Articles tagged with Disaster Management
A new comprehensive course has been developed to enhance disaster preparedness for healthcare personnel, incorporating an interdisciplinary approach. The training program, conducted at the World Bosai Forum, focuses on skills such as psychological first aid, public health intervention, and crisis communications.
Researchers have designed a cloud-based autonomous system framework utilizing the standard messaging protocol for IoT. This framework maximizes network coverage area and increases speed of communication between unmanned sensors. The team plans to add computer vision and machine learning capabilities in future developments.
The world's largest informal settlement fire experiment found that fires can spread at an alarming rate, destroying homes in just five minutes. The study, published in Fire Technology, used advanced instrumentation and analysis to simulate the spread of flames through densely-packed settlements.
A new study by Brown University researcher Dr. David Dosa found that the actual death toll among Florida nursing home residents after Hurricane Irma was more than double the CDC's reported number, with 262 additional deaths in 30 days and 433 more deaths at 90 days
Researchers suggest using scientific data and predictive frameworks to identify risks of lead release, improving testing strategies and anticipating problems. Citizen scientists can aid in data gathering with mobile test kits, while AI and machine learning help identify relationships between water conditions and lead levels.
Researchers developed tools to help emergency response and relief managers assign volunteers efficiently. The 'Largest Weighted Demand' (LWD) policy assigns volunteers to the task with the most work left, prioritizing importance. However, for tasks with unclear workloads, alternative policies like 'Largest Queue Clearing Time' (LQCT) m...
A recent study found that Wikipedia's coverage of natural disasters is biased towards wealthy countries, particularly the USA and Canada. The study analyzed 458 flood events and found a greater tendency to cover these events in middle- and high-income countries.
A new research project aims to improve natural disaster emergency preparedness and response in countries badly affected by earthquakes, flooding, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. The RESPOND-OR project will investigate issues relating to emergency response management of large-scale natural disasters in Indonesia and Sudan.
Researchers analyzed gravel samples from three tsunami events and found a common change in composition approximately 40% of the way inland. This 'Tsunami Gravel Inflection Point' helps estimate ancient tsunami sizes, expanding research on disaster mitigation and coastal planning.
Managed retreat can achieve societal goals like community revitalization, equity, and sustainability. However, barriers include financial constraints and psychological issues, which must be addressed through strategic planning and social programs. Implementing equitable relocation policies is crucial to ensure the most vulnerable house...
Research in Haiti highlights the need for longer-term approaches to rebuilding, focusing on local community empowerment and trust development. Locally-based social entrepreneurs like Steve and Gabi have successfully mobilized villagers to build new schools, toilet centers, and farmers' cooperatives.
A Stanford University study found that lack of transparency in US home buyout programs leads to lower participation rates and perpetuates social inequality. The research suggests increasing clarity on decision criteria, community involvement, and emphasis on equitable relocation can improve the program's effectiveness.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new model that quantifies the vulnerability of communities to fire spread. The AGNI-NAR model assesses the risk of fires spreading to homes and groups of homes, providing practical guidance for urban planners and emergency managers.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have identified a framework to help victims of domestic violence before, during, and after disaster events. The framework integrates domestic violence services into disaster-related assistance, promoting empowerment for women and children.
Scientists have found that the North Anatolian Fault Zone can produce mega earthquakes of magnitude M8 exclusively in the east. In contrast, northwestern Turkey, including Istanbul, is not expected to experience such large earthquakes exceeding M7.5. The study suggests that the eastern region's older age and mature fault zone contribut...
A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers highlights the importance of social media in emergency situations. The public is often the first to adopt social media platforms during emergencies, creating a self-regulating environment where users can correct misinformation and share relevant information.
The University of Texas at Arlington has received a three-year, $250,000 National Science Foundation grant to collaborate with AIDICO on disaster mitigation research. The project aims to develop quick solutions to infrastructure and technology problems that arise from natural disasters, improving the resilience of civil infrastructure.
The study highlights the effectiveness of traditional institutions like Fa'aSamoa and The Samoan Way in responding to natural disasters. These community-based approaches have strong social capital and can be leveraged in disaster management policies and programs, providing a 'win-win' scenario.
Unusual dry spell in Northern Sumatra triggers use of slash and burn method to clear fields. Seven hot spots identified in oil palm plantations and forest concessions, fueling fears about the connection between fires and agricultural practices.
Researchers found that donors prioritize fatalities over those affected when deciding how much to donate. However, a simple change in terminology can reverse this bias, prioritizing the number of homeless individuals. By diverting attention from fatalities to survivors, aid can be allocated more effectively.
PLoS Currents: Disasters is a new publication channel for sharing research and operational analyses on disasters. It supports timely publishing and revision-friendly article formats.
China's 2008 Wenchuan earthquake exposed significant shortcomings in emergency preparation, including inadequate risk awareness and disaster prevention plans. The country has made progress in forming coordination systems and providing effective medical care, but research is needed to improve response times and treatment procedures.
The Office of Naval Research has developed a web-based tool suite called TRACS to help first responders rapidly coordinate resources during disasters. The tool takes data from the United Nations' ReliefWeb and displays it on a map-based diagram showing the locations of various resources, such as food, shelter, and health supplies.
The Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) rapidly rescues those trapped beneath concrete by creating a contained hole with high-energy jolts, making it up to four times faster than traditional methods. CIRT units have been distributed to various search-and-rescue teams across the US.
A new study will examine the value of using elevators as tools for attacking fires in tall buildings, building on previous national studies conducted by WPI and its national partners. The study aims to provide guidance that could influence codes for elevator design and placement in new high-rise construction.
Researchers found that role abandonment by first responders is unlikely if organizations are proactive in protecting their employees. The study suggests that employers should reach out to families and provide support and resources for spouses to alleviate role strain. Additionally, education on disaster threats and personal protective ...
Researchers have developed a model that simulates how disasters affect critical infrastructure, including bridges, roads, water treatment services, and vital economic components. The model aims to identify vulnerable elements to take proactive measures or find alternatives.
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that disasters disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities and mental disorders, with significant barriers to housing, transportation, and disaster services still present two years after Hurricane Katrina. Researchers recommend case managers knowledgeable about ...
The GEO-PICTURES project combines state-of-the-art satellite communication, navigation, and earth observation to provide accurate optical field observations and tagged position, transferred via satellite-optimized protocols. The platform will be developed in Oslo with several partners and hosted on the CERN campus in Geneva.
The study emphasizes the importance of including plastic surgeons in disaster-relief efforts, particularly in medical cases involving physical scarring and nerve damage. Plastic surgeons bring expertise in soft tissue trauma, facial trauma, burn management, and other areas that can be made worse by lack of quick attention.
Researchers at RIT and UB are developing real-time information products to help emergency responders during disasters. The lab will focus on technology, policy, and business-development to create potential business opportunities for industry.
The reports emphasize the need for a systems approach that considers both technical and sociological/psychological factors in crowd management. This includes training and familiarization with new systems, as well as involving front-line personnel in decision-making. The findings also highlight gaps in knowledge and areas where further ...
A new publication highlights the potential of index insurance to help manage climate risks and reduce poverty in poor areas of the world. Index insurance uses a weather index to determine payouts, allowing policy holders to access bank loans and other types of credit previously unavailable to them.
Researchers suggest 'age-responsive' actions should be integrated into risk assessments and disaster response plans to minimize harm to frail elderly people. The team proposes strategies to address the unique needs of this vulnerable group, including evacuation plans and shelter locations.
The HJF has released the Military Advanced Regional Anesthesia and Analgesia Handbook, providing education on advanced battlefield regional anesthesia techniques and acute pain medicine. The handbook aims to manage the pain of combat trauma and is intended for use by deployed medical forces.
A new study by NYU Professor Mitchell Moss suggests that the Robert T. Stafford Act is out of date and requires revision to provide rapid financial assistance after a catastrophe. The act's failure to recognize 21st-century threats and its lack of distinction between rural and urban disasters are major concerns.
A network of seismic instruments has been placed around Panama's Baru Volcano to help detect eruptions and mitigate danger. The Panamanian government funded the instrumentation, completed by the University of Panama's Department of Geosciences, in response to a joint study that revealed the volcano's potential for future eruptions.
A new analysis highlights the need for federal and state support to enable local governments to work effectively with communities to prepare for and respond to all disasters. Local organizations often lack resources and training, making it essential for local government officials to take a proactive role in disaster preparedness.
A recent study suggests that better hospital resource management and staff training are crucial in responding effectively to disasters. The study emphasizes the need for improved communication, planning, and education among hospitals to ensure a more efficient exchange of resources during critical situations.
A new book published by the University of Colorado Center explores post-disaster research and findings from 22 studies on emergency response, corporate interactions, volunteer behavior, and risk communication. The studies aim to improve public policy and disaster response in the face of terrorist attacks.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $12.5 million to Cal-(IT)², a two-campus science and innovation institute at the University of California, Irvine, to develop innovative information-sharing tools and organizational strategies for first responders in urban crisis situations. The project aims to provide critical tools to early...
The report recommends building disaster resilience into utility infrastructure, strengthening emergency response systems, and establishing constitutional legitimacy for disaster management. The authors aim to reduce the vulnerability of Caracas to natural hazards through innovative interdisciplinary approaches.
Six finalists from various industries are vying for the INFORMS Edelman Award, which recognizes outstanding examples of operations research. The winning company will have made a significant impact on their client organization's performance, with the top prize being $10,000.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a wireless broadband communications network for rapid deployment in disaster response and recovery efforts. The system uses the 28 GHz band to connect remote stations and provide GIS access, audio/video conferencing, and collaborative decision-making tools.
Healthcare experts analyze their responses to the 9/11 attacks, highlighting the importance of public first aid training and critical incident stress debriefing to prevent PTSD. Improved disaster management planning can save lives in future disasters.
The Plowshares Project enhances the US Army's Janus combat simulation model for emergency management events. TERRA simulates disasters and models effects on population and property. It also simulates individual field units and their actions in response to emergencies, facilitating interagency cooperation.