by Jeffry T. Del Pilar, AUGUST 2022
Anywhere in the world disaster takes place suddenly and destroys human life that could be a natural disaster such as geophysical disasters’ (e.g., earthquake, volcanic eruption, rockfall, landslide,); (ii) ‘hydro-meteorological disasters’ (e.g., flood, drought, storm, extreme temperature, and wildfire); and (iii) ‘biological disasters’ (e.g., pandemic, epidemic, insect infestation, and animal stampede). Others are caused by human actions, negligence, or errors known as ‘anthropogenic disasters.
To prevent the loss made by any form of disaster, we must treat it as essentially important and should be taken seriously. It is the responsibility of the government, and establishments including each individual to take appropriate steps to mitigate the effects of the disaster based on the guidelines and information cascaded.
Emergency contact numbers are readily available at our fingertips to look for. Social media is one of the platforms where we can get our LGU’s National Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) contact information including other member agencies depending on the situation. You can check this website for more information https://ndrrmc.gov.ph/index.php.
We somehow know that Manila or even other Metro is not prepared to handle a major disaster but there are many things we can do to minimize the impact on your household. Preparedness begins at home and preparing Manila means ensuring that enough families take simple steps to look after themselves.
- Educate yourself about emergency preparedness. Find out what to do in an emergency
- Prepare your family for emergencies
- Make a family emergency plan
- Assemble a household emergency kit
- Inform others about preparedness
- Educate your family and friends about being prepared for emergencies and disasters
- Connect with others and help build a more resilient Metro Manila or wherever your location is.
Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another. Think about how you will communicate in different situations. Water, food, and clean air are important things to have if an emergency happens. Each family or individual’s kit should be customized to meet specific needs, such as medications and infant formula. It should also be customized to include important family documents.
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About the writers:
Jeffry T. Del Pilar.
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