Often referred to as “historic events” or “unprecedented times,” natural disasters are not always predictable in advance, even in areas that have historically experienced them. Therefore, communities and government agencies must prepare for all eventualities that would be likely in their geographic location. Planning, mitigation, response and recovery are essential to meet future unexpected challenges.
Professionals who want to build on their credentials and gain the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in emergency management can obtain that foundation through the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Emergency Management program from Millersville University. This program also helps students prepare for the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) exam through the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM).
Natural Disasters and Emergency Response
Flooding, wildfires and tornadoes are a few types of natural disasters that require preparation and response strategies from local, state and national leaders. The CDC lists six additional categories of natural disasters people may face and the resources accessible on its site:
- Earthquakes: before, during and after safety procedures
- Hurricanes and tropical storms: before, during and after safety procedures
- Extreme temperatures: tools on how to protect yourself and your community
- Landslides and mudslides: conditions that often occur with flooding
- Volcanoes: being prepared if you live near an active volcano
- Winter weather: before, during and after safety procedures
Chemical or biological accidents and attacks are not technically “natural” disasters but can devastate areas for people and wildlife and cause civil disorder. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) notes that disasters start and end at the local level. The more knowledgeable and prepared the residents are in the affected areas, the more help emergency management personnel can provide to expand this resilience.
Emergency Management Professionals Plan Ahead
The science and technology professionals within the DHS are responding to the dynamic environment of disaster management by using “a collaborative, all-hazards approach to support resilience.” Research and development from academic and government institutions is continually enhancing new technologies. This includes using AI-based technologies to enable disaster prediction and detection. In fact, AI embedding improves planning, productivity, recovery and prediction. AI is a valuable tool assisting with alerts and warnings.
The steps emergency professionals take to manage disasters start with developing an emergency response plan (ERP), a guide professionals use to handle crises. An ERP includes defining roles, communication flow and resource allocation. The ERP should be continuously updated as professionals learn more and new risks emerge. The following are critical elements of a successful ERP:
- Drafting scenarios and conducting risk assessments: The creation of detailed scenarios and conducting risk assessments is the heart of a robust ERP. For example, before each hurricane season, FEMA and the National Weather Service collaborate to monitor and evaluate current conditions and historical storm data. This helps responders and the public to properly prepare for potential hurricane conditions.
- Manage warning systems: Upkeep of warning systems is crucial for disaster preparedness. Ensuring that all warning systems are tested and that leaders communicate their use and meaning to the public can significantly improve response times during emergencies. Related to this is the planning of evacuations and crisis communications. Being able to evacuate quickly and safely depends on clear, reliable communication channels disseminating the proper and timely information the public needs.
- Keep resources up-to-date: Making sure that resources are in reserve and supplies are stockpiled are other essential components of an ERP. Preparedness is not complete without trained professionals who regularly review and update resource inventory and optimize the allocation and utilization of resources for emergencies.
- Employing modern training approaches: Training responders and their teams is an obvious element of any ERP. Rigorous and continuous training ensures that responders are equipped and prepared for emergencies. Classroom instruction and hands-on simulations give responders the knowledge and skills they need when dealing with an emergency.
- Encouraging community education: Community engagement and education teach the public about potential risks and how to respond effectively. Tailoring this education to the unique needs of each community ensures everyone is better prepared to protect themselves, their families and their neighbors.
- Advocating for better stakeholder support: Beyond immediate disaster response, emergency professionals also lobby for stronger building codes, environmental conservation and funding for disaster relief. Advocates prioritize disaster preparedness and risk reduction by promoting new policies and ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations.
Worker Training Programs for Disaster Preparedness
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has a worker training program to prepare responders through the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). These training tools and resources are designed to ensure the safety and health of workers during and in the aftermath of disasters. Cleanup workers and emergency responders often work in environmentally hazardous conditions, and extra precautions and training are needed to protect them.
This program has supported the training of more than four million emergency responders and hazardous waste workers across the U.S. The program provides technical assistance for training, as well as assistance and support of site-specific health and safety training. It also includes support for mental health and stress issues that workers may encounter.
Become an Emergency Management Professional With an Online M.S. Degree
Professionals who want to gain the practical and theoretical knowledge to understand and prepare for disasters can earn an M.S. in Emergency Management online through Millersville University. Courses like Natural Hazards Primer and Emergency Preparedness for Industry focus on critical topics like industrial emergency preparedness, natural disasters, planning, mental health and trauma.
Emergency preparedness professionals are needed in various spaces, including local, state and federal government, nonprofit, education and regulatory agencies. Equipped with the skills from this program, graduates can handle natural disaster and all-hazard response scenarios with confidence.
Learn more about Millersville University’s online Master of Science in Emergency Management program.
