International Day for Disaster Reduction

International Day for Disaster Reduction

International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing the risks associated with disasters and promoting a culture of prevention and preparedness. The United Nations (UN) recognises the significance of this day, stressing the need for collaboration among governments, communities, and individuals to ensure the safety and well-being of people. The observance focuses on resilience-building measures, disaster risk management, and the importance of implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, a global blueprint for reducing disaster risks and losses.

The UN General Assembly declared IDDR in 1989, inspired by the devastating earthquake in Armenia in 1988. For New Zealanders, disaster reduction is highly relevant due to the country's geological and climatological predispositions to various hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, storms, and flooding. With a heightened vulnerability to natural disasters due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire and exposure to extreme weather events, it is imperative for New Zealand to adopt comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategies and integrate them into national policies and development plans.

In New Zealand, the IDDR is observed through various activities aimed at raising awareness and enhancing community preparedness and resilience. These initiatives include educational campaigns, workshops, and discussions that involve local authorities, civil society, and the general public. The activities encourage citizens to take proactive measures in protecting lives, property, and the environment from the impacts of disasters. International Day for Disaster Reduction usually takes place annually on 13th October.

Facts about Disaster Reduction

• The theme for International Day for Disaster Reduction in 2023 was Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessments to people by 2030.
• Reducing the economic losses from disasters has the power to transform lives and contribute greatly to the eradication of poverty. As we mark the International Day for Disaster Reduction, let us reaffirm our commitment to this vital endeavour - U.N Secretary-General, António Guterres
• According to the United Nations, every dollar invested in disaster risk reduction can save seven dollars in disaster aftermath.
• New Zealand is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and is hence prone to multiple disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunami, and floods.
• One of New Zealand's most significant efforts to reduce disaster risk is its advanced early warning systems for earthquakes and tsunamis. The country invests heavily in disaster preparedness, reinforcing its infrastructure, and promoting the importance of individual preparedness.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day for Disaster Reduction

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Work with your family to create or update an emergency plan that includes important contact information, evacuation routes, and emergency supplies you might need in case of a disaster.
• Put together an emergency kit with essential supplies like food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-operated radio. Ensure all items are organized and stored in a designated spot that is easily accessible during an emergency.