Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Nigeria: From Response to Proactive Planning

http://www.unisdr.org/archive/33565?preview=b9b583c75ba

Nigeria agrees to strengthen disaster resilience

Photo copyright NEMA. The 2012 floods which impacted the country's GDP and displaced over six million people provided the backdrop to discussions this week between the Nigerian Government and UNISDR on disaster risk management.
 
ABUJA, June 12- The Nigerian government has requested the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) to facilitate the development of a comprehensive disaster risk management plan for Africa’s most populous country.
The agreement to move beyond a predominantly response-focused approach to disaster planning came after wide ranging discussions between Nigerian Vice President Namadi Sambo and the head of UNISDR Margareta Wahlström in Abuja.
Vice President Sambo summed up the philosophy that would guide his government’s approach when he told Ms Wahlström: 'It is time to come back to what the wise man said, prevention is better than cure.’
The strengthening of Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) was a top agenda item and Ms Wahlström said UNISDR would support NEMA’s efforts to complement its response capacity with more advocacy of disaster risk reduction, stronger local and state capacity and more proactive coordination of various actors.
‘Nigeria is already convinced that disasters are a development concern and it is increasingly aware of the impact of climate change so it is very encouraging to see the strong political commitment to strengthen disaster risk reduction as integral for protecting development gains,’ Ms Wahlström said.
‘It is impressive how key government ministries are really focused on strengthening Nigeria’s resilience and preparedness for disasters and climate change.
‘The recent floods have had a huge impact on public and official perception of disasters. It is the first time that Nigeria talks about the financial impact of disasters on the state and the people.
‘It is encouraging to see this deeper interest in the triggers of disaster and it’s important that we make progress because building a safer and more resilient country will be a long and challenging road. The need for good early warning systems is especially important.’
Other important outcomes from the talks included the organization of a national discussion to strengthen public-private partnership so that business can be an increasingly central actor in reducing disaster risk.
The Vice President and Ms Wahlström also agreed on the need to address the impact of disasters on children’s education in Nigeria. Many children directly affected by disaster are unable to attend school and in addition several schools are used for months at a time as centres for disaster displaced people, which means teaching cannot take place.
The Vice President also urged that the growing issue of armed conflict over resources, such as grazing land and water, between various groups, such as pastoralists and farmers, be a key part of the post-2015 replacement of the current Hyogo Framework for Action on Disaster Risk Reduction.
Nigeria has suffered repeated floods in many of its cities and continues to endure an ongoing drought in the north of the country.
The need for prompt action to reduce disaster risk was highlighted in a World Bank report, ‘Toward Climate-Resilient Development’, released this week in collaboration with the Federal Government. The report made ten practical recommendations for Nigeria to grow its economy and its resilience but warned of the consequences if concerted action was not taken.
Commenting on the report, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Federal Minister of Finance Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: ‘The 2012 floods in Nigeria were a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our communities, infrastructure and economy to climate-induced natural disasters.’
Nine of Nigeria’s 36 states in the Sahelian northern part of the country are currently severely affected by drought. The Ministry of Finance estimated that the 2012 floods reduced GDP by 0.36 per cent. At the time, the Guardian Nigeria newspaper reported: ‘Lagosians gasp for breath as flood ravages city’.
UNISDR’s recently-released 2013 ‘Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction’ said the floods from 2011 resulted in the highest claim settlement in the history of the Nigerian insurance industry.
The report focused on the port of Lagos, the country’s biggest urban area and Africa’s second fastest growing city, and said that the state government faced huge costs from corrective mitigation measures as a result of uncontrolled urban development that has generated increased risk.
About 70 per cent of Lagos’ population lives in informal, poorly regulated settlements. ‘While sound urban development policies exist, implementation of building and safety codes remains marred by corruption and limited capacity,’ The Global Assessment Report says.
‘About 80 per cent of artisans engaged in the construction industry are either unskilled or uncertified owing to an absence of standardized training.’

Friday, June 7, 2013

June 16-22 International Fire & EMS Safety & Health Week

International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc.

Intl Fire & EMS Health & Safety Week banner

Join ICISF in Supporting
International Fire & EMS Safety & Health Week
June 16-22

The International Association of Fire Chiefs and the National Volunteer Fire Council are sponsoring a week long event to call attention to the importance of the safety and health of Fire and EMS training and education. 

Given our mission of providing leadership, education, training, consultation, and support services in comprehensive crisis intervention and disaster behavioral health services to the emergency response professions, other organizations, and communities worldwide, ICISF is pleased to offer its support of this very important effort.

This year's international effort will capture the importance of responders taking responsibility for looking out for their own and each other's mental and physical well-being. Participating departments are encouraged to develop a week-long training program that focuses on a variety of issues that address their specific needs and environment. 
A major focus of the international campaign will be behavioral health issues, a topic that many still see as taboo in the hard-charging world of emergency response, but many departments are struggling with. 

Please join us in supporting this event by visiting the website for International Fire and EMS Safety and Health Week, where you will find an assortment of resources, including materials you can use in your own department or agency to promote and focus on responder health and safety. The resources include a list of activities that you can implement during this special event.

Thank you for all that you do to support the well-being of the first responders in your community.

Sincerely,

Donald Howell
Executive Director
ICISF, Inc.
3290 Pine Orchard Ln, Ste 106
Ellicott City MD 21042
(410) 750-9600

Red

Training Webinar: June 12, 2013. Terrorism Response Operations

Terrorism Response Operations
An Update on Current and Emerging Threats

June 12, 2013 -- 12:00 Noon Eastern

EMForum.org is pleased to host a one hour presentation and interactive discussion Wednesday, June 12, 2013, beginning at 12:00 Noon Eastern time (please convert to your local time). Our guest will provide an overview of current and emerging threats, improvised explosive devices (IED) and homemade explosives (HME) awareness, as well as planning and response considerations.

Our guest will be August Vernon, instructor, author, and Operations Officer for the Forsyth County, NC Office of Emergency Management. Mr. Vernon provides critical incident and crisis management planning and training at the local, regional, state and federal level.

Please make plans to join us, and see the Background Page for links to related resources and participant Instructions. On the day of the program, use the Webinar Login link not more than 30 minutes before the scheduled time. As always, please feel free to extend this invitation to your colleagues 

In partnership with Jacksonville State University, EIIP offers CEUs for attending EMForum.org Webinars.  See http://www.emforum.org/CEUs.htm for details.


Is your organization interested in becoming an EIIP Partner? 
Click here to review our Mission, Vision, and Guiding Principles and access the Memorandum of Partnership.

Training Webinar: June 20, 2013. Reduce Recidivism using Predictive Analytics

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You Are Invited to Attend this FREE Webcast
Reduce Recidivism using Predictive Analytics

Sponsored by 
IBM  
           

Reduce Recidivism using Predictive Analytics
   
Sponsored by IBM

Thursday, June 20, 2013 at 2:00 pm EST    


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Predictive analytics allows agencies to perform complex analyses of millions of files about prison populations, demographics and repeat offenders that reveal trends and patterns hidden in the data.

Attend our complimentary webinar on June 20 at 2:00 EST and learn how predictive analytics can greatly reduce recidivism and accelerate many corrections reform initiatives, such as:  
  • Security and parole planning   
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Social Media in the Emergency Management Field 2012 Survey Results

Published Date: June 3, 2013
Quite a bit is known about the public’s social media habits, including the public’s expectations concerning emergency management agencies’ use of social media. For example, 76 percent of adults responding to a 2012 American Red Cross survey expect help to arrive in less than three hours if they post an emergency-related request on social media. However, what is not well known are the perspectives of emergency managers toward social media. Do they feel emergency management agencies should be monitoring social media? Do their agencies’ capabilities for social media align with public expectations?
To date, much of the data on social media and emergency management is limited to anecdotal accounts or case studies. Thus, CNA, in partnership with the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA), funded the development and nationwide distribution of a 56-question survey to state, county, and local emergency management and response agencies in late 2012 to answer questions about social media use in emergency management. By taking a survey approach, we were able to provide a broader, complementary perspective to existing anecdotes and case studies. This report provides the key results of that survey.

Sunday, June 2, 2013

TDEM Showcase: May 31, 2013. DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season

News Release

May 31, 2013

DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season

DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) today hosted a hurricane emergency response exercise and resource showcase in Austin. Various resources, equipment, vehicles and numerous emergency responders from around the state convened at Austin Bergstrom International Airport to conduct interoperability and resource capability assessments, as well as logistical planning. Gov. Rick Perry, DPS Director Steven McCraw, TDEM Chief Nim Kidd and several state officials toured the exercise site today, one day before the start of the 2013 hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30.
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
“As a new hurricane season begins tomorrow, the most important element of emergency response starts with the individual. Everybody in Texas, particularly those along the coast, needs to have an emergency plan, an emergency supply kit and an evacuation route in place before a hurricane strikes,” Gov. Perry said. “We use these annual exercises to help us keep our system razor-sharp and ready for action at the first sign of trouble. Through practice, simulation and repetition, we've honed one of the most effective and efficient emergency response teams in the country.”
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
Emergency responders today showcased an impressive array of equipment: a wide variety of aircraft, including a C-130 Hercules Air Transport, Blackhawk Helicopter and Pilatus PC-12; multiple mobile command and communication trailers; water rescue equipment and several watercraft; and mobile fuel, water, livestock and kitchen units.  The agencies and organizations participating in the exercise included the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Military Forces, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas Task Force 1 and the Emergency Services Training Institute), Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Veterinary Emergency Response Team, The Salvation Army, Austin Fire Department, Civil Air Patrol and other private sector partners.  
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
“Hurricanes are a devastating force of nature, and today’s exercise demonstrates the extensive resources necessary to meet such a threat to the state,” said Director McCraw. “The state stands ready to assist our local partners in the event a storm or other disaster threatens Texas. Since early planning and preparations can greatly increase the protection of life and property, it is imperative that residents also begin taking precautions now.”
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
As the 2013 hurricane season begins, Texans should be preparing their families and property before a storm develops. Texas residents, especially those living along the coast, are urged to put together an emergency supply kit; learn evacuation routes before a storm hits; have a plan to ensure all family members and pets are able to evacuate safely if necessary; make preparations to protect your property from the impact of a storm; and stay informed about changing weather conditions in and around your area.
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
DPS Hosts Emergency Response Exercise, Urges Texans to Prepare for 2013 Hurricane Season
To find out more information on how to prepare for the 2013 hurricane season, please visit:www.texasprepares.org.
### (HQ 2013-67)

Friday, May 31, 2013

Final LinkedIn Poll results: How do you feel about the NY City Decision to create a high school solely for emergency management education?


How do you feel about the NY City decision to create a high school solely for emergency management education?
By Black Emergency Managers Association Charles D. Sharp. Chief Executive.  •   29 votes  •  6 comments  •  Ended 05 May 2013
51015202530Agree. Good for community26 (90%)Disagree. Not good for the community3 (10%)
Overall demographics
1.534.567.5918-29130-36337-44045+8
All others
11 male3 female

Comments
Black Emergency
Black Emergency Managers Association • Ron, thank you for your comment. I agree every organization should be touting this. I especially like the comment regarding the use of CERT or SERT (Student Emergency Response Teams) and other training being taught in every school within the U.S. by Chris Ainsworth. This is not just a local issue, but a national issue of concern to everyone and every community. Every community have different threats and risks. Lesson plans can be designed to incorporate this within school jurisdictions. The Dept of Education, Emergency Management for Schools is a vital resource in ensuring that these types of curricula can be implemented in addition to just the creation\formulation of school emergency plans for a jurisdiction and higher education (colleges and universities) that these funds are currently being allocated for. $100k to $500k for an emergency plan? Then community involvement and curricula should be a vital part of the proposal for allocation of those funds. Communities are the key and both can play a vital role in ensuring communities are sustainable and resilient.


Charlie
Charlie Fendt, MEP • The concept of a High school program of this nature is commendable. Any time you can capture young minds and promote emergency management, great things can happen for future generations. The one thing that concerns me about this endeavor is that New York state has very stringent requirements for teachers. I doubt you will find many qualified EM's and SME's that have not only the background in emergency management, but also hold the credentials to teach in in NYS, and if they are are qualified in Emergency management, One has to question just how much forethought was put into this announcement and if it is feasible, or just a political dream.
about 1 month ago | 


Tameka
Tameka Sharp • I think this is a fantastic idea as well; I see it being similar to performing arts high schools where students would gain the technical skills and preparation needed for careers in EM. I have read several news article and other posts about the announcement and none have indicated that it would be a school for black students only. I think BEMA is very excited about this announcement and is simply prompting discussion. If anyone has read differently, I would be interested in having the links.

Chris
Chris Ainsworth • A school whose focus is on EM fails to identify the many areas education of our youth need in life skills just to survive. A broader option would be to introduce CERT into the curriculum (it is only 20 hours) and have each school have a TEEN CERT team with members from all year levels. Teach them leadership, succession planning as they progress through the system, taking on new responsibilities each year, respect for team work and as a community the power of the united many achieves greater goals. The cost of setting up a single school for EM is elitist and sets the framework for long term demise of the the concepts of EM - which affects all the community. A disaster importunately is a great humanity leveller - your place in society does not matter - you are dependant upon the individual alongside you for survival. Spread the investment across all schools as a short term curriculum subject Just $0.02 of my thoughts , .
about 1 month ago | Flag commentVoted for Disagree. Not good for the community


Teresa
Teresa Smith • I agree. Everyone of all races can benefit on the effectiveness on preparedness, response and recovery during an emergency event.
about 1 month ago | Flag comment  Voted for Agree. Good for community


Ron

Ron Tyler • i think that this is a great idea. However, I have issues that it is only the "Black Emergency Managers Association" That is touting it. Why are others not coming forward or being a part of this? If this is a school only for "black" students" then I object. This High School should be open for anyone that has an interest in helping their communities and this nation.

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