ABOUT BDR: Message from the President
The Haiti Earthquake Tragedy – Another Wake-Up Call for All-Hazards Planning
In a span of just minutes, the recent earthquake in Haiti wreaked destruction so profound that it sent shockwaves rippling across the globe. The death toll has reached 110,000 to date, and some predict that more American lives were lost in the Haiti earthquake than in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Although the damages will be carefully assessed and quantified in the coming weeks and months, the full magnitude of the financial and human losses may never truly be known.
As the Haiti tragedy continues to unfold, many other communities will undoubtedly take a closer look at their own vulnerabilities. Never has there been a more compelling illustration of the need to plan for all types of disaster events, both natural and manmade. It is worth noting that while terrorist threats carry major press coverage, natural disasters pose a far more significant threat to our safety and well-being. In fact, out of the 40 to 50 Presidentially-declared disasters each year, more than 90% are organic, from fires and flooding to hurricanes and ice storms.
Given the myriad of events that can strike at any time—with little or no warning—the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is now vigorously promoting all-hazards planning for states and local governments. Their emphasis is on ensuring the ability of communities to restore quality of life and sustain economic viability following a disaster. Leading this movement are Secretaries Sean Donovan of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Janet Napolitano of the DHS, who helm the Long-Term Recovery Working Group, a strategic initiative focused on building a more resilient nation that can rebound quickly from catastrophe.
At BDR, we understand the need to prepare for all types of disasters, be it manmade or natural and emphasize an all-hazards preparedness in every plan we develop. Our team of expert consultants, many of whom have served on the front lines of response and recovery, are extensively trained to help jurisdictions identify likely disaster threats and prepare for them accordingly.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Haiti as well as those supporting the recovery effort. Disasters are a reality we must cope with, and in many cases they are beyond our control. However, being sufficiently prepared for the inevitable can mean the difference between a long and grueling aftermath and a swift return to normalcy.
Jonathan Burgiel
President
BDR
To learn more about BDR’s comprehensive emergency planning, response and recovery solutions, please call us at 1.866.540.2325.