Preparing for Natural Disasters: Health Readiness and Response

Natural disasters strike with little warning, leaving devastation in their wake. Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires can lead to loss of life, injury, and even long-term psychological trauma. For medical and emergency responders, like Assist360, the challenge is twofold: the ability to respond quickly and the know-how and preparation to support those affected.

While organisations and individuals may not necessarily have all the medical expertise required in a crisis, there is much that can be done to prepare and cope with the aftermath of natural disasters.

In fact, many would argue that preparation can radically affect the outcome of a crisis, so with that in mind, we invite you to consider reviewing your duty of care obligations by incorporating this professional advice on how to prepare and cope with the aftermath of natural disasters.

First responders face a twofold challenge in a natural disaster: to react quickly, and offer trauma support.

Drills, supplies and communication

While medical and emergency responders like Assist360 are highly skilled to take control in a crisis, the preparedness of individuals and organisations to cooperate can mean the difference between life and death.

Training and drills

Carefully considering the potential of real-life disasters, even simulating them where possible through training and drills, is an effective way to design emergency plans. Making sure that everyone knows who to call and what to do for various scenarios can alleviate panic and save critical time. Drills and planning could include everything from assigning responsibility for triage and emergency care to logistical coordination and communication.

Emergency kits and supplies

Having readily accessible emergency kits is vital. These kits typically include medical supplies such as bandages, antiseptics, medications, and equipment like defibrillators.

Communication protocols

Clear and calm communication is critical during a disaster. While professional responders use advanced communication systems to stay connected and coordinate with other emergency services, individuals and organisations can help by having contingency plans, like ensuring access to back up communication channels. In addition, designating one spokesperson to adhere to communication protocols and updates, in advance, can alleviate chaos and misinformation.

Psychological preparedness

Preparing for natural disasters requires more than careful logistics planning, it also includes mental preparation. It’s worth knowing that medical and emergency responders are trained to manage stress during high-pressure situations. Being able to implement basic techniques like mindfulness and breathing exercises to relieve panic until a professional is on the scene can be empowering.

Common reactions to natural disasters

The immediate aftermath of a natural disaster can evoke a range of emotional and psychological responses. Knowing what to expect can mitigate further chaos and aid those who are in a position to provide support.

Anticipating the emotions that may be triggered in the aftermath of a natural disaster is key to emergency response.

Shock and denial

In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, feelings of shock, disbelief and denial are common. These initial reactions can numb the senses and make it difficult to process what has happened.

Anxiety and fear

Fear of the unknown, concerns about safety, and uncertainty about the future can lead to heightened anxiety. This is a common and natural response as people try to make sense of their surroundings and reality.

Anger and frustration

Victims may direct extreme emotions towards the situation, others, or themselves – expert emergency response training is vital.

Coping with trauma after natural disasters requires professional help, staying connected, and establishing routines.

Ultimately, survivors who were prepared, practice self-care in the aftermath and are willing to reach out to help others are generally known to restore their sense of normalcy quicker than others.

A good emergency response plan should include further support in the form of continued monitoring and trauma counselling.

Reach out, educate, recover 

Finally, organisations and individuals who have the resources to do so are encouraged to adapt their social initiatives to educate communities about both the physical health and psychological effects of natural disasters. These can include workshops, information sessions, and distribution of educational material, all of which can contribute to the recovery and sustainability of locals and their environments.

To create a solid, in-house emergency response plan, consider reaching out to the experts. Assist360, with over 20 years of experience in complex environments and crisis situations has the global network and expertise to offer unmatched crisis management solutions.