Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction
The Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction is putting its money where its mouth is with a new website meant to step up communication on disaster risk reduction policy. The group, which was formed in 2007 to facilitate global communication between groups concerned with disaster risk reduction, is now online collecting local-level viewpoints for its Views from the Frontline program. Visit the site to learn more about the program and how it will support the U.N. disaster reduction plan and the Hyogo Framework for Action.
WISER 4.2
Emergency response just got a lot wiser, thanks to the latest release of the National Library of Medicine’s lookup tool for responding to hazardous material incidents. WISER, which stands for Wireless Information System for Emergency Responders, has just added a bevy of new features to its standalone and web-based hazmat information tool. Overlaying protective distances on a map of the incident, identifying chemicals by placard or transport type, and displaying images of biological agents at work are among a few of the new WISER 4.2 features.
The Alert Rabbit
Saving yourself from a Tsunami isn’t the only lesson to be found in The Alert Rabbit, a cute cautionary tale created by the children of a Thai village ravaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. It’s also an example of how kids can promote preparedness when they’re involved in disaster risk reduction strategies. The book, along with what went into its making, is available as a PDF download.
Between Bulls and Mosquitoes
This site, along with the documentary of the same name, aims to spread awareness of the need for earthquake preparedness education in Central Asia. The interdisciplinary effort includes project links and 12 lessons plans ranging from plate tectonics to earthquake drills, plans, and supplies. Created for teachers and others with little or no existing knowledge, the lessons are ripe for easy implementation.
Dreamis
Organizations might dare to dream when it comes to financing disaster mitigation and response, thanks to the Disaster Reconstruction and Mitigation Information System. The new site—a collaboration of the World Bank and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery—aggregates and analyzes past disaster information, looks at methodologies and lessons learned, and tracks expenditures to help increase the efficiency of disaster response by governments and aid organizations. Although some parts of the searchable database are still under construction, information on damage and loss—accessible by country, region, disaster, and other terms—can be accessed now.
DisasterPrepped.com
From wind generators to handheld water purifiers, DisasterPrepped.com has sorted a wealth of gadgetry into handy categories that will help you gear up for an emergency. Along with “solutions” for biohazards and terrorism; pets, kids, and schools; and communication and transportation—just to name a few—visitors can also read up on a new emergency preparedness topic monthly.