Disaster response related to different disaster types

Disaster culture has a differential effect according to type of disaster, according to Rajan (for literature reference see original source document). He argues that for “more conventional disasters, such as famines, floods, and cyclones… a prior systemic recognition of potential threats and a concomitant erection of reactive mechanisms, in addition to effective training” makes the government response more effective. He was specifically comparing these disaster types with the industrial “Bhopal gas disaster”. In other words, the government response to major industrial hazards is often less effective than for natural disasters, due to prior experience with naturally occurring disasters.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Norms/values, Individual/collective memory

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Response

Types of Actors Concerned: National civil protection body, Local authorities, Government

Recommendations:

• Develop a personal “culture of preparedness”