Disaster Preparedness and Response

Year after year Haiti faces risks associated with disasters, and most commonly, hurricanes. Due to the January 12, 2010 earthquake, communities are even more vulnerable now than in previous years. Heavy rains, which cause landslides and flooding, are of particular concern.

While the Red Cross continues to support earthquake survivors, it is also focused on disaster response readiness and working with communities to help them prepare and mitigate risks.

Disaster preparedness and response activities include:

The distribution of text messages with disaster preparedness advice
Training emergency response teams to support communities if disaster strikes
Prepositioning relief items for quick distribution
Helping families mitigate risks within their communities by digging drainage canals, providing first aid training, implementing community-based early warning systems and upgrading latrines