Introduction


Major emergencies and disasters have occurred throughout history and, as the world’s population grows and resources become more limited, communities are increasingly vulnerable to the hazards that cause disasters.  Statistics gathered since 1969 show a rise in the number of people affected by disasters.  However, since there is little evidence that the actual events causing disasters are increasing in either intensity or frequency, it can only be concluded that vulnerability to disasters is growing.

Emergencies and disasters do not affect only health and well-being; frequently, large numbers of people are displaced, killed or injured, or subjected to greater risk of epidemics.  Considerable economic harm is also common with insured losses rising each year.  This has led to a restructuring of the insurance industry, with the insured parties bearing more costs.  Uninsured and economic losses are creating immense burdens on affected communities, economics, and governments.  Clearly, neither communities nor government can afford to wait for emergencies and disasters to occur before responding to them.

 
Notch Hill Wildfire 2009

 
 For more information please contact:
Shuswap Emergency Program
Direct Line: (250) 833-5927
Fax: (250) 832-1083
Email:  sep@csrd.bc.ca