Emergency Relief Companies Fill Critical Needs During Disasters

Natural disasters can occur anywhere at any time, causing millions of dollars damage and displacing thousands of people. When a disaster hits, emergency response teams are dispatched to the affected area and, more often than not, an emergency relief company will be employed to assist government agencies.

Responding to a Disaster

Typically, first responders will secure the disaster area, conduct evacuation and rescue, provide medical care, and perform crowd control to ensure the safety of those in the area. Once a governor has declared a state emergency, government emergency teams will come in and provide an initial assessment and aid.

Meeting Basic Needs

Based on this assessment and the impact of the disaster, certain needs must be addressed and taken care of quickly. These usually include food, safe water, shelter, medical care, sanitation, waste disposal, and essential comfort items.

Providing Essential Services

Emergency relief or disaster management companies play a key role in filling these needs. They are able to provide additional services and resources that state or local government might lack. They can also assist by adding a level of safety and comfort that is crucial in helping people cope with a disaster.

For example, most emergency relief companies are capable of bringing in and setting up hand washing stations; potable water and gray water vehicles; mobile shower, laundry, medical, and sleeping units; mobile restrooms; and food catering services. They employ personnel who are trained in the proper use of these resources and experienced in working in disaster conditions.

Tallying the Costs

There has been an increase in the number of disasters in the United States over the past several years. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 16 natural disasters accounted for 3,278 deaths and around $306 billion in 2017, a record year for natural disasters in the U.S. Given the scale and complexity of today’s disasters and the loss they incur, the need for emergency relief companies becomes more significant.