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When disasters strike, many of us contribute to relief programs by donating money or volunteering locally. But others, who find such efforts too passive, want to head to the affected area and assist victims directly.
The decision to travel to a disaster zone isn't one that should be taken without first considering the complexities of the situation. Here are some issues to think about if you're looking to get involved in a disaster response firsthand.
What's the True Cost?
Volunteering to respond at the crisis scene isn't free. The cost associated with transporting you to the area may ultimately be a poor allocation of valuable resources, especially if you end up sapping scarce supplies once you arrive. You may be able to make a greater contribution at home by steering the combined efforts of your coworkers, church, union or any other groups you belong to.
Is Going It Alone the Best Way?
Individuals with special knowledge and skills can plug short-term holes in relief efforts. But soon after a disaster, individual responders can lead to a duplication of efforts. If you have local knowledge or special skills, a relief agency will likely be able to incorporate you into its relief effort. Although you may confront some initial bureaucracy, you will likely be more effective for a longer period by joining a larger effort that has a dedicated team to support you.
Are You Physically Prepared?
Despite your best intentions, your presence may compound the problems in the disaster area. Why? Disaster areas usually suffer a severe breakdown in the supply of food, water, medicine and shelter. Likewise, you may need special clothing, transport and other equipment just to get to and stay in the affected region. Disease can spread quickly, and you are likely to need immunizations or emergency medication for malaria, cholera, dengue, yellow fever, gastroenteritis, dysentery and other illnesses. Because disaster areas can also be scenes of crimes of desperation and violent conflict, you must consider your personal security. Finally, disaster responders often put in long shifts with little rest, so your physical fortitude and health are important considerations.
Are You Emotionally Prepared?
Disaster survivors who have lost their homes, possessions and loved ones, or who have witnessed acts of violence and degradation, are likely to suffer feelings of anguish, anger, remorse and pain; they may also exhibit symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. If you aren't emotionally prepared for the overwhelming stress of working in a disaster area, you may experience many of these emotional conditions yourself.
Action Without Borders/idealist.org created a resource for aid workers that helps them prepare for the special stress of field work. If you do head to the field, monitor your emotional well-being as well as that of your fellow relief workers. The ability to remain emotionally stable in trying circumstances is crucial to the success of the relief effort.
Are You Legally Prepared?
Consider the legal regime of the country where the disaster has occurred. Do you need a passport or visa to enter the country? Will authorities allow you into the affected region? Will you need documentation to prove your qualifications as a relief worker? The chaotic images you see of the disaster area may be quite localized, so without the right papers and permissions, you may never even get close to it.
Is Now the Best Time to Go?
Because victims need assistance long after the disaster's immediate aftermath, you may be far more effective as a long-haul volunteer rather than as a first responder. By waiting a bit to volunteer, the more immediate challenges facing first responders will be less of an issue for you. Plus, the extra time will allow you to improve your knowledge of the local language and customs.
Make no mistake: Volunteering in a disaster zone is dangerous, stressful work in often extreme environments. Many people aren't prepared to work with disaster victims or cope with the many challenges of even a short time spent in an affected area. We highlight these concerns not to discourage you from getting involved in a disaster relief effort, but rather to encourage you to get involved in a way that's most suited to your abilities. Think carefully about how you can best assist the victims, and then act.