Educating about Disasters Preparedness: Before, During, and After.

Joshua B. Wijangco

At the present, our country Philippines is facing an unfortunate situation, Some disasters had challenged the Filipino people in the past years. First one is the eruption of Taal volcano, second one is the increasing cases of Novel Corona Virus (NCOV-2/COVID-19) which threatens not only our neighboring Asian countries but also the whole world, and sad to say, new cases of this respiratory syndrome has been alarmingly increasing at a steady rate every day. The question is, “How prepared is the government to address these state of calamities?” or should I ask “How prepared are you to deal with these disasters if this threatens you and your families safety and security needs?”

Disaster preparedness is imperative to all, you cannot say you’re healthy and you will not be affected by these spreading diseases or you live in an area with no volcano. Remember, the location Philippines is in the pacific ring of fire and situated in an area where we are surrounded by bodies of water, also, the climate of the Philippines is tropical. Why do I need to elaborate these, the above enumerated factors are the ones that make the Philippines very vulnerable to disaster and calamities like earthquake, volcanic eruptions, tropical cyclones and spread of pandemic diseases. By knowing this, can we really say that we are safe and disaster proof?

To truly understand the answers within these questions I’ve thrown, I would like to share some important things that could help anyone in the dealing with disasters before, during and after.

What is important before a calamity strikes? Before a calamity strikes you should always instill in your mind that a disaster may come any moment at any place in any circumstances. A very good disaster plan is important, and when I say preparation, I say proper knowledge on the different disaster or hazard that you may encounter in a specific place. It is not bad to read books, brochure and appropriate websites about things disaster risk, reduction, response and mitigation. This information really helps a lot. As they say, it doesn’t hurt to know a little because these knowledge can carry you a long way. Always keep an emergency bag or kit at home and secure important documents.

What is important to practice during the onset of a calamity or disaster? I think the most important thing is a clear and sound mind. In all calamity drills and practice, the word “PANIC” is highly discouraged. When a person is in a state of panic, his/her mind is not properly working and when the mind is not working properly, the body movement will follow therefore increasing the risk for injuries and casualties. During a disaster, it can be helpful to keep calm and think of all the information you know in managing the situation you are in. Do not take matters on your hand. A quick thinking and following a specific direction can save you and the others.

What is important to know after a disaster or calamity? After all things had settled and you already secured yourself and others, always remember that a follow-up disaster can occur at any moment like aftershocks post-earthquake, tsunami after coastal earthquake, flooding during and after typhoon, and earthquake after volcanic eruptions. By acknowledging these, find a safe evacuation center as soon as possible. Never go back to the area to secure your belongings. And never ever use social media to post misleading information on the calamity because this could lead to unnecessary panic and fear to everyone who might access the article and read it.

At least by knowing these, one can be equipped with simple knowledge that can be used in the future. As a parting word, disaster and calamity is like a thief in the night, he will strike the hardest when you are asleep, same with disaster, its effect would be massive if one is unprepared and unknowledgeable.

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The author is Master Teacher at Pampanga High School, Division of City of San Fernando,

Pampanga