Showing posts with label disaster response. Show all posts

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Apps for Emergency Preparedness and Response

By John Fisher (assisted by AI)

Introduction

Emergency preparedness and response applications are crucial digital tools designed to assist individuals, communities, and organizations before, during, and after emergencies. By enhancing situational awareness, streamlining communication, and providing access to critical information, these apps help a diverse group of users - from everyday citizens to first responders and healthcare professionals - manage crises more effectively. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of mobile apps into emergency management strategies has become a critical component of resilience and recovery efforts (Rodríguez, Donner, & Trainor, 2018).

Applications for Different Users

General Public: Individuals and families seeking to stay informed and prepared can use apps like the FEMA App, which provides weather alerts, safety tips, and emergency kit tools (FEMA, n.d.). Similarly, the American Red Cross appsoffer real-time alerts and preparedness information for specific emergencies, while the Ready.gov App helps users create emergency plans and build kits (American Red Cross, n.d.; Ready.gov, n.d.). The Disaster Alert app enhances global hazard monitoring, giving everyday users immediate access to threat information (Pacific Disaster Center, n.d.).

First Responders: Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics depend on specialized applications such as the NIMS ICS Guide to support Incident Command operations (Informed Publishing, n.d.). iAlertz provides real-time notifications for users in New York, and ERG2020 delivers critical hazardous material information for responders in transit (U.S. Department of Transportation, 2020).

Emergency Managers: Professionals at all levels of government utilize applications like the NIMS ICS Guide for operational structure and coordination. Tools such as Disaster Alert also help emergency managers monitor threats globally and disseminate alerts efficiently (Pacific Disaster Center, n.d.).

Healthcare Professionals: For doctors, nurses, and hospital staff, the Pocket First Aid & CPR app provides essential medical guidelines, while HealthMap: Outbreaks Near Me tracks local disease outbreaks, allowing quick preventative action (American Heart Association, n.d.; HealthMap, n.d.). The PFA Mobile app supports field interventions with Psychological First Aid tools, helping healthcare providers address trauma effectively (National Center for PTSD, n.d.).

Volunteers: Volunteer groups use tools like the American Red Cross apps to coordinate tasks and receive real-time updates during emergencies. Apps like PFA Mobile offer mental health support resources crucial for volunteers working in high-stress environments (National Center for PTSD, n.d.).

Organizations and Businesses: Companies focused on business continuity benefit from apps like the FEMA App and Ready.gov App to develop emergency plans and communicate with employees. Asset tracking and operational continuity are facilitated through emergency management-focused applications such as iAlertz.

Conclusion

Emergency preparedness and response applications have become indispensable tools for a wide range of users, from individual citizens to professional responders and healthcare providers. These apps ensure that critical information, resources, and communication channels are readily available, significantly improving preparedness and response efforts. As emergencies become more complex and technology advances, the role of mobile applications in saving lives and protecting communities will only continue to grow. Investing in the continued development and promotion of these tools is a key strategy for building resilient communities (Bumgarner, 2008; Van de Walle, Turoff, & Hiltz, 2010).

Keywords: emergency preparedness, mobile applications, disaster response, emergency management, situational awareness

Hashtags: #EmergencyPreparedness #DisasterResponse #MobileApps #CrisisManagement #ResilientCommunities

References

American Heart Association. (n.d.). Pocket First Aid & CPR. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org

American Red Cross. (n.d.). Mobile Apps. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html

Bumgarner, J. B. (2008). Emergency Management: A Reference Handbook. ABC-CLIO.

FEMA. (n.d.). FEMA App. Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov/mobile-app

HealthMap. (n.d.). Outbreaks Near Me. Retrieved from https://healthmap.org/outbreaksnearme

Informed Publishing. (n.d.). NIMS ICS Guide. Retrieved from https://informedguides.com/nims-ics-guide

National Center for PTSD. (n.d.). PFA Mobile. Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/mobile/pfa_app.asp

NIOSH. (n.d.). NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/

Pacific Disaster Center. (n.d.). Disaster Alert. Retrieved from https://www.pdc.org/disaster-alert-app/

Ready.gov. (n.d.). Make a Plan. Retrieved from https://www.ready.gov/plan

Rodríguez, H., Donner, W., & Trainor, J. E. (Eds.). (2018). Handbook of Disaster Research. Springer.

SAMHSA. (n.d.). Behavioral Health Disaster Response App. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/dbhis-collections/behavioral-health-disaster-response-app

U.S. Department of Transportation. (2020). ERG2020 - Emergency Response Guidebook. Retrieved from https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat/erg/emergency-response-guidebook-erg

Van de Walle, B. A., Turoff, M., & Hiltz, S. R. (Eds.). (2010). Information Systems for Emergency Management. M.E. Sharpe.

Sunday, September 08, 2024

Media Sources

photo credit: preventionweb.net

How Media Gather and Deliver Critical Information During Local Disasters

When disaster strikes, the public relies heavily on the media to provide timely and accurate information. Media outlets play a pivotal role in keeping people informed about the situation, emergency response efforts, and safety precautions. To do this, they draw from a variety of sources, ranging from official channels to real-time social media updates. Understanding how the media gathers and disseminates information during a disaster is crucial for ensuring that the public stays safe and well-informed. Let’s explore the key methods that media outlets use to gather critical information during local disasters.

Official Sources: Trusted and Verified Information

In times of crisis, official sources such as local government agencies, emergency management offices, and public information officers (PIOs) become the backbone of media reporting. These entities provide verified information on the disaster's impact, response strategies, and safety instructions. For instance, during a hurricane or wildfire, official briefings from local authorities can inform the public about evacuation orders, shelter locations, and relief efforts.

An example of this occurred during the 2020 California wildfires, where PIOs held regular press briefings to update both the media and the public on containment efforts, fire behavior, and necessary evacuations. This ensured that the information shared was accurate and consistent across all platforms, helping to avoid confusion and panic.

Social Media: A Real-Time Information Goldmine

Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have become invaluable tools for gathering real-time updates during disasters. Journalists closely monitor these platforms for posts from emergency services, affected individuals, and community organizations. Social media provides raw, unfiltered updates that can inform both the media and the public about the evolving situation.

A prime example of social media's power in disaster reporting was during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, where Twitter became a lifeline for many stranded in flooded areas. People used hashtags like #HarveySOS to signal for help, while journalists amplified these cries for assistance. In addition to firsthand accounts, local governments and emergency responders used platforms like Twitter to provide real-time updates on road closures, rescue operations, and supply distribution.

On-the-Ground Reporting: Firsthand Accounts from the Disaster Site

Journalists often go directly to the scene of a disaster to gather firsthand information. By interviewing witnesses, capturing live footage, and taking photos, reporters are able to provide immediate updates to the public. On-the-ground reporting is essential because it allows the media to bring the reality of the situation into people's homes, offering a clearer picture of the disaster's impact.

For example, during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, journalists were on-site in New Orleans to capture the devastation and report on the slow response to the crisis. This direct coverage brought global attention to the struggles faced by survivors, ultimately influencing the scope and urgency of the national response.

Public Contributions: Crowdsourced Information

In addition to official reports and on-the-ground coverage, media outlets often turn to the public for contributions. People in affected areas can share their own photos, videos, and information with news organizations, helping to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the disaster. Crowdsourced content is especially useful for covering large-scale disasters, where official information may be delayed or incomplete.

During the Nepal earthquake in 2015, public contributions played a vital role in media coverage. As communication lines were down in many areas, locals posted videos, images, and updates on social media, helping journalists and authorities understand the extent of the damage. Media outlets like CNN and BBC used this crowdsourced content to complement their on-the-ground reports, creating a fuller picture of the disaster.

Emergency Alerts and Apps: A Direct Line to the Public

Apps like FEMA's mobile app and emergency alert systems offer another critical avenue for gathering information during a disaster. These tools provide real-time alerts, safety tips, and updates that the media can relay to the public. For example, when a tornado warning is issued, news organizations quickly pick up these alerts and disseminate them through their channels to ensure widespread awareness.

In addition to FEMA’s app, local governments use emergency notification systems to send text alerts and notifications about dangerous situations. During the 2018 Camp Fire in California, emergency alerts informed people of the rapidly spreading fire, prompting swift evacuations. News organizations used these alerts as part of their real-time reporting, ensuring the public received the necessary information to stay safe.

Virtual Operations Support Teams (VOST): Digital Support for Disaster Response

Virtual Operations Support Teams (VOST) are specialized groups that assist on-the-ground responders by managing digital data and ensuring accurate information dissemination. These teams use digital tools to monitor social media, sort through vast amounts of information, and verify facts before they are reported to the public. VOST teams work behind the scenes to make sure that media outlets and the public receive accurate and actionable information.

For example, during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, VOST teams were activated to help monitor social media for misinformation and amplify verified content. This digital support ensured that both first responders and the media had accurate data to inform their updates, ultimately aiding the disaster response efforts.

Conclusion

During local disasters, media outlets rely on a combination of official sources, social media, on-the-ground reporting, public contributions, emergency alerts, and virtual support teams to gather and share critical information. These methods work together to create a comprehensive and accurate picture of the disaster, helping the public stay informed, safe, and prepared. By leveraging these diverse channels, the media plays an essential role in disaster response, ensuring that the public has access to timely and credible information when they need it most.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/8/2024

Utilizing Social Media for Information Dispersal during Local Disasters ...

Social Media and Emergency Preparedness - FEMA.gov

CERC: Working with the Media - Emergency Preparedness and Response

Media and Disaster Management: The Role of Media - IJAEM

Old Media, New Media, and the Complex Story of Disasters

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010784

Media and Disaster Management: The Role of Media - IJAEM

Old Media, New Media, and the Complex Story of Disasters

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010784

PIO role in disasters

Photo credit: lauderhill-fl.gov

Public Information Officer (PIO) Plays a Crucial Role in Disaster Response

In the midst of disaster response, timely and accurate communication can mean the difference between chaos and calm. The role of the Public Information Officer (PIO) is central to this communication, serving as the key figure responsible for ensuring that essential information reaches the public, media, and emergency response stakeholders. From managing media relations to developing crisis communication strategies, the PIO plays a multifaceted and indispensable role in disaster management. This article delves into the specific responsibilities of a PIO, highlighting the importance of their work in both emergency and non-emergency times.

Information Dissemination

One of the PIO’s primary duties is gathering, verifying, coordinating, and disseminating accurate information to the public and stakeholders. In a disaster scenario, misinformation can spread quickly, leading to confusion, panic, and even dangerous decisions. The PIO ensures that information provided to the public is correct and timely, balancing the urgency of the situation with the need for accuracy. This task requires strong coordination with field officers, first responders, and other sources of on-the-ground information, as well as a clear understanding of how to present complex data in a way that the public can understand and act upon.

Media Relations

The PIO is the point of contact for the media, which plays a significant role in shaping public perception during a disaster. PIOs provide regular updates to the press, answer questions, and work to correct any misinformation that may arise. This media interaction can help amplify the correct messages to a wider audience, making sure that official updates reach as many people as possible. By managing these relationships effectively, the PIO can ensure that the media becomes an ally in disseminating crucial information, rather than a source of confusion or conflicting reports.

Public Communication

Reaching the affected communities with critical information is another core responsibility of the PIO. Whether it's through public announcements, social media, or press briefings, the PIO ensures that people understand the current situation and the actions they need to take. This could involve giving instructions for evacuation, providing information on relief services, or calming public fears with factual updates. The PIO’s ability to communicate clearly and empathetically helps affected individuals navigate a disaster more safely and with greater confidence in their decision-making.

Coordination

During a disaster, multiple agencies, governments, and organizations are involved in the response effort, each with its own priorities and messaging. The PIO works closely with these different entities to ensure that all communications are consistent and free of contradictions. This coordination prevents confusion among the public and media and ensures that everyone is aligned with the same messaging. This requires constant interaction with emergency response teams, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as the flexibility to adapt to the evolving nature of the disaster.

Crisis Communication

Perhaps one of the most complex aspects of the PIO’s role is managing crisis communication. In a rapidly evolving disaster scenario, public perception can shift, and rumors can take root. It’s the PIO’s job to develop and implement communication strategies that address public concerns, combat misinformation, and maintain public trust. Effective crisis communication involves not only delivering information but also listening to the public’s concerns and questions, allowing for two-way communication that reinforces transparency and trustworthiness. By maintaining a calm and authoritative presence, the PIO can help manage public perception and keep panic at bay.

Preparedness

The PIO’s responsibilities extend beyond the immediate response to disasters. During non-emergency periods, they engage in preparedness activities that ensure readiness for future crises. This might include running risk communication campaigns to educate the public on potential hazards, conducting media training for disaster response teams, and maintaining communication equipment and resources so that they are ready to go at a moment’s notice. Preparedness also involves planning and conducting simulations or drills to test the effectiveness of communication strategies before an actual disaster strikes.

In summary, the role of the Public Information Officer in disaster response is multifaceted and critical to the success of any emergency management effort. By ensuring the flow of accurate, timely, and actionable information, the PIO helps save lives, maintains public trust, and coordinates the efforts of various agencies involved in the response.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/8/2024