The Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) is the core of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, coordinating the delivery of assistance to countries affected by disasters [2]. It operates 24/7 and ensures the rapid deployment of emergency support, acting as a coordination hub among EU Member States, participating states, the affected country, and experts [2].
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/15/2024
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 is a global agreement that outlines concrete actions for states to protect development gains from the risk of disaster. It was the first major agreement of the post-2015 development agenda, endorsed by the UN General Assembly following the 2015 Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction [1].
The framework emphasizes the substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods, health, and in the economic, physical, social, cultural, and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities, and countries. It recognizes that while the state has the primary role in reducing disaster risk, the responsibility should also be shared with local government, the private sector, and other stakeholders [1].
In terms of emergency management, the Sendai Framework is crucial as it guides the integration of disaster risk measures into emergency management policies and plans. It focuses on understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance, investing in disaster risk reduction, and enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response [1]. By doing so, it aims to build the resilience of nations and communities to disasters. The framework covers not only natural but also technological hazards, representing an evolution compared to its predecessor, the Hyogo Framework for Action [2].
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/15/2024
Disaster Preparedness Statistics
Government Spending: In fiscal year 2020, governments spent a total of $29.6 billion on disaster relief, which amounts to $90 per person in the US [1].
Disaster Declarations: There were 114 disaster declarations in fiscal year 2023, with a notable increase in 2020 primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic [1].
Billion-Dollar Disasters: In 2023, the US experienced 25 weather- or climate-related disasters with damages costing at least $1 billion each [1].
Household Preparedness:
A 2023 survey indicated that 51% of Americans believe they are prepared for a disaster, and 57% took three or more actions to prepare for a disaster within the last year [3].
In 2020, 68% of surveyed individuals had taken three or more basic actions to prepare, such as gathering supplies (81%), seeking preparedness information (65%), and creating emergency plans (48%) [4].
Community Preparedness:
A survey showed that 86.9% of respondents reported that their jurisdiction has a hazard mitigation plan or an emergency evacuation/relocation plan. However, only 68.6% of those with a plan reported addressing issues of at-risk residents [5].
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/15/2024
Role of Local Communities and States in Disaster Response
Local Communities: They are the first line of defense in emergencies and disasters. Responsibilities include:
State Governments: They provide support and additional resources to local governments and act as intermediaries for federal assistance. State governments collaborate with FEMA to access federal programs and support local jurisdictions [3]. Local communities and state governments play a crucial role in disaster response by implementing emergency operations plans, providing essential services, and coordinating recovery efforts to mitigate the impact of disasters on affected populations.
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/15/2024
The expression "All disasters are local" emphasizes the idea that the impact of a disaster is first and foremost felt at the local level, and it is the local community that is the first to respond. This phrase was notably used by FEMA Deputy Administrator Richard Serino during a keynote speech at the International Association of Emergency Managers Annual Conference. He highlighted that before FEMA's establishment in 1979, local communities were primarily responsible for disaster response, with states and eventually the federal government providing additional support [1]. The saying underscores the importance of local preparedness, resilience, and the initial response to disasters before broader governmental aid becomes available. It serves as a reminder that the foundation of effective disaster response lies within the local community's ability to take immediate action.
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 6/15/2024
