Prevention and preparedness: biosecurity, early warning and contingency planning

Abstract

Disaster and disaster risk management are described differently by various agencies, but the underlying principles remain the same. Disaster risk management is a continuous and integrated multidisciplinary and multisectoral process of planning and implementing measures that establish a culture of risk avoidance by building resilient communities. Such communities can only be created through a systematic process of education, training and development, involving all stakeholders. A researched comprehensive disaster management plan should be developed, but will only be successful if it sets clear priorities; is practised, tested, adapted and/or amended where necessary; and is practical, feasible and well understood by all those who are involved. Everyone who plays a role in implementing this plan must recognise that role and be well trained in its execution. Capacity building for disaster management is also a multisectoral, multidisciplinary, integrative process, achieved through a system of integrated education, training and public awareness programmes.