RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION
october 13, 2022
WHAT IS DISASTER RISK REDUCTION?
DRR is defined as the holistic approach to identifying, assessing and analyzing the threats associated with disasters and reducing future impacts based on those assessments.
While hazards are inevitable, and the elimination of all risk is impossible, there are many technical measures, traditional practices and public responses that can reduce the extent or severity of economic and social disasters. Hazards are a part of living with nature, but human behavior can be altered to better prepare.
The Sendai Framework provides a roadmap for DRR, outlining targets and priorities to prevent new and reduce existing disaster risks. These include:
- Understanding disaster risk
- Strengthening governance to manage disaster risk
- Investing in reduction for resilience
- Enhancing preparedness for effective response, and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction
It aims to achieve the substantial reduction of losses of lives, livelihoods and communities.
WHY IS DISASTER RISK REDUCTION IMPORTANT?
The risks associated with disasters affect lives, livelihoods and health; impacting the economic, physical, cultural and environmental well-being of individuals, communities and countries.
“Disasters, many of which are exacerbated by climate change and which are increasing in frequency and intensity, significantly impede progress towards sustainable development.” Sendai Framework for DRR.
Disaster risk reduction, therefore, not only saves lives but can help individuals and communities thrive.
All HANDS AND HEARTS’ APPROACH
All Hands and Hearts (AHAH) recognizes the journey after disaster strikes stretches further than recovery and the importance of resiliency and building back better. We want disaster impacted communities to recover feeling stronger, more resilient and empowered with the confidence in facing future disasters. This is why we work to make sure that both the buildings and the people that use them are safer and more prepared to face the days ahead.
In line with the developing global movement and guidelines as set out in the Sendai Framework, AHAH is committed to actively participate and develop DRR practices side-by-side with the communities we are supporting.
AHAH has developed a DRR framework to structure a number of guidelines and management approaches for the differing scopes of work i.e. principles developed specifically to support implementation in schools; risk reduction through resilient home rebuilds. We understand that each project and each community we work alongside will require tailored practices with bespoke elements.
A framework is only a first step in addressing the process, which is a long journey from the introduction of the principles to combined implementation with the AHAH team to the ultimate goal – developing capacity within the community for long-term behavioral change for Disaster Risk Reduction.
WORKING WITH COMMUNITIES
When we implement DRR training within communities, our main objective is to maintain a safe environment post construction, create a culture of preparedness and plan for future hazards, conforming to international standards.
Our initial approach is to review concepts such as the natural environment, historic and potential disasters, identifying and mapping hazards and risks to understand capacities and create a DRR framework. At the same time, we involve, coordinate and work with local education authorities and disaster management counterparts in planning and executing the training to make sure we are aligned with the in-country protocols and guidelines.
On the Philippines Typhoon Relief program in Southern Leyte, our Community Coordinator connected with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to provide training to the community on how to respond and prevent the risk of fires.
Additionally, as part of the process we have the community put together a DRR committee for actions pre-, during and post-disaster along with clear operating procedures. This ensures the long-term implementation and continuation of crucial training, infrastructure maintenance and behavioral-changes to build a community’s resilience to potential future hazards. Furthermore, AHAH provides extensive training to the wider community including engaging participants in real-life disaster-management activities such as drills for fires, earthquakes etc.
Utilizing the guidelines provided by the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Response (UNISDR), All Hands and Hearts is committed to working alongside disaster-at-risk communities to develop DRR practices and reduce the risks posed by future disasters. Together, we can work to protect as many students, families and individuals as possible from harm and increase the resilience of communities post-disaster.
