Natural Disaster Relief: Where To Turn
We have all heard of the destruction and devastation that can accompany a natural disaster. From hurricanes to tsunamis, wildfires, floods, and earthquakes, natural disasters can affect whole populations and leave us feeling helpless.
However, with the right resources, natural disaster relief can provide critical support at a critical time. In this article we’re going to look at some of the options available to those who are exposed to natural disasters and looking for ways to cope.
Types of Natural Disasters
There are many different types of natural disasters, each of which can cause serious destruction and upheaval. Some of the most common types of natural disasters include:
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Tsunamis – Tsunamis are large waves caused by sudden shifts in the ocean. Tsunamis can travel hundreds of miles from their origin point and have been known to cause catastrophic destruction in coastal areas.
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Floods – Floods occur when too much rain falls over an area and overwhelms the natural drainage systems. This causes levels of water to rise and causes destruction of property and crops.
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Hurricanes – Hurricanes, or tropical cyclones, are large storm systems that form over tropical regions, moving across the ocean and wreaking havoc on landfall. Typically accompanied by heavy rains and extreme winds, hurricanes can cause destruction and flooding.
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Earthquakes – Earthquakes are caused when two blocks of the Earth’s crust suddenly move against each other. Earthquakes can cause destruction of structures and tsunamis.
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Wildfires – Wildfires are fires that are not naturally occurring. They can be caused by lightning strikes or human negligence, but usually spread quickly and cause destruction of property and habitat.
Resources for Natural Disaster Relief
When a natural disaster strikes, there are several different organizations and resources available to help those affected. Here are some of the most common and important sources of natural disaster relief:
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Red Cross – The Red Cross is a worldwide humanitarian organization that provides critical aid during times of disaster. It offers shelter, medical care and assistance to those affected by natural disasters.
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Local and State Governments – Local and state governments can offer assistance and relief to those affected by natural disasters. This includes emergency services, such as search-and-rescue, as well as shelter and financial assistance.
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FEMA – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is a federal agency that offers assistance during disasters. It can provide emergency services, such as search-and-rescue and temporary housing, as well as longer-term assistance for rebuilding.
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Non-Governmental Organizations – Non-governmental organizations, or NGOs, are organizations that are not affiliated with governments, but have the aim of providing humanitarian assistance. They can provide aid in the form of medical care, food, housing and financial assistance.
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Volunteers – Volunteers from all over the world come to help those affected by natural disasters. They can provide medical assistance, search-and-rescue, or help with rebuilding.
Tips for Natural Disaster Relief
When a natural disaster strikes, it can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to remember when seeking natural disaster relief:
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Stay Calm – It is important to remain calm and keep a cool head during a natural disaster. Staying calm will allow you to think more clearly and make wise decisions.
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Contact a Relief Agency – Contact a relief agency, such as the Red Cross, to get information on resources available to you. It is important to do this as soon as possible after a disaster strikes to get the help you need.
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Check Your Insurance – Make sure you consult your insurance policy to ensure you are protected in the event of a natural disaster.
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Follow Instructions from Local Officials – Local officials know the best and most effective ways to respond to a natural disaster. When disaster strikes, listen for alerts and follow the instructions of local officials.
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Take Care of Yourself – Natural disasters can be traumatic experiences, and self-care is essential for recovery. Take the time to eat, rest, exercise and practice other healthy habits to help manage your stress.
Conclusion
Natural disasters can have devastating effects on populations, but with the right support and resources, natural disaster relief can be vital at a critical time. By understanding the different types of natural disasters, as well as the resources and tips available, people can better prepare for and respond to natural disasters.