Putting communities at the heart of emergency response
Aly’s paper, ‘Emergency Response Planning: Putting communities at the heart of emergency response’, highlighted the benefits of working with communities and used the Milford Sound response as a case study.
“We wanted to share how we strengthen our communities before, during and after an emergency.”
After hearing how other nations are working, Aly realised just how well Southland was doing on an international level.
“I had some great discussions with people from around the globe. In particular, I spent time talking with representatives from Australia, the USA and Canada who were keen to learn more about our community response planning and community hubs.”
Following the formal conference proceedings, Aly spent another three days with other delegates and local guides exploring Iceland. She learned how local emergency response adapted to the challenges of living in such a unique landscape.
“Several years ago, a lava flow threatened an Icelandic settlement. The local firefighters pumped seawater directly onto the lava to create a solid bank that diverted the flow away. It’s hard to imagine those sorts of scenarios in Southland. But it does go to show that communities everywhere are resourceful, innovative and able to rise to the challenge in an emergency.”
In addition to the lava fields, Aly was able to explore some of the unique geology and landscapes of Iceland. Visiting massive glaciers and learning about how climate change is affecting them was particularly memorable.
“It gave me a chance to get my ‘nerd’ on,” she laughs. “Did you know Iceland has the third largest glacier in the world, just behind Antarctica and Greenland? Sadly, they’re melting faster than they’re recovering.”
“I’m grateful for this experience and to meet other like-minded people involved with emergency response planning.”
Since her return, Aly has been deployed to the North Island to support communities responding to Cyclone Gabrielle. Her conference learnings around managing teams in high stress environments proved helpful.
Moving into the recovery phase of an emergency response, Aly acknowledges just how important that space is and how we can always be doing more to plan and progress this area.
“Helping our communities be more resilient by putting them at the heart of the response is a no brainer. We’re all in it together.”
THERE ARE THREE KEY STEPS TO BEING READY FOR ANY EMERGENCY.
1. Make a plan
A household emergency plan will help protect what matters most - you, your loved ones and your pets. It includes knowing the best way to leave your home in an emergency, where to meet and how to contact one another if separated.
2. Gather supplies
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a preparedness pro, gathering your emergency supplies is easy. A good rule of thumb is to have supplies for about three days. You’ll be surprised at how much you already have.
Many emergency or disaster situations could leave you and your loved ones stranded at home for days. Supplies you should consider include clean drinking water, blankets or sleeping bags, first aid kit materials, nonperishable food, and a torch and radio. Personal medications, pet supplies and food for your young family members are also important.
3. Get connected
In an emergency or disaster situation, you'll need to know how to get information and how to connect with people around you in your community. Now is a good time to connect so you'll be ready if a disaster situation occurs.
To find out more, and download a handy Household Emergency Plan template, go to www.cdsouthland.nz/get-homeready/
You can read the full Envirosouth magazine as a PDF online here.
