Modules 1 introduces students to the study of disaster management and emergency planning. It will cover briefly the various types of disasters and the key stages of emergency planning and response. The discussion forum will introduce students to the first stage of Disaster Planning which focuses on the identification and analysis of the risks posed by hazards.

Headline competence (learning outcome):

Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the key stages of emergency planning and response, the hazards, and potential public health needs in the event of a disaster occurring.

Assessment criteria: 

• Illustrate the variety of disasters that can occur,
• Identify where emergency planning and response fits into the overall development spectrum,
• Discuss the key stages of emergency planning and response, e.g. Integrated Emergency Management System (US) and Anticipation/Assessment/ Planning/Preparation/ Response/Recovery, and what medical and other assistance is likely to be needed following a disaster .
• Explain the importance of considering mental health and substance use in disaster management planning and key actions to address these issues in the event of a disaster.
• Identify hazards in your setting that has the potential to become a disaster, and
• Gauge the risks (likelihood and severity) posed by the hazards identified.