Disaster preparedness has been a big topic in recent years, and no wonder. Natural disasters have consistently been on the rise year over year since 2019. Which is why it’s becoming increasingly important for local, state, and national agencies to plan ahead for extreme weather to secure the best disaster assistance resources possible.
Natural disasters are typically unavoidable and can cause massive amounts of destruction. This has always been the case, but more worryingly is that natural disasters are steadily increasing in frequency and severity. Now, more than ever, it’s key to have a plan for your community, your relief and recovery. On average, the number of disasters that occur each year rises about 7.4%. (Studies also show that the number of billion-dollar disasters are rising.)
Part of planning is accounting for who will be affected, who will respond, and which resources you will need to accommodate for your disaster assistance crew. Thinking of this is especially vital in high risk areas where disasters are more likely to occur.
States With the Most Natural Disasters
Depending on where you live, your community may face more disasters and different kinds of disasters than other places. This will play a big part in your approach. For example, four of the most dangerous states for natural disasters include Texas, Florida, California and Louisiana.
Texas and Louisiana typically get a lot of different types of disasters. While Florida is more likely to experience severe tropical storms and damaging hurricanes. (California tends to have more wildfire type disasters than water-related ones so they usually prepare accordingly to stay ahead of those.) This is where it helps to keep up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service for more detailed information about what you may face so you can create an effective disaster plan.
Disaster Planning 101
While many communities have a plan in place for where to house disaster victims, it’s equally necessary to plan for your responders. Disaster relief workers need access to safe, clean and comfortable facilities for easy rest, hygiene, and other basic needs that will help boost their work performance.
When putting your plans together, consider adding invaluable resources like mobile sleepers, food services, temporary structures (e.g. tents), and traveling restroom facilities. Disaster assistance solutions like those will provide the comfort your aid workers need and deserve as they serve the community’s recovery efforts.
Think about how many responders you will need for the disaster so you can choose the right mobile sleepers to house that number. Traditionally, mobile sleeper trailers come with 30, 36, or 42 bunk options. Determine the sizes and number of mobile sleeper trailers you need for your efforts.
Another resource not to forget would be laundry and shower trailers. Having these in your relief camp will allow you to care for your responders so that they can provide the services your community needs after a catastrophe.
