Crisis preparedness and crisis response are critical for a wide variety of issues, ranging from natural disasters, pandemics, conflicts, or otherwise.
We are living in a VUCA world (volatile, uncertain, chaotic, ambiguous). Let’s prepare as best we can for the known and unknown risks around us. Please find below a list of issues to prepare for and respond to a crisis. More resources and links will be added here regularly.
Immediate Critical Issues – Crisis Response
Health and Human Safety
- Search & rescue
- Emergency medical services
- Psychosocial and emotional support
- Pandemic / COVID caution during the crisis
- Structural stabilization
- Fire suppression
- Toxins, air pollution, and other chemicals
Shelters
- Temporary shelters for those displaced
- Cleanup and support for those who can stay in their residences
- Replacement equipment, furniture, and supplies
- Repairs
- Securing property from further damage or theft
Food and Water
- Donation collection and distribution
Infrastructure Checking and Repair
- Bridges and roads
- Electricity
- Communications
- Water
- Traffic safety
Information
- Critical safety, security, and health information
- Connecting needs and support
External Resources
Personal and Community Emergency Preparedness Tips (from ready.gov)
Developing an Emergency Response Plan (from ready.gov)
Emergency Planning: Improve Community Preparedness with these Basic Steps
Identify and respond to basic needs first. See Maslow’s hierarchy for guidance:
