Earlier this year, the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) reported that natural disasters, including the huge earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan, caused a record US$366 billion in damage with a total of 29,782 people killed in 302 disasters in 2011.

Keeping track of disaster data and maintaining reliable statistics is a priority for enabling timely preventative actions and better preparations.

A valuable resource for accessing such statistics and data is The International Disaster Database (EM-DAT) developed and maintained by the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) to help direct national and international humanitarian actions. It was initiated with support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Belgian Government in 1988.

The following graph shows the number of disasters reported from 1900 – 2010. What’s most intriguing is the trend.

One of two primary objectives was to evaluate OODAkits’ incorporation of NIMS (National Incident Management System) concepts and principles. Below are some of their key findings:

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“OODAkit is consistent will all NIMS criteria; it is consistent with Emergency Support, Hazards, Preparedness, Communications and Information Management, Resource Management, and Command and Management.”

“OODAkit applies to all Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) (Transportation; Communications; Public Works and Engineering; Firefighting; Emergency Management; Mass Care, Emergency Assistance, Housing, and Human Services; Logistics Management and Resource Support; Public Health and Medical Services; Search and Rescue; Oil and Hazardous Materials Response; Agriculture and Natural Resources; Energy; Public Safety and Security; Long Term Community Recovery; and External Affairs).”

As related to communications and information management:

“OODAkit provides access to critical information. The system allows for on- and off-scene personnel to have the same information about the incident, and it offers an incident overview by collating and gathering information that enables users to make effective decisions.”

How Does STEP Relate to Grant Programs or Guidance?

SAFECOM Guidance on Emergency Communications Grants provides guidance on eligible emergency communication activities and equipment standards. The guidance is directed toward grantees, including State, local, and tribal recipients. Within the SAFECOM guidance, STEP is referenced as follows:

“Grant funded systems, developmental activities, or services related to emergency response information sharing should also comply with the NIMS Supporting Technology Evaluation Program (STEP).”

STEP provides the necessary testing through an accredited laboratory to support evaluation of  NIMS concepts and principles and associated technical standards.