Emergency Management

While analyzing the model it is evident that these practices would have been beneficial during Hurricane Andrew and the September 11 terrorist attacks. One of the main reasons why it would have beneficial is because people would have been more aware of their surrounds and possible "terrorist" activities that may have been taking place. Col and Chu's analysis prove that there is a strong correlation between science and administrative action in a positive manner when they are used effectively together. If the two are applied, there is a stronger opportunity for reaction and possible prevention. If people are given the opportunity to learn things like what the weather looks like when there is a particular type of storm is coming, or how animals react to various poisonous gases in the air, etc. This arms them with important knowledge that could later prove to be detrimental and beneficial to their safety and others around them.

It is stated in the reading that that people can learn to be more active through experience of natural disasters and focused learning e.g., public disaster education campaigns during a warning (prepare) or an alert (evacuate or take cover) period. If experiences like these are shared through media, it can help to educate others so that they will be more prepared hen a similar situation occurs, it may even possibly given them the opportunity (depending on the situation) to avoid a dangerous situation or prepare themselves more efficiently.(Col & Chu, 2001, p.592)

Especially now it is important for education to take place to prepare people for all of the things that can happen in the world. I agree with Col and Chu's views on the importance of being prepared and sharing vital information through as many mediums as possible e.g. television, newspapers etc. This is the only way to learn and gather vital information that could one day be responsible for saving hundreds of thousands or, millions of lives. This reading truly gives meaning to the saying that "knowledge is power." Without it, one can be defenseless.

Reference

Col, & Chu, (2001). Handbook of Crisis and Emergency Management (1st ed.). New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc..