Andean Countries Set Strategies for Technological Disasters

Five Andean Region countries sent representatives with wide ranging expertise—health, environment, management, response and civil defense—to Quito, Ecuador to develop the strategy for a regional emergency prevention and response plan for chemical and radiological accidents. The meeting’s discussions emphasized the importance of preserving sustainable development and sharing responsibility between the public and private sector as the strategy evolves. More information in a future issue of this newsletter.

Radio Soap Opera Replayed in Trinidad

Trinidad and Tobago kicked off hurricane season by rebroadcasting “The Rough Season,” a radio soap opera that aims to raise awareness of disaster risk among vulnerable communities in the English-speaking Caribbean. Throughout 10 episodes, each 15 minute long, the characters find themselves dealing with natural hazards such as floods, hurricanes, storms, landslides, and even a food security crisis. This radio soap opera is an inter-agency effort of PAHO/WHO, the ISDR, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Association of Caribbean States.

Bogota Prepares its Citizens for Earthquakes

The elevated seismic risk that Bogota, Colombia lives with daily prompted the capital city’s disaster prevention and response office to produce a colorful, well-written booklet on what to do before, during and after an earthquake. Promoting the idea that the reader is the first line of defense for protecting life and property, the booklet allows the reader to evaluate and take responsibility for reducing personal vulnerability. An excellent example for other cities and municipalities wishing to produce similar material. View the booklet (Spanish only) at www.disaster-info.net/terremotosBogota.pdf.