Emergency training and preparedness
While all emergencies are challenging for authorities and the public, cross-border crises represent an even greater challenge. Such events are uncommon, generally take agencies by surprise and can lead to cascade emergencies. The EU-funded TACTIC (Tools, methods and training for communities and society to better prepare for a crisis) project helped improve community preparedness for cross-border hazards. The consortium developed an online platform, assessing the connection between risk perception and individual behaviour. Project case studies focused on terrorism, floods, epidemics and earthquakes. Taking into account different activities and approaches allowed development of a multi-hazard approach to community preparedness and management strategies. The team also developed suitable educational materials. One output consists of a self-assessment for organisations operating in any of the project's four case study areas. The tool allows organisations to assess their risk communication activities. Based on assessment outcomes, participating organisations receive a report outlining strengths and weaknesses. The output offers suggestions for improvement and tips on developing a comprehensive communication strategy able to suitably influence the public. Researchers provided a similar self-assessment to individual citizens. The resource provided a short feedback report and linkages to useful websites. For both organisations and individuals, the consortium offered examples of best practices, detailed as an online library. The TACTIC project's resources allow organisations and individuals to assess and improve their emergency readiness.
Keywords
Emergency, training, preparedness, cross-border crises, TACTIC
