World Disaster Report 2013
Technology can be a double-edged sword in disasters, both enabling new levels of self-reliance and lending to dangerous infrastructure failures (think Fukushima). That’s why the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies chose technology as the focus of this year’s World Disaster Report. The report examines how technology has changed humanitarian action, new ways to use technology in disaster, and emerging trends in technology use.
Coastal Resilience
It’s bound to be an easy coast to resilience now that The Nature Conservancy has revamped its Coastal Resilience website to include a bevy of new apps, tools, and maps. Whether decision makers are looking to assess their coastal risk, find natural ways to reduce vulnerability, or check out possible impacts of the latest storm surge, the site is chock full of new, interactive ways to bolster coastlines.
Polar Portal
Not all Arctic ice is created equal, but this new website from Denmark will give you insight on what matters—sea ice and the Greenland Ice Sheet. The site reports the results of Danish monitoring of Arctic ice and includes details such as surface conditions, sea ice extent, temperatures, glacier positions, and mass changes. Links to resources, news, and information on monitoring methods are also available.
Guidelines for Smart Grid Cybersecurity
When it comes to the technology that controls the electrical grid, a lot has changed in the last three years. Luckily, the National Institute of Standards and Technology is on it with this draft edition of Smart Grid guidelines. The draft examines cybersecurity strategy, architecture, privacy issues, and other topics to ensure cyber issues don’t turn out the lights. The draft is available online and open for comments until December 23.
Responder Self-Care App
It’s no shock that first responders often neglect caring for themselves when they’re caring for others, but this app from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health won’t stand for it. The app contains checklists, reminders, and tips to make sure responders pack what they need, maintain their health and relationships, and take a moment to reflect when their mission is over. Available on iPhone and Android platforms.