Disaster response
Disaster response
Disaster response (/dɪˈzɑːstər rɪˈspɒns/) is the second phase of the disaster management cycle. It consists of a number of elements, for example; warning/evacuation, search and rescue, providing immediate assistance, assessing damage, continuing assistance and the immediate restoration or construction of infrastructure (i.e. provisional storm drains or diversion dams). The aim of emergency response is to provide immediate assistance to maintain life, improve health and support the morale of the affected population. Such assistance may range from providing specific but limited aid, such as assisting refugees with transport, temporary shelter, and food, to establishing semi-permanent settlement in camps and other locations. It also may involve initial repairs to damaged or diversion to infrastructure.
The focus in the response phase is on meeting the basic needs of the people until more permanent and sustainable solutions can be found. The main responsibility to address these needs and respond to a disaster lies with the government or governments in whose territory the disaster has occurred. In addition, Humanitarian organizations are often strongly present in this phase of the disaster management cycle, particularly in countries where the government lacks the resources to respond adequately to the needs.
Etymology
The term "disaster response" is derived from the Latin dis- meaning "bad" and astro meaning "star", signifying a "bad star" or "misfortune", and the late Middle English responsum meaning "to answer". In the context of disaster management, it refers to the actions taken in reaction to a disaster event.
Related Terms
- Disaster management
- Emergency management
- Disaster recovery
- Disaster risk reduction
- Humanitarian aid
- Search and rescue
- Evacuation
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Disaster response
- Wikipedia's article - Disaster response
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