The Effects of Disasters Are Not Equal.

The effects of disasters are not equal among all groups of people. There are many, diverse groups that are affected differently by disasters, when compared with most. Those who experience disasters would probably state that the effect it had upon their lives was tremendous difficulty. Disaster effects can be compounded for anyone who does not have ease of mobility, for any number of reasons.

From my own personal experience (disaster experience, and from the perspective of working with or for Federal, State and Local government for eighteen years), there are many diverse groups that aren't currently being included in disaster training, exercises, and planning-and they should be. I also observe that input from those in the community that do not have ease of mobility or access almost never happens in regard to disaster preparedness. I'm writing of those that are poor and cannot afford to leave, non-English speaking individuals, some who are elderly, those with sight or hearing difficulty, those that are not entirely mobile-if only temporarily, and those with cognitive disorders.

So, if there are many diverse groups (not just a few) who are more severely and significantly impacted by disasters, when compared with others, where is the disconnect in regard to including them in disaster preparedness? I am currently working on a project to find out more. Please stay tuned...