What is Emergency Preparedness?
The term "Emergency management planning and preparedness" can cover a wide variety of topics like emergency, risk, disaster, and hazard management as well as civil defense and protection. An "emergency" is defined as an exceptional event that exceeds the capacity of normal resources and organization to cope. All emergencies are by definition dangerous, which means that the potential loss of life is involved. Four levels of emergency can be identified as follows: (Alexander 2002)
- Routine Dispatch Problem – the most minor of emergencies, involving first responders;
- Incident – any emergency a jurisdiction can handle without needing to call in outside help;
- Disaster – also called a catastrophe, an incident involving substantial destruction and mass casualty;
- National (or International) Disaster – a disaster of substantial magnitude and seriousness.
Being prepared for an emergency is crucial for you and your family, in your home, in your place of business or your school and throughout your community.
Experts, including the American Red Cross, say that being prepared for an emergency takes planning, foresight, cooperation, and diligence. They say, "Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed."
For people with disabilities, proper planning could be lifesaving. It is essential for people with disabilities, their families and support system prepare carefully based on their unique needs.
