Since the year 2000, almost 1 million people have lost their lives to disasters caused by natural hazards. 2 billion people have been affected. 1 trillion dollars in damage was caused.
Every one dollar spent on preparing for disasters could save seven dollars in response. Yet, the international community is spending only 1% of aid on disaster preparedness.
We can't prevent disasters, but we can help prevent the human tragedies they cause.
From the National Library of Medicine Disaster Information Research Center. This list of links to apps and mobile Web sites provides a comprehensive array of tools to rely on in preparing for and responding to disasters. – More...
Key Resources
The following are are links to technical and practical information that will help health workers, health policy makers, program managers, and others respond to the disasters and emergencies.
They cover the vital sectors in emergencies, including health, water and sanitation, food security, and shelter. The resources include manuals, reference tables, checklists, briefs, pamphlets, posters, and teaching and training materials, and tools and job aids. Feel free to adapt them for your local circumstances and languages.
ReliefWeb is your source for timely, reliable and relevant humanitarian information and analysis. Our goal is to help you make sense of humanitarian crises worldwide. More...
Information on a natural disaster or other emergency anywhere in the world via Google Maps. It aims to keep you informed of emergency alerts for floods, tornadoes, winter storms, and other dangers that may be headed your way. – More...
OneResponse is a collaborative inter-agency website designed to enhance humanitarian coordination within the cluster approach, and support the predictable exchange of information in emergencies at the country level. – More...
WHO tracks the evolving infectious disease situation, sound the alarm when needed, share expertise, and mount response needed to protect populations from the consequences of epidemics, whatever and wherever might be their origin. – More...
Though emergencies grow increasingly complex, their impacts ever more devastating, UNICEF remains dedicated to providing life-saving assistance to children affected by disasters, and to protecting their rights in any circumstances, no matter how difficult.
UNISDR is the United Nation's office for disaster risk reduction. It was created in December 1999 as part of the UN Secretariat with the purpose of ensuring the implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction. View All Publications
Emergencies such as conflicts, disasters or epidemics, expose families to risks that make them especially vulnerable to disease, malnutrition and violence. More...
An international, independent, medical humanitarian organisation that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion and natural or man-made disasters. – More...
This resource provides more than 750 useful websites for health professionals, medical library communities, publishers, and NGOs in developing and emerging countries. More...
Infant Feeding and Emergencies - Aims to improve nutrition for mothers, infants, and young children and promote HIV-free survival of children, focusing on proven interventions that are effective during pregnancy through the first two years of life. – More...
Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) is the Philippine government's initiative to undertake disaster science research and development, advance the use of cutting edge technologies, and recommend innovative information... More...
This resource from Plan International is designed to give young people in the developing world knowledge about how to prepare and reduce risks they could face when disasters impact their communities.
Integrates perspectives from several historically distinct research communities studying climate science, climate impacts, adaptation to climate change, disaster risk management
The World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine is a non-operational, non-governmental, multidisciplinary organization whose mission is the global improvement of prehospital and emergency health care, public health, & disaster health and preparedness.
INEE is an open, global network of practitioners and policy makers working together to ensure all persons the right to quality education and a safe learning environment in emergencies and post-crisis recovery. – More...
The objective of this working group is to combine the knowledge from experts in the fields of sanitation with the knowledge from experts in the field of emergency response and reconstruction. – Presentations, Documents, Workshop
Provides concise, practical (but non technical) guidance on how to ensure appropriate infant and young child feeding in emergencies. Available in 13 languages. More ...
This class is one of three primary components of the National Network of Libraries of Medicine Emergency Preparedness & Response Plan. While the focus of the class is on enabling libraries to maintain their information services to their patrons.... – More...
Analysis of social media and internet news reports can enable researchers to track a disease outbreak faster than conventional medical notifications. Fast and accurate tools are needed to help avoid such national and international epidemics.
The Winter Survival Kit app can be as critical as a physical winter survival kit if you find yourself stuck or stranded in severe winter weather conditions. This app will help you find your current location, call 911, notify your friends and family, calculate.... – More...
A gateway to freely available online resources related to disaster medicine and public health. Resources include expert guidelines, factsheets, websites, research reports, articles, and other tools aimed at the public health community. – More...
The toolkit covers the vital sectors in emergencies, including health, water and sanitation, food security, and shelter. It also covers key field activities supporting the operations. More...
The topics include antibiotic treatment, sterilization, waste management, laceration and wound management, amputations, upper and lower extremity injuries, and printable 'best practice protocols' for numerous emergency/disaster situations. – Download
Has the humanitarian sector come of age? What lessons can we learn from past experience? What needs to be reformed so that we can better respond to people's health needs in emergencies? – More...
How the humanitarian community and the emerging volunteer and technical communities worked together in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti – Download
The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is the US's first hotline dedicated to providing disaster crisis counseling. The toll-free Helpline - 1-800-985-5990 - operates 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week. SMS (Text 'TalkWithUs' to 66746) – Download
2011 update: endorsed by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Surgical Infection Society. Despite advances in resuscitation and surgical management of — More
Improved water, sanitation and hygiene education helps fulfil every child's right to health and education. WASH in Schools enjoys widespread recognition for its significant role in achieving the Millennium Development Goals – Download
Safe and child-friendly water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in schools improves health, boosts education achievement, promotes gender equity and has a positive impact on communities. – Download
Wars and natural disasters deny generations the knowledge and opportunities that an education can provide. Education is not only a right, but in situations of emergencies, chronic crises and early reconstruction, – Download Handbook - Update
Provides guidance to Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies on effectively engaging in informal Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) educational initiatives Download
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) developed The Pediatric Preparedness Resource Kit in response to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. This resource allows for pediatricians, public health leaders and other pediatric care... More.. Download pdf
Many children face danger after a natural disaster or an emergency. The teacher resources in this collection raise students' awareness about both natural and war-related emergencies, the ensuing humanitarian response and other areas – More...
WHO and partners work together both at the global/regional and country levels to improve the effectiveness, predictability and accountability of humanitarian health action. At the global/regional level, health partners work to strengthen their individual and – More...
Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) - Education Cluster Strategic Plan 2011-2013 - to provide an overarching framework to better focus and support the collective action of organizations involved in education preparedness, response and recovery – More...
Topics include Morphological characteristics and distribution of venomous snakes, prevention of snakebite, venoms, antivenoms and treatment ancillary treatment and management at the community level. – Download
This handbook will help to redefine patient care for those who suffer from snake bite and scorpion sting and will be useful for health care providers, patients and policy makers. From the Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, India
The International Day for Disaster Reduction is organized every year on October 13th to celebrate and raise awareness about what we can all do to reduce our risk to disasters from earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornados, etc...
With natural and or manmade disasters occurring more frequently across our nation, public health professionals are facing new challenges that require competencies... More....
The necessity of identifying a systematic approach for the care of the sick and injured on wildland fire incidents has expanded over the last 30 years.
Doctors for You (DFY) is a humanitarian Organization based out of India, formed by doctors, medicalstudents and like minded people. DFY focuses on providing medical care to the vulnerable communities during crisis and non-crisis situations.
UK-Med grew out of the South Manchester Accident Rescue Team that started life as a local medical team acting in support of the rescue and ambulance services in Manchester. The team attended earthquakes in Armenia and Iran as well as .... More....
This guide was developed in order to have widely agreed upon psychological first aid material for use in developing countries. The material included in this guide is compiled from various internationally approved references mentioned at the end of this booklet.
From the National Child Traumatic Stress Network and the National Center for PTSD - Psychological First Aid is an evidence-informed approach for assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families in the aftermath of disaster and terrorism.
Most of the 300 clips are taken from old government and industrials films.They are short segments from wonderful old films and clips to use in teaching. Click here if you want copies of any of these for use in your training.
The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) offers self-paced courses designed for people who have emergency management responsibilities and the general public. All are offered free-of-charge to those who qualify for enrollment.
OSHA offers a wide selection of training courses and educational programs to help broaden worker and employer knowledge on the recognition, avoidance, and prevention of safety and health hazards in their workplaces.
Tox Town provides basic, background information on toxic chemicals and environmental health risks and is suggested for students, educators, and the concerned public who want to learn more about these topics.
Among the biggest challenges facing colleges and universities is the sheer number of environmental regulations that govern their activities. Universities are particularly challenged by these regulatory requirements because they tend to be ... More....
Authoritative training tools to assist emergency response organizations in saving lives, combatting terrorism, fighting fires, managing hazardous materials incidents, mitigating disaster, and protecting the environment
The CSB Video presentation and technical information on chemical incident reports and live models are highly informative, competent and latest in its origins. These videos give indepth knowledge of process safety requirements.
CDC has a fun new way of teaching about emergency preparedness. This graphic novel demonstrates the importance of being prepared in an entertaining way that people of all ages will enjoy. View the novella. Accessible text version transcript PDF.
Resources on taking care of pets and animals during disasters.
We understand that pets are an important part of the family, and once again, we encourage you to take some time to explore these resources and to share them with your patrons.
Make plans to ensure your pet's safety before, during, and after an emergency. This page provides organizations and resources that you can contact or access to help you plan how to protect your pets.
Emergencies come in many forms. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing you can do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared.
The purpose of this course is to help public health professionals learn to identify key aspects for local community emergency preparedness plans; ....More....
Features public education materials that disaster behavioral health response programs can use to create resources for reaching people affected by a disaster. More....
Disaster Hero is a free online game designed to teach children (grades 1 through 8), parents, and teachers/caregivers how to prepare for disasters. The overall goals are to ensure that players know what to do before, during, and after a disaster. More....
In addition to the physical and emotional impact of a disaster, you may also face financial challenges in the days, weeks and even months or years ahead. Of course, ensuring your family's physical safety is your first priority. More....
The Cochrane Reviews in this Evidence Aid Special Collection are freely available. A selection of Cochrane Reviews and their conclusions for healthcare topics that have been identified as important in the aftermath of a major earthquake. More....
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Ricin home page Some materials are also in Chinese, French, German, Spanish and/or Tagalog
WISER [Wireless Information System for Emergency Responders]
Provides succinct, crucial information for first responders and first receivers.
- Ricin record on webWISER, - Ricin on iOS and Android devices. After installing the app, click on "Known Substances," then "Search Known Substances" and enter 'ricin' in the search box.
WISER is designed to be used in the field as an app on a smartphone as well as on a computer. Its content can be downloaded for use when there is no Internet access or can be used while connected to the Internet.
Please encourage anyone in your institutions who may need quick info on chemicals, CDC Category A bioterrorism agents, and radiological agents to download WISER and become familiar with its use. It can be downloaded to iPhones, Android devices, iPads, laptops, and desktop computers for offline access by 911 operators, haz-mat responders, police, firefighters, hospital emergency departments, EMTs, paramedics, and the public.
WISER [Wireless Information System for Emergency Responders]
Provides succinct, crucial information for first responders and first receivers. WISER is designed to be used in the field as an app on a smartphone as well as on a computer. Its content can be downloaded for use when there is no Internet access or can be used while connected to the Internet.
- Ammonia record on WebWISER
- Ammonia record from the app for iOS and Android devices. After installing the app, click on "Known Substances," then "Search Known Substances" and enter 'ammonia' in the search box.
Please encourage anyone in your institutions who may need quick info on chemicals to download WISER and become familiar with its use. It can be downloaded to smartphones, iPads, laptops, and desktop computers for offline access by 911 operators, hazmat responders, police, firefighters, hospital emergency departments, EMTs, paramedics, and the public.
Other Useful Links
Below is a list of useful links to non-governmental organizations, professional associations, and international organizations and agencies.
Emergency Preparedness Education for CHRs (Indian Health Service)
This train-the-trainer information for Community Health Representatives (CHR) will provide the resources to teach people how to prepare an emergency plan and kit.
National Training and Education Division (Federal Emergency Management Administration)
Provide first responders with high-quality training that enhances their skills for preventing, protecting, responding to, and recovering from manmade and natural catastrophic events. Trainings can be in-person and online and several are free.
Regional Materials (Federal Emergency Management Administration)
This site offers brochures, posters, and radio public service announcements to help individuals, families, and communities prepare for disasters. They are customized by region to reflect the diverse local conditions and cultures found in Alaska and Indian Country.
Training for Tribal Representatives (Rural Assistance Center) Descriptions, locations, and contact information for free training by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Tribal Teen CERT (PDF, 12.4 MB) (National Tribal Emergency Management Council) VERY LARGE DOCUMENT. A train-the-trainer manual on how to implement and deliver the teen CERT program in their community. This a developed cirriculumn for adolescent learners. Created in 2007.
Organizations and Programs
American Indian or Alaska Native (National Resource Center on Advancing Emergency Prepardness for Culturally Diverse Communities)
Red Cross Launches Social Media Disaster Response Center
The new Social Media Disaster Response Center, located in the Red Cross National Disaster Operations Center in Washington, D.C., will monitor social media outlets for Red Cross related disaster information. A newly created volunteer opportunity with the Red Cross has arisen from the need to monitor social media during disasters and emergencies. These "Digital Volunteers" will be trained to respond online to questions from the public, distribute critical information and provide comfort and reassurance during emergencies. The digital volunteers will play a critical role in working to verify and curate an incredible volume of data during disasters, notifying Digital Operations Center staff of online trends and situational information that can inform disaster response efforts.
HHS/ASPR selects challenge winners for Facebook app
Three Facebook applications designed to help people prepare for emergencies and get support from friends and family in an emergency – from personal medical emergencies or car accidents to natural or man-made disasters – are winners of a Facebook application challenge sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR). Review the YouTube videos of each of the winning teams to learn more about the application. Team APL - Team Jamajic - Team TrueTeam Effort
NN/LM Earthquake Summit
The National Network of Libraries of Medicine Earthquake Summit will be held April 6th at the University of California, San Francisco Library and Center for Knowledge Management. The tentative schedule includes presentations by a scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the head of facilities for the San Francisco Public Library System, FEMA, National Library of Medicine Disaster Information Management Research Center (DIMRC), and an expert on disaster psychology.
NN/LM Hurricane Summit Report
The report from the National Network of Libraries of Medicine Hurricane Summit report provides readers with a visual feel for the summit, the content and speakers. It provides background information on some of the speakers, and their past research is provided through hyperlinks. The Takeaways page lists key elements of the Summit that can be used to explore further research.
Gulf Long-term Follow-up (GuLF) Study
Nearly two years after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, more than 10,000 cleanup workers and volunteers have enrolled in the National Institutes of Health Gulf Long-term Follow-up (GuLF) STUDY, a national effort to determine if the oil spill led to physical or mental health problems. Reaching the GuLF STUDY's target goal of 55,000 participants would make it the largest health study of its kind. For more information, people can call the toll-free number at 1-855-NIH-GULF (1-855-644-4853) or visit the GuLF STUDY website.
Emergency Managers Tool Kit: Meeting the Needs of Latino Communities
Visit the National Council of La Raza to view the recently-released emergency management toolkit and accompanying CD-ROM materials designed to improve responsiveness to Latinos in disaster planning, relief, and recovery efforts. This toolkit was developed by the National Council of La Raza in collaboration with the Office of Minority Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and Mosaica: The Center for Nonprofit Development and Pluralism, and the National Immigration Law Center.
Training Program on Emergency Preparedness for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
My Safety, My Responsibility, My Plan is a multi-session program to train adults with intellectual disabilities to understand and to be prepared for emergencies. Information is based on the principles set by FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, the American Red Cross and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Disaster Movies: Lessons Learned
See a list of disaster films from the CDC, which includes a synopsis of the disaster faced and the behavior the characters in the film should have followed!
NACCHO's Podcast with Contagion Screenwriter Scott Burns and Scientific Consultant Dr. Ian Lipkin
In the latest National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) podcast, Contagion screenwriter Scott Z. Burns answers questions about the fact or fiction of the movie alongside the film's scientific consultant, Director, Center for Infection & Immunity, John Snow Professor of Epidemiology, Columbia University Dr. Ian Lipkin. They also answer a few questions from 2012 Preparedness Summit attendees via Twitter.
Mass Gatherings in the News
Are you part of the preparation activity for events in your location? Make sure and check out the web page "Public Health Preparedness for Mass Gatherings". Recent examples of mass gathering news include the measles outbreak after the Super Bowl and London preparing for the Olympics with security drills. What events are happening in your community?
Emergency Preparedness for Farmers, Ranchers and other Rural Residents with Disabilities
Farmers/ranchers, family members, and other rural residents with disabilities are especially vulnerable to emergencies and disasters because of restricted physical abilities and greater physical isolation from neighbors and emergency services. This webinar provides describes the scope and nature of disability within the farm, ranch and rural population, and identifies the basic emergency management issues that may develop for individuals with disabilities living in rural communities.
Multimedia briefings – featuring video, audio, photo essays, interactive maps and more – on UNICEF's efforts to help children affected by conflict and natural disaster in countries in crisis.