From gas explosions to earthquakes: Case studies of disaster response in Taiwan

Abstract

This chapter begins with an introduction of the Taiwanese governmental structure, types of hazards, and the development of its disaster management system. I utilized the multiple case study method to review four major disasters that occurred in this country in the past 4 years. Data for the case studies were collected from official after-action reports, academic journals, commercial magazines, and newspapers. The data was carefully reviewed and compared to other resources prior to being reported in this book. In each case study, I reviewed response activities for each of the four disasters, and then arranged the lessons learned. Based on insights from disaster and risk research, I propose two suggestions at the end of this chapter for improving future response activities under the Taiwanese disaster management organization and response system.