katastroofihaldust

Katastroofihaldust refers to the field of planning, organizing, and managing resources to minimize the impact of disasters, as well as to prepare for and recover from them. It covers all stages of disaster risk management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Practitioners work across government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and communities to reduce hazards, limit exposure, and strengthen resilience.

Core activities include risk assessment (hazard analysis and vulnerability assessment), development of emergency plans, establishment of incident command and communications protocols, training and exercises, stockpiling resources, and ensuring continuity of essential services. Early warning systems, hazard maps, and public information campaigns are common tools. Data collection, sharing, and coordination platforms support decision-making during incidents.

Legislation and frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction guide national and local strategies, with emphasis on prevention, preparedness, response coordination, and sustainable recovery. The field also addresses uncertainty and climate change, urbanization, and complex hazards by promoting resilience in infrastructure, health systems, and governance processes. Critics note that success depends on funding, interagency cooperation, and community engagement.