Government Efforts to Enhance Preparedness for Disasters: An Analysis
Disasters, both natural and man-made, pose significant challenges to societal well-being and economic stability. Governments around the world, including the federal one in the United States, have implemented a range of measures to enhance their societies' preparedness for such calamities. This article delves into the extent of these efforts and their effectiveness.
Urban Myths and Misconceptions about Government Preparedness
One common misperception is that government actions in disaster-prone areas are penalizing residents. The reality is far more nuanced. The government aims to protect all citizens regardless of their location, but this often involves redistributing resources to areas where natural disasters are more likely to occur. This is not motivated by malice but by a genuine desire to protect all communities.
The Federal Role in Disaster Preparedness
The federal government in the USA dedicates approximately 20% of its functions to disaster planning and prevention. This percentage varies based on current needs and resource availability. Additionally, another 20% of federal functions focus on disaster data tracking. The criteria for what constitutes a 'disaster' can be subject to political influences, which has been evident in the differing responses under the Trump Administration, where natural disasters were managed with mixed outcomes.
Local Government's Role
While the federal government provides a framework and resources, the majority of disaster preparedness efforts are overseen by state and local governments. Emergency management agencies, first responders like police, fire departments, and the National Guard, as well as EMS (Emergency Medical Services), play crucial roles in disaster response and management.
Intervention and Support
In cases of severe disasters, a state governor can request assistance from the President, leading to the activation of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) resources and other federal agency support. This not only helps with immediate response but also with recovery efforts.
Common Measures Taken
Flood Mitigation
One of the most common natural disasters the government prepares for is flooding. Over the decades, the U.S. government has implemented numerous projects to mitigate flood risks. For instance, the construction of dams, levees, and artificial lakes has been widespread. These measures not only address current vulnerabilities but also help in drought preparedness by providing alternative sources of water.
It's important to note that what might have seemed proactive in the past, like the construction of numerous lakes in Texas, may have been a response to a changing climate rather than just natural disaster risks. Overdevelopment and environmental changes have altered the landscape, making it crucial to adapt these projects continually.
Tornado Early Warning Systems
In regions prone to tornadoes, warning sirens and horns have been installed and connected to detection systems. These systems provide crucial early warnings, which can save lives by allowing residents to take protective measures and evacuate if necessary.
Evacuation Plans
Evacuation plans and policies are established and enforced in areas prone to hurricanes, tsunamis, and other severe weather events. For example, Hawaii has strict evacuation protocols for tsunamis. These plans cover everything from alerts and evacuation routes to emergency shelters and resources.
A Declining Proactive Approach
Interestingly, the approach to disaster preparedness has shifted over time. In the 1950s and 1960s, there was a significant amount of proactive construction and planning by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It felt like they were building lakes throughout Texas, although this was an exaggeration. However, the sentiment was that these projects were designed to future-proof the region against natural disasters.
However, in recent years, the trend has become more reactive. There has been a decline in proactive measures such as the construction of new infrastructure. Instead, the focus has shifted to repairing existing structures like levees or dams. There are very few examples of new proactive projects being initiated, such as creating new lakes, in the last few decades.
Conclusion
The government's role in disaster preparedness is multifaceted and critical. While there are valid criticisms about resource allocation and political influence, the overall aim remains to protect and support all communities. Future efforts should aim to balance proactivity and reactivity to better meet the evolving needs of disaster-prone areas.