Previously known as the Office of Disaster Preparedness, the Office will develop and implement a Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy that will establish the direction and structure for all phases of Disaster Management. The office will develop its resources along with the public and private sectors, to maximize efforts to prevent, prepare for, mitigate, respond to, recover from, restore and rebuild from, the effects of all hazards.
This will entail assisting in the preparation of specific Disaster Plans for all areas of the public and private sectors, and the coordination of all phases of Disaster Management, at all levels - Island, District and Community. Also critical will be the assessment of development and infra-structural projects regarding the Impact of Natural Hazards, utilizing vulnerability assessments and Hazard maps. Key to the overall effort will be the development and implementation of an effective public awareness and education program, coupled with partnerships with key agencies.
Specific measures to be implemented in 2005 include:
1. Construction and stocking of a dedicated Warehouse and Operating Centre at Long Point, jointly funded by U.S. Southern Military Command and the Administration.
2. Establishment of a Website, Disaster Management database and Library for use by all Agencies and communities, providing information on all aspects of Disasters.
3. Development and Implementation of a school�s awareness program.
4. Institutional strengthening of the Office and other agencies, to effectively manage emergencies and disasters.
5. Procurement of equipment, software and related technological instruments, to provide up-to-date information and analysis of hazards.
6. Planning and implementation of simulation exercises, to test and enhance planning and response capabilities.
7. Establishment of an effective and efficient island-wide Communication System.
8. Conduction of targeted training in Damage Assessment & Needs Analysis, Shelter & Disaster Management, Search & Rescue, Supply and Warehouse Management.
9. Development and phased implementation of a Flood Mitigation and Control Plan in conjunction with other agencies.
Our level of awareness and overall response to these natural hazards must be raised while not ignoring the manmade hazards, including fires, oil spills etc.
