Glossary Term

Emergency preparedness

All activities and measures taken before and between hazard events to warn against them, to prepare, and to ensure an effective response. Examples include: a functional early warning communication mechanism; evacuation drills; skills in fire suppression, first aid, and light search and rescue; stockpiling of food, water, and educational supplies ahead of the drought/hurricane season or worsening conflict; safe keeping of records, teachers' guides, and curriculum materials; a national emergency preparedness and response plan; a provincial contingency plan and a school safety/preparedness plan.