Archive for the ‘Disasters’ Category

Technology For Stages Of A Disaster

Tuesday, July 1st, 2008

Chicago Emergency Services

Rob Boles points me to the Stages Of A Disaster as outlined by Ray Schurfield. Rob looks at how social media can be used at each stage. Decisions For Heroes will focus initially on the first & last.

  • Heroic (Immediate) - person takes actions to protect lives and property. Social Circle = family, neighbors & emergency teams.
  • Tunnel Vision (Weeks, to Months) - detachment & emotional numbing with person very-activity focused on basic tasks. Social Circle = Family, friends, work colleagues, civic groups.
  • Honeymoon (One Week to Three Months) - strong sense of lived through an experience, clearing debris and wreckage. Social Circle = Pre-existing & emergent community groups.
  • Disillusionment (Third Week Onward) - disappointment, anger, sadness over unfilled promises of aid. Focused on rebuilding personal life and sense of community lost. Social Circle = Self, Family.
  • Reconstruction/Recovery (Lasts of Several Years) - sense of determination in solving problems, seeking help and rebuilding lives. Social Circle = Community Groups, Government

Very interesting.

-Robin.

(Image Credit: Chicago Fire Dept. unit outside ByteSurgery HQ!)