What is the role of communication in disaster management?

Answer 1

SIGNIFICANCE OF COMMUNICATION IN DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND MITIGATION :Whenever we talk of "Disaster" we invariably imply the following distinct phases:

(a) Preventive and preparedness measures for ensuring minimum adverse effects,

(b) Follow up actions in the event of occurrence of a Disaster, to handle the "Aftermath" and make all efforts to mitigate - i.e.. to minimize to reduce eventual losses/damage to Life and Property.

Unless we have "Communication" at its best in all the required forms we will not be in a position to deal with the above phases to our entire satisfaction. In the aftermath of a disaster, time counts and efficient communication at all levels decides the success of all efforts. It is therefore essential to critically examine the role - and need - of communication. The discussion that follows will critically examine the same in the above mentioned phases.

Answer 2

ƒ We should not ignore the warnings

i s s u e d b y t h e m e t e o r o l o g i c a l

department through TV, radio, or

newspapers.

ƒ We should -

make necessary arrangements to

shift the essential household goods,

domestic animals and vehicles, etc.

to safer places;

a v o i d d r i v i n g o n r o a d s t h r o u g h

standing water, as floods may have

damaged the roads; and

keep ready the phone numbers of all

emergency services like police, fire

brigade, and medical centres.