School Disaster Preparedness by Sir Nelson G. Agoyaoy

Understanding Disaster Preparedness in Education

Importance of Teacher Preparedness

• Teachers must be equipped with knowledge and skills to prepare for natural disasters, emphasizing the need for proactive measures.

• Resiliency is highlighted as a key trait of Filipinos, stressing the importance of understanding what constitutes a disaster and how to respond effectively.

• Former director Max Mayfield states that "Preparation through education is less costly than learning it through tragedy," underscoring the value of preemptive educational strategies.

Planning for Disasters

• Effective disaster preparedness requires clear lesson planning, defined objectives, and comprehensive evacuation plans involving all stakeholders.

• The International Federation of Red Cross defines disasters as sudden catastrophic events disrupting community functions, which applies directly to schools as communities.

Types and Causes of Disasters

• Human-induced factors contribute significantly to disasters, particularly climate change leading to extreme weather events like forest fires and floods.

• Individual actions are crucial in mitigating disaster impacts; teachers play a vital role in preparing students who may not receive guidance at home.

Categories of Disasters

• Various types of disasters can affect communities: natural (e.g., earthquakes, typhoons), social (e.g., arson), technical (e.g., chemical leaks), and epidemics (e.g., pandemics).

• The Philippines frequently experiences natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions, storms, earthquakes, and flooding due to its geographical location.

Technical and Social Disasters

• Technical disasters can arise from human error or system failures—examples include transportation accidents or chemical spills due to improper handling.

Understanding the Impact of Disasters

Overview of Current Global Conflicts and Disasters

• The discussion begins with an overview of various forms of conflict, including malware spread, warfare, civil wars, and terrorist attacks. These conflicts often arise from differences in color, religion, and philosophical beliefs.

• Examples are provided regarding civil wars and their implications on society, particularly focusing on how these conflicts affect educational institutions.

Notable Historical Events

• The speaker references significant terrorist attacks such as 9/11 to illustrate the impact of terrorism on communities and education.

• The Marawi siege is mentioned as a recent event where schools were attacked by terrorists attempting to recruit children through brainwashing tactics.

Effects of Disasters

Social Effects

• Disasters lead to various social effects categorized into social, economic, physical, health-related, political, and environmental impacts.

• A specific example includes the COVID-19 pandemic's increase in domestic violence due to lockdown measures leading to displacement.

Migration Patterns

• The discussion highlights migration patterns resulting from disasters like landslides or humanitarian crises (e.g., Rohingya fleeing Myanmar).

• It also touches upon historical migrations during conflicts in Yugoslavia and the Philippines due to demolition of informal settlements.

Family Separation and Social Isolation

• Family separations occur during disasters as individuals seek safety or new living arrangements.

• Social isolation is emphasized as a consequence of disasters that disrupt community interactions and socialization processes.

Economic Impacts

Financial Consequences

• Economic effects are discussed concerning how disasters hinder financial activities; for instance, schools closing leads to reduced financial inflow in communities.

• Positive aspects include the rise of online businesses during pandemics despite overall economic downturn.

Rising Costs and Business Closures

• The speaker notes rising costs for essential goods due to supply chain disruptions caused by disasters.

• Bankruptcy rates increase among businesses unable to cope with disaster impacts leading to significant economic challenges within affected areas.

Physical Effects of Disasters

Structural Damage

• Physical effects include structural damage from natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods that destroy buildings and infrastructure.

• Personal belongings are often lost during such events which further complicates recovery efforts for affected individuals.

Understanding the Impact of Disasters on Communities

The Nature of Personal Connections

• The speaker emphasizes that personal connections cannot be bought; they must be found and nurtured within communities.

• There is a mention of "displacement of properties," indicating the need for evacuation during disasters.

Structural Integrity and Safety Measures

• Discussion on assessing structural integrity, including checking building permits and adherence to building codes.

• Highlights the physical and mental effects of disasters, particularly in areas with fewer buildings, stressing community unity in times of crisis.

Temporary Solutions and Safety Concerns

• Addresses temporary safety measures for schools or buildings located near fault lines, emphasizing that safety should always be prioritized.

Health Implications Post-Disaster

• Notes the impact of flooding on school attendance due to health issues faced by teachers and students.

• Discusses overburdened healthcare systems during crises, leading to healthcare workers opting to leave their positions due to stress.

Mental Health Challenges During Crises

• Acknowledges brave healthcare workers who remain despite overwhelming challenges posed by epidemics and pandemics.

• Mentions the dire situation in hospitals where resources are scarce, leading to difficult decisions regarding patient care.

Societal Reactions to Disasters

• Explores how disasters can lead to mental health problems as individuals struggle with acceptance and coping mechanisms.

Social Unrest Following Disasters

• Describes societal unrest such as riots or fraternity wars that may arise from increased stress levels post-disaster.

Substance Abuse as a Coping Mechanism

• Points out that some individuals resort to drug use as a means of escaping their reality after experiencing trauma from disasters.

Physical Consequences of Natural Disasters

• Discusses severe physical injuries resulting from earthquakes or floods, highlighting both partial and complete loss scenarios.

Environmental Impact of Disasters

• Examines how chemical spills or nuclear waste incidents can overwhelm communities beyond their capacity for containment.

Psychological Trauma from Environmental Changes

• Emphasizes psychological trauma caused by environmental regulations following disasters, affecting community mental health significantly.

Climate Change Awareness

• Discusses the ongoing degradation of natural resources due to climate change, stressing its impact on biodiversity in the Philippines.

Conservation Efforts

• Mentions conservation groups working towards restoring habitats affected by human activity.

Climate Change Denial

• Notes skepticism surrounding climate change despite scientific evidence showing rising global temperatures leading to melting ice caps.

Rising Sea Levels

Ecological Imbalance and Its Consequences

Impact of Water Table Changes

• The discussion begins with the severe groundwater depletion leading to cracks in homes, indicating a significant ecological imbalance.

Invasive Species Threat

• The introduction of invasive species is highlighted as a major factor contributing to ecological disruption, overshadowing endemic species.

Educational Insights on Anatomy

• Reference is made to past science classes where students studied internal organs, emphasizing the importance of understanding anatomy for various applications.

Environmental Loss and Political Implications

• The conversation shifts to political effects post-disasters, noting how funds are often mismanaged or diverted for political gain rather than aiding affected communities.

Communication Breakdown in Leadership

• A lack of proper communication from leaders during disasters leads to inequitable resource distribution, causing public outcry among those who feel neglected.

Disaster Preparedness and Response

Coping Strategies for Disasters

• Tips are provided on coping with disasters, including the recommendation to utilize resources like the Libyan Red Cross Assarge map for preparedness.

Earthquake Preparedness

• Emphasis is placed on having a volcanic trench as part of earthquake preparedness strategies due to the Philippines' location within the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Understanding Geological Risks

What to Do During an Earthquake?

Importance of Staying Calm

• It is crucial to remain calm during an earthquake, as panic can lead to dangerous situations such as heart attacks or injuries.

• Keeping a clear mind helps in making rational decisions and avoiding chaos.

Safety Measures in Schools

• In schools, students should stay in open areas away from falling debris and structures that may collapse.

• Open spaces are recommended for gathering people safely during an earthquake.

Protecting Yourself

• Protect your head and body from potential falling objects; this is essential for personal safety.

• If on the top floor of a multi-story building, be cautious of shaking and avoid windows or heavy furniture.

Avoiding Hazards

• Stay away from bridges and power lines, as they can collapse or cause electrocution during seismic events.

• Move away from coastal areas due to the risk of tsunamis following earthquakes.

Post-Earthquake Actions

Checking for Damages

• Aftershocks are common; check for damages in buildings and report any hazards like flames or electrical issues.

Fire Safety

• Be vigilant about fire hazards post-earthquake; small fires should be extinguished promptly to prevent larger disasters.

Evacuation Protocol

• If you are a teacher, ensure all students are accounted for after the quake. Lead them calmly if evacuation is necessary.

Preparedness Before Natural Disasters

Emergency Supplies

• Store enough water and food supplies (at least three days' worth), especially before expected severe weather events like typhoons.

Emergency Preparedness and Safety Measures

Importance of Emergency Supplies

• Discusses the necessity of having battery-operated flashlights, extra batteries, and reliable sources for news updates during emergencies like brownouts or floods.

• Emphasizes checking school communications regarding class suspensions and safety protocols to ensure preparedness.

Communication and Contact Information

• Highlights the importance of having emergency contact numbers readily available, including police and repair services, especially in schools.

• Advises on staying indoors during severe weather conditions while monitoring local news for updates.

Evacuation Guidelines

• Warns against evacuating at night due to hazards such as flooded areas and live wires; stresses the need for caution when navigating through water.

• Recommends evacuating pets to higher ground with sufficient food and water supplies to ensure their safety during emergencies.

Dealing with Invasive Species

• Mentions the potential rise of invasive species post-disaster; advises returning home only after official declarations are made safe by authorities.

• Encourages reporting any issues to local government officials or barangay captains for community support during recovery efforts.

Post-Emergency Actions

• Suggests inspecting homes for damages after a disaster while avoiding power lines; warns about wild animals that may be displaced due to flooding.

• Stresses the importance of being cautious around floodwaters as they may contain dangerous wildlife or debris.

Health Precautions After Flooding

• Advises on health risks associated with stagnant water, including diseases carried by mosquitoes; encourages maintaining distance from potentially contaminated areas.

• Urges communities to stay informed about local health advisories following natural disasters, emphasizing personal responsibility in ensuring safety.

Community Resilience

• Discusses how communities can prepare collectively by sharing resources and information about emergency plans.

• Reflective thoughts on past experiences with natural disasters highlight the need for scientific understanding in addressing future challenges effectively.

Monitoring Natural Disasters and Community Safety

Importance of Monitoring News

• The speaker emphasizes the need to monitor news, particularly regarding volcanic eruptions and corruption. Social media is highlighted as a valuable tool for staying informed.

• Traditional methods like transistor radios are mentioned as alternative sources for receiving updates from authorities.

Public Safety During Emergencies

• The discussion includes the dangers of taking photos or videos during disasters, urging people to refrain from this behavior to allow authorities to manage situations effectively.

• Teachers are encouraged to prevent risky behaviors among students during emergencies, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols.

Response Strategies in Crisis Situations

• The speaker discusses the need for assistance during earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, stressing that help should be provided when possible.

• Recommendations include wearing protective gear like N95 masks due to ash exposure and ensuring skin is covered to avoid irritation.

Government Efforts and Community Awareness

• The government is working hard to ensure community safety, especially in areas affected by natural disasters. However, challenges remain in managing public awareness about risks.

• There’s a call for residents not to return prematurely to dangerous areas despite their desire for normalcy.

Understanding Risks and Preparedness

Science and Belief Systems

• The speaker encourages belief in scientific understanding as a means of comprehending natural phenomena like volcanic activity.

Addressing Various Types of Crises

• A range of potential crises is outlined, including school violence and laboratory accidents. Emphasis is placed on preparedness for various scenarios.

Managing Campus Violence

• Strategies for dealing with campus violence involve communication with stakeholders such as teachers and parents.

• There's an emphasis on investing in security measures within schools as a priority over other expenditures.

Handling Emotional Responses in Schools

Anger Management Techniques

• Programs focusing on anger management are suggested as essential tools for addressing emotional responses among students during crises.

Psychological Assessments

• Utilizing psychological exams can help identify levels of anger among students, aiding in better management strategies within educational settings.

Observing School Environments

Identifying Risks Within Schools

• Observations about school environments highlight concerns regarding external influences such as illegal organizations infiltrating student bodies.

Addressing Bullying and Violence

Understanding School Violence and Safety Measures

The Issue of Violence in Schools

• Discussion on corporal punishment and its implications for student safety, referencing Republic Act 7610 which addresses violence against children.

• Statistics indicating that Filipino students suffer from various forms of violence in schools, including bullying and harassment.

• Mention of a significant incident involving tourists that affected public perception and government response to school safety.

Crisis Management Strategies

• Emphasis on the need for schools to analyze situations thoroughly and gather all relevant facts during crises.

• Importance of having a crisis management team within schools to handle emergencies effectively, including communication with media outlets.

• Recommendations for schools to have protocols in place for suspending classes or diverting students during critical incidents.

Security Measures in Educational Institutions

• Highlighting the necessity of establishing a crisis management and negotiation team to prepare for worst-case scenarios, such as hostage situations.

• Suggestions for enhancing security through surveillance systems like CCTVs and assigning monitors during recess periods to prevent theft or violence.

Community Involvement in Safety Protocols

• Stressing the role of teachers, parents, and students in maintaining vigilance over personal belongings and overall school security.

• Recommendations for training staff on data privacy laws and cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information within school networks.

Addressing Cybersecurity Concerns

• Discussion on the importance of securing computer labs against viruses by restricting unauthorized access to USB drives or external devices.

Cybersecurity in Schools: Addressing Risks and Preparedness

Overview of Cyber Attacks on Schools

• The speaker emphasizes the increasing prevalence of cyber attacks targeting schools, urging educators to engage with students about these risks.

• Highlights the vulnerability of school computer systems, suggesting that they are easy targets for malicious activities.

Importance of Food Safety in Schools

• Discusses the necessity for schools to maintain food safety standards, particularly regarding food providers and canteens.

• Stresses the importance of checking food suppliers to ensure compliance with FDA regulations and avoid health hazards like food poisoning.

Health Risks Associated with School Meals

• Mentions specific guidelines from 2008 regarding acceptable foods in schools, advocating against junk food and soft drinks.

• Warns about potential health issues such as diarrhea or hepatitis from unsafe street foods available near schools.

Disaster Preparedness in Educational Institutions

• Encourages proactive measures for disaster preparedness, whether natural or manmade, emphasizing the need for knowledge and skills among staff.

• Urges educators to share information with students to enhance their readiness for emergencies, highlighting that preparation is crucial.

Conclusion and Speaker Introduction

• Concludes by reiterating that failing to prepare can lead to greater costs later on; emphasizes decision-making capabilities during crises.