Emergency management is an organized approach to preparing for, responding to, and recovering from unexpected events It is about assessing and managing risks, planning for continuity of operations, and building resilience and preparedness in a community. To be effective, emergency management must address multiple hazards, integrate operational and emergency management functions, and include the diverse roles of public and private sectors.
The emergency management field has grown significantly in recent years, as greater coordination and collaboration are needed to ensure safety, reduce the impacts of extreme weather, and manage disasters. Here are five of the best examples of emergency management in recent years:
1) Hurricane Maria: In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, leaving the island without power, water, or communications. The Puerto Rican government, along with the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), responded quickly by providing resources and assistance to citizens. A US Army Corps of Engineers task force was also activated to coordinate the response and rebuilding efforts. As a result, many Puerto Ricans are now looking to emergency management as a model for future disasters.
2) California Wildfires: In 2020, California experienced some of its worst wildfires in history. The emergency response centered on protecting communities and natural resources, while also utilizing fire protection efforts. Federal and state emergency management teams worked together on evacuations and distributed resources. They also employed technology such as infrared cameras to detect and map out fires, and coordinated with emergency responders to ensure safe community entry and exit.
3) Missouri & Mississippi Flooding: In 2019, heavy rainfall and flooding hit the states of Missouri and Mississippi. After emergency responders in both states coordinated efforts, the US Army Corps of Engineers built emergency levees along rivers and creeks. The Corps also activated a disaster response task force and provided technical assistance. As a result, the Corps was able to provide relief for affected communities and help protect vital infrastructure.
4) Tornado Outbreaks: In 2020, several states in the Midwest and South experienced a historically significant number of tornadoes. Emergency management teams in these states worked together to provide resources and information to citizens. They also coordinated evacuations, recovery efforts, and relief aid. In addition, the US National Weather Service activated teams to provide accurate forecasting, while FEMA provided hundreds of workers to assist in the response and recovery efforts.
5) Earthquake in Chile: In 2019, an 8.2 magnitude earthquake struck Chile, causing significant damage and devastation. The Chilean government immediately declared a state of emergency and requested assistance from the US and other countries. The US sent a team of emergency workers, while the Chilean government coordinated ground crews and mobilized medical and humanitarian aid. Ultimately, the government was able to keep casualties to a minimum and provide assistance to affected communities.
Overall, emergency management is a complex and challenging field that requires effective coordination and collaboration between public and private entities. The five examples discussed here demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of emergency management teams when responding to natural disasters. By collaborating and sharing resources, emergency management teams are able to provide relief to affected communities and ensure their safety in the event of a disaster.