Disaster Preparedness

In the ten years following Hurricane Mitch, Honduras has made significant progress in disaster preparedness and assistance.  The Honduran Emergency Preparation Commission (COPECO) is equipped and trained in disaster management and preparedness at the local, regional, and national level.

USAID provides technical assistance and training in communication systems and evacuation plans to strengthen COPECO’s leadership in disaster preparedness. USAID has also helped establish a national risk management system to promote a disaster preparedness culture throughout Honduras.  USAID provides training and equipment to strengthen local emergency committees in high risk areas, including the establishment of emergency plans of action nationwide. 

USAID also trains the fire departments and the Red Cross in advanced first aid and advanced search-and-rescue from collapsed structures in case of disaster.  It collaborates closely with the National Teachers University to incorporate risk management into curricula.  In addition, it trains members from the Ministry of Education as facilitators in risk management, so they can incorporate this element into the elementary school’s curriculum.  USAID helps COPECO and local governments to expand training for at-risk youth in disaster preparedness.

In dealing with disaster preparedness, USAID coordinates with a large number of international and local non government organizations to work in risk management, including training local and community emergency committees, providing essential communications and rescue equipment, and preparing risk maps and contingency plans should disaster strike again.