What is: Response & Recovery?

Even after the disaster has passed, there is still the need for organization. When help is provided during or immediately after an emergency in order to meet the needs of the people affected, it’s called response. Response, or relief, can be immediate, short-term, or for an extended period of time.

The focus here is giving emergency assistance to those who have been injured, reducing the chance of persons getting additional injuries and most importantly, trying to set the foundation for everything to return to normal.

In the recovery phase, activities are geared towards the restoring basic services like electricity and running water. Also, this is when repairs start.

During this time, it’s important that you support and help those who are in charge of the response and recovery effort. Obviously, after a disaster, you will be concerned about the safety of your family and possessions. However, this isn’t an excuse to be irrational. Authorities will give you instructions, which should always be followed. For example, only leave your home or the emergency shelter when you are told it is safe to do so.

What you can do during this period is put the knowledge you’ve gathered to good use. Educate others around you about what they should be doing or if you have any basic first aid skills, you can help persons with minor injuries. You can also help by clearing debris from around your home and community. You may feel as though you’re doing nothing, but during this phase, every little bit counts.