaster
Response mechanisms and strategies There are many preparedness mechanisms and strategies that will strengthen and increase the effectiveness of an emergency response. These include development or formation of: Evacuation procedures (including how to disseminate these procedures to the public) Search and rescue teams (including plans for training them) assessment teams (including plans for training them) An assessment process and information priorities for an emergency response Measures to activate special installations, such as emergency or mobile hospital facilities Procedures for activating distribution systems Preparations for emergency rescue centres and shelters Procedures for activating emergency programs for airports, harbours and land transport • Preparations for storing or making arrangements for rapid acquisition of emergency relief supplies and equipment
Preparedness planning Preparedness planning is very important for those involved in disaster management. During an actual emergency, quick and effective action is required. This action often depends on having made and implemented preparedness plans. If appropriate action is not taken or if the response is delayed, lives may be needlessly lost. Even before the magnitude of the disaster becomes certain, identify emergency shelter sites, plan and map evacuation routes, identify emergency water sources, determine chains of command and communication procedures, train response personnel and educate people about what to do in case of emergency. All of these measures will go a long way to improving the quality, timing and effectiveness of the response to a disaster.
Coordination Effective disaster response requires mutual trust and coordination of efforts and resources among the many agencies and people involved in emergency response—including the affected local population and local community based organisations , government emergency structures fire brigades, health departments and clinics, Red Crescent/Red Cross Societies, international agencies, NGOs /FBOs. It often occurs that other agencies and organisations have mandates and activities that overlap with those of the National Society. For example, a Red Crescent Society, a local Through direct coordination, agencies can clearly divide responsibility for different operations and plan their actions accordingly. Coordinated efforts, help in avoiding duplication and in identifying gaps and weaknesses in services in emergency response.
Information management Disaster preparedness and response depend on gathering, analysing and acting on timely and accurate information before, during and after disasters. Determine what information is needed for, where and how do you collect this information, who will collect it, who will analyze it and how it will be integrated into a timely decision-making process. Accurate early warning information related to hazard detection, forecasting and alerts is critical for effecting disaster preparedness and response
Early warning systems The purpose of early warning systems is to detect, forecast, and when necessary, issue alerts related to impending hazard events. In order to fulfil a risk reduction function, early warning needs to be supported by information about the actual and potential risks that a hazard poses, as well as the measures people can take to prepare for and mitigate its adverse impacts. Early warning information needs to be communicated in such a way that facilitates decision making and timely action by response organisations and vulnerable groups. Early warning information comes from a number of sources: e.g. meteorological offices; Ministries of Health (for example, disease outbreaks) How do these warnings reach the vulnerable populations?
The 4 elements of people-centered Early Warning Systems
Early warning signs In September 1994, in Papua New Guinea, on the island of New Britain, community elders who had survived the Rabaul volcanic eruption of 1937, noticed and acted upon several strange "early warning" phenomena that were similar to those that preceded the 1937 eruption. These phenomena included: "ground shaking vertically instead of horizontally, megapod birds suddenly abandoning their nests at the base of the volcano, dogs barking continuously and scratching and sniffing the earth, and sea snakes crawling ashore." This indigenous experience, combined with volcano preparedness awareness raising and evacuation planning and rehearsals that were initiated a decade earlier when the Rabaul volcano threatened to erupt again, undoubtedly contributed to the low death toll in September 1994. Three people died during the evacuation, despite the extensive damage to the city caused by the ash fall
What are the early warning signs of an impending Disease outbreak Flooding disaster Fire disaster Political violence
Resource mobilization Develop strategies, agreements and procedures for mobilizing and acquiring emergency funds, supplies and equipment in the event of a disaster. Preparedness plan should include emergency fund fundraising plan, mobilization of locally available and out-sourced equipment, tools, personnel and services. Identify community resources that can be utilized in disaster response
Community-based disaster preparedness Local volunteers, citizens, organizations and businesses have an active and important role to play before, during and after major emergencies and disasters. Community-based disaster preparedness (CBDP) is a process that seeks to develop and implement a locally appropriate and locally "owned" strategy for disaster preparedness and risk reduction. Local populations in disaster-stricken areas are the first to respond to a disaster. They are usually involved in search and rescue activities as well as in providing emergency treatment and relief to their families, friends and neighbors Enhance the skills and knowledge of these “spontaneous” disaster responders by providing them with education and training in preparedness measures, basic rescue techniques, first aid and emergency treatment.
Essential Skills and Knowledge : First Aid and Medical Skills: C ardiopulmonary resuscitation ( CPR) and Basic Life Support: Knowing how to perform CPR and other basic life support techniques is crucial for saving lives. Wound Care: Skills in treating various wounds, including bleeding control, bandaging, and infection prevention, are essential. Shock Management: Understanding how to recognize and manage shock, a common consequence of injury and trauma, is vital. Spinal Injury Management: Knowing how to properly handle and immobilize spinal injuries is crucial to prevent further damage. Mass Casualty Triage: The ability to quickly assess and prioritize patients in a mass casualty situation is critical for efficient resource allocation. :
Search and Rescue and communication Search Techniques: Knowledge of different search methods, including area searches, debris clearance, swimming, IPC(in disease out break) Rescue Equipment: Understanding and operating various rescue equipment, like ropes, harnesses, fire extinguishers, and extraction tools, Clear and Concise Communication: The ability to communicate effectively with other responders, victims, and the public is crucial for coordinating efforts and providing accurate information. Risk Assessment: The ability to identify and assess potential hazards and risks is essential for planning and responding effectively. Preparedness: Knowing what resources are available and how to mobilize them in a timely manner is critical for effective response .
Other important skills Teamwork and Leadership: The ability to work effectively as part of a team and to lead when necessary. Physical Fitness: First responders often work in physically demanding situations, so maintaining good physical fitness. Mental Resilience: Disaster response can be emotionally challenging, so developing mental resilience and coping mechanisms Psychological First Aid: Knowing how to provide basic psychological support to victims and other responders. Logistics and Resource Management: Understanding how to manage resources, including personnel, equipment, and supplies,
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
1 . Infrastructure Repair : Restore essential services and infrastructure damaged by the event (floods, earthquakes, etc.). Repair R oads, bridges, water and sanitation systems, power grids, and buildings. Ensure they are restored to be resilient to future events and incorporates sustainable practices. 2. Economic Recovery: Provide Support rebuild destroyed businesses through grants, loans, and technical assistance to businesses, promote entrepreneurship, and invest in recovery training programs. Think of alternative businesses that are less vulnerable to future shocks .
3. Psychological Support: Address the mental health needs of the community, especially those who have experienced trauma. Provide access to counseling services, mental health resources, and support groups. Ensure culturally sensitive and accessible mental health services. 4. Community Engagement: Involve the community in the recovery process, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Establish community forums, advisory committees, and participatory planning processes. Promote social cohesion and build trust between government and the community.
: 5. Preparedness and Mitigation plan Strengthen disaster preparedness and mitigation measures to reduce the risk and impact of future events. Implement early warning systems, develop disaster management plans, and promote community resilience initiatives. Incorporate lessons learned from this and past events to improve future preparedness and response.
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC