BSC – SEM 7 – UNIT 7 – COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSING – II
Disaster Management
Disaster Management: Types and Magnitude of Disasters
1. Introduction
Disaster management involves planning, response, and recovery efforts to minimize the impact of disasters on human lives, infrastructure, and the environment. Disasters can be natural or man-made, varying in magnitude and severity.
2. Types of Disasters
Disasters are broadly classified into natural disasters and man-made disasters.
A. Natural Disasters
Natural disasters occur due to environmental and geological changes.
1. Geological Disasters
Earthquakes: Sudden shaking of the earth due to tectonic plate movement. Example: Nepal Earthquake (2015).
Volcanic Eruptions: Release of lava, ash, and gases from a volcano. Example: Mount Vesuvius eruption.
Tsunamis: Large ocean waves caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic activity. Example: Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004).
Landslides: Movement of rocks, soil, or debris down a slope, often triggered by heavy rains or earthquakes.
2. Hydrological Disasters
Floods: Overflow of water submerging land due to heavy rainfall, dam failure, or river overflow. Example: Bihar Floods (2019).
Flash Floods: Sudden, intense flooding due to heavy rainfall or dam failure.
3. Meteorological Disasters
Cyclones/Hurricanes/Typhoons: Intense storms with strong winds and heavy rainfall. Example: Cyclone Amphan (2020).
Tornadoes: Rapidly rotating columns of air causing destruction.
Droughts: Prolonged periods of water shortage due to low rainfall.
Heatwaves & Cold Waves: Extreme temperature conditions causing health risks.
4. Biological Disasters
Pandemics and Epidemics: Spread of infectious diseases on a large scale. Example: COVID-19 Pandemic (2020).
Pest Infestations: Locust swarms affecting agriculture.
Zoonotic Diseases: Diseases transmitted from animals to humans, like Avian Flu and Swine Flu.
B. Man-Made Disasters
Man-made disasters result from human actions, negligence, or failures.
1. Industrial Disasters
Chemical Leaks and Explosions: Example: Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984).
High-Impact Disasters: Affect entire countries or continents, leading to mass destruction and loss of life (e.g., tsunamis, pandemics, nuclear explosions).
Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Preparedness
1. Introduction
Disaster preparedness is a proactive approach to reducing risks and ensuring an effective response to disasters. It involves planning, resource allocation, training, and coordination to minimize loss of life, injury, and damage to property.
Emergency preparedness is a subset of disaster preparedness that focuses on immediate response and readiness to handle sudden emergencies such as natural calamities, accidents, and pandemics.
2. Disaster Preparedness
A. Key Elements of Disaster Preparedness
Risk Assessment and Hazard Mapping
Identify potential disasters and assess their impact.
Use historical data and geographical analysis to predict disaster-prone areas.
Emergency Planning
Develop disaster management plans for different scenarios.
Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) for disaster response.
Capacity Building and Training
Train first responders, healthcare workers, and volunteers.
Conduct mock drills and simulations.
Public awareness campaigns on disaster safety.
Infrastructure Strengthening
Construct disaster-resilient buildings, dams, and flood barriers.
Maintain emergency shelters and evacuation centers.
Stockpiling Emergency Supplies
Essential medical kits, food, water, and fuel.
Backup power supply, generators, and alternative communication systems.
Early Warning Systems and Communication
Installation of weather forecasting systems, sirens, and mobile alerts.
Establish emergency hotlines and coordination centers.
Community Participation
Educate local communities about disaster risks.
Engage community-based organizations and local leadership in disaster planning.
Government Policies and Legislation
Implement disaster management policies at local, national, and international levels.
Encourage cooperation among different agencies (e.g., NDRF, WHO, Red Cross).
3. Emergency Preparedness
Emergency preparedness focuses on readiness to respond when a disaster strikes.
A. Phases of Emergency Preparedness
Mitigation
Reducing disaster impact through preventive measures (e.g., flood barriers, fire safety systems).
Preparedness
Pre-arranged action plans, training, and drills.
Coordination with emergency response teams (firefighters, police, paramedics).
Providing psychological and social support to disaster survivors.
4. Common Problems During Disasters and Methods to Overcome Them
Disasters bring multiple challenges, including communication failures, resource shortages, and logistical issues. Below are common problems and solutions:
A. Communication Breakdown
Problem:
Disrupted phone lines, internet services, and power supply.
Inability to coordinate rescue and relief efforts.
Solution:
Use satellite phones, radios, and emergency broadcasting systems.
Establish local communication hubs for coordination.
Train community members in basic sign language or distress signaling.
B. Delayed Emergency Response
Problem:
Road blockages due to floods, landslides, or collapsed buildings.
Insufficient rescue teams or slow mobilization.
Solution:
Pre-deploy emergency response teams in high-risk areas.
Use drones and helicopters for rescue and delivery of supplies.
Develop alternative transport routes for emergency access.
C. Shortage of Food, Water, and Medical Supplies
Problem:
Panic buying leads to scarcity.
Lack of access to clean water and nutritious food.
Solution:
Stockpile essential supplies at government warehouses and community shelters.
Encourage rainwater harvesting and purification methods.
Set up mobile health clinics and temporary hospitals.
D. Overcrowded Shelters
Problem:
Lack of space, sanitation, and safety in temporary shelters.
Risk of infectious disease outbreaks (e.g., cholera, COVID-19).
Solution:
Pre-identify shelter locations and expand capacity before disasters.
Provide separate areas for families, elderly, and sick individuals.
Ensure proper waste disposal, sanitation, and water supply in shelters.
E. Mental Health Issues and Trauma
Problem:
Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in disaster survivors.
Increased cases of suicidal tendencies and substance abuse.
Solution:
Deploy counselors and mental health professionals to affected areas.
Conduct group therapy, community engagement activities, and stress-relief programs.
Train volunteers in psychological first aid.
F. Security and Law & Order Problems
Problem:
Looting, violence, and exploitation of vulnerable groups.
Increase in human trafficking and black-market activities.
Solution:
Deploy police, military, and security forces for crowd control.
Implement strict curfews and emergency laws.
Educate the public about reporting suspicious activities.
G. Environmental and Health Hazards
Problem:
Water contamination leading to diseases like cholera and dysentery.
Toxic gas leaks from industrial plants.
Solution:
Ensure proper disposal of waste and dead bodies.
Use chlorination and water purification methods.
Establish air quality monitoring in affected areas.
Disaster Preparedness and Response: Basic Disaster Supplies Kit, Emergency Relief Measures, and Life-Saving Techniques
1. Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
A disaster supplies kit contains essential items needed for survival during an emergency or disaster. It should be easily accessible and packed in a waterproof, portable bag.
A. Essential Items in a Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
Category
Items to Include
Water
– Minimum 3 liters per person per day for drinking and sanitation (at least for 3 days).
Food
– Non-perishable food (canned food, dry fruits, energy bars). – Baby food, if needed.
First Aid Kit
– Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, sterile gauze, adhesive tape. – Prescription medications and personal medical supplies.
Tools and Emergency Items
– Flashlight with extra batteries. – Multipurpose tool/Swiss army knife. – Matches/lighter (waterproof). – Whistle (for signaling help).
Communication & Navigation
– Battery-powered or hand-crank radio. – Mobile phone with power bank. – Local maps and emergency contacts.
Clothing & Bedding
– Extra clothing, raincoat, sturdy shoes, blankets. – Sleeping bags or thermal blankets.
Hygiene & Sanitation
– Soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissues. – Toothpaste, toothbrush, feminine hygiene products.
Important Documents
– Copies of ID, insurance papers, emergency contacts in a waterproof bag.
Cash & Emergency Contacts
– Small amount of cash (ATMs may not work). – Contact details of family, emergency services.
Additional Supplies for Specific Needs:
Infant needs: Formula, diapers, bottles.
Elderly: Extra medications, mobility aids.
Pets: Food, water, leash, carrier.
2. Disaster Response Including Emergency Relief Measures
Disaster response involves immediate actions taken to save lives, reduce damage, and provide relief. It includes rescue, first aid, and emergency shelter management.
A. Phases of Disaster Response
Immediate Response (Golden Hour – First 60 Minutes)
Search and rescue operations.
First aid and trauma management.
Evacuation to safe locations.
Emergency Relief Phase
Providing food, water, shelter, and medical care.
Restoring communication and transportation.
Psychological support and counseling.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Rebuilding infrastructure.
Providing long-term healthcare support.
Restoring normalcy in affected communities.
B. Emergency Relief Measures
Search and Rescue Operations
Locating trapped or injured individuals.
Using tools like rescue ropes, stretchers, and crowbars.
Removing debris and providing immediate relief.
Medical and First Aid Assistance
Triage system: Sorting patients based on the severity of injuries.
Managing fractures, bleeding, and burns.
Providing oxygen support in respiratory emergencies.
Shelter and Evacuation
Moving people to safe zones and emergency shelters.
Setting up temporary tents, community centers.
Providing clean drinking water and sanitation facilities.
Food and Water Distribution
Ensuring safe food supply to prevent malnutrition.
Water purification methods: Boiling, chlorination, or using purification tablets.
Mental Health and Psychological Support
Counseling survivors to reduce trauma.
Engaging in community support programs.
3. Life-Saving Techniques in Disasters
Life-saving techniques help in preventing death and reducing injuries in critical situations.
A. Basic Life Support (BLS)
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Used in cardiac arrest or drowning victims.
Steps (CAB method):
C – Chest compressions (30 compressions at 100-120 per minute).
A – Airway (Check if the airway is blocked).
B – Breathing (Provide 2 rescue breaths).
Heimlich Maneuver (Choking Rescue)
Used for choking victims.
Stand behind the person, place hands above the navel, and apply upward pressure.
B. Trauma and Injury Management
Control of Bleeding (Hemorrhage Management)
Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth.
Elevate the injured area.
Use tourniquet if bleeding is severe.
Fracture and Sprain Management
Splint the injured limb to prevent movement.
Use a sling for arm injuries.
Apply ice packs for swelling.
Burn Treatment
First-degree burns: Cool with water, apply aloe gel.
Second-degree burns: Cover with a clean bandage, do not pop blisters.
Third-degree burns: Immediate medical attention required.
C. Water and Fire Safety
Drowning Rescue
Use a flotation device if available.
Perform CPR once the victim is out of the water.
Fire Safety Measures
Stop, Drop, and Roll if caught on fire.
Use wet cloths to cover the nose in smoke-filled areas.
Never use elevators during a fire evacuation.
D. Poisoning and Chemical Exposure
Poison Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a doctor.
Identify the poison and seek medical help.
Chemical Burns
Rinse the affected area with clean water for 15-20 minutes.
Avoid touching or rubbing the area.
Disaster Management Module: Definition, Components, and Uses
1. Introduction
A Disaster Management Module is a structured framework designed to plan, prepare, respond, and recover from disasters effectively. It serves as a guideline for government agencies, healthcare providers, emergency responders, and communities to ensure systematic disaster preparedness and response.
Objectives of a Disaster Management Module
Minimize loss of life, injury, and property damage.
Enhance preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery strategies.
Strengthen community resilience and emergency response coordination.
Provide standard operating procedures (SOPs) for disaster management.
2. Components of a Disaster Management Module
A disaster management module typically includes four key phases: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.
A. Mitigation Phase (Risk Reduction)
Purpose: Reduce the severity and impact of disasters before they occur.
Key Activities:
Risk Assessment & Hazard Mapping
Identify high-risk areas for floods, earthquakes, cyclones, etc.
Use satellite mapping and GIS technology for disaster prediction.
Building Resilient Infrastructure
Construction of earthquake-resistant buildings, flood barriers, and cyclone shelters.
Strengthening dams, bridges, and hospitals.
Legislation and Policies
Implementing disaster mitigation laws and safety regulations.
Enforcing fire safety codes and environmental conservation policies.
Community Awareness Programs
Educating people on evacuation routes, first aid, and disaster response techniques.
Conducting mock drills and training sessions.
B. Preparedness Phase (Pre-Disaster Readiness)
Purpose: Ensure readiness to respond efficiently when a disaster strikes.
Key Activities:
Early Warning Systems
Weather monitoring and SMS alerts for floods, cyclones, and earthquakes.
Sirens, radio announcements, and mobile app notifications.
Emergency Preparedness Training
Training emergency responders, healthcare workers, and volunteers.
Conducting fire drills, earthquake simulations, and first aid training.
Stockpiling Essential Supplies
Water, food, first aid kits, power backups, fuel, and rescue tools.
Ensuring availability of medical and relief supplies.
Developing Emergency Response Plans
Defining roles and responsibilities of disaster management teams.
Establishing designated evacuation centers and shelters.
C. Response Phase (During Disaster)
Purpose: Implement immediate life-saving measures and emergency relief.
Key Activities:
Search and Rescue Operations
Deploy rescue teams (police, firefighters, medical personnel, armed forces).
Use drones, helicopters, and rescue boats.
Medical and Trauma Care
Setting up temporary hospitals and mobile health units.
Triage system for prioritizing critical patients.
Evacuation and Shelter Management
Moving affected populations to safe zones.
Providing temporary shelters, food, water, and sanitation.
Communication and Coordination
Establishing emergency hotlines and command centers.
Coordinating with government agencies, NGOs, and disaster relief organizations.
D. Recovery Phase (Post-Disaster Rehabilitation)
Purpose: Restore normalcy and rebuild disaster-affected areas.
Key Activities:
Rebuilding Infrastructure
Reconstruction of homes, roads, hospitals, and schools.
Restoring power, water, and communication networks.
Economic and Social Recovery
Providing financial assistance and insurance support to affected families.
Rehabilitating displaced individuals and vulnerable communities.
Mental Health and Psychological Support
Offering counseling and trauma care services.
Organizing community support programs.
Review and Future Planning
Evaluating disaster response effectiveness.
Updating disaster management plans based on lessons learned.
3. Uses of a Disaster Management Module
A disaster management module is used in various sectors to ensure preparedness, effective response, and post-disaster recovery.
A. Government and Policy Making
Helps in formulating disaster management policies and laws.
Guides government disaster response agencies (NDRF, FEMA, WHO, Red Cross, etc.).
Facilitates budget allocation for disaster mitigation and relief efforts.
B. Healthcare and Emergency Services
Enhances hospital preparedness for mass casualty incidents.
Guides medical triage, trauma management, and epidemic control.
Supports quick deployment of emergency medical teams.
C. Community and Public Safety
Educates citizens on disaster risk reduction and emergency response.
Encourages community participation in disaster drills and training.
Improves early warning and evacuation planning.
D. Business and Infrastructure Protection
Ensures business continuity planning (BCP) in case of disasters.
Helps in designing disaster-resistant buildings and industrial safety protocols.
Reduces economic losses due to disasters.
E. Education and Training Institutions
Used for disaster management training programs in schools and universities.
Helps in developing disaster risk reduction (DRR) curriculum.
Encourages student participation in mock drills.
F. International Humanitarian Aid and Relief Work
Assists NGOs and humanitarian organizations in disaster response planning.
Helps in coordinating global relief efforts in major disasters (earthquakes, pandemics, refugee crises).
Supports resource mobilization for disaster relief.
4. Advantages of a Disaster Management Module
✔ Saves Lives: Ensures faster response and rescue efforts. ✔ Prevents Damage: Reduces infrastructure losses through preparedness. ✔ Enhances Coordination: Provides a structured approach for disaster response teams. ✔ Increases Community Resilience: Educates people on safety and self-help techniques. ✔ Improves Economic Stability: Minimizes economic disruptions caused by disasters.