Last month, I attended the Local Government Managers Australia National Congress and had the opportunity to make a presentation about how to reconstruct a community after a disaster, using the Earthquake and Tsunami of 11 March 2011 as a case study.
Japanese municipalities have a primary responsibility for disaster management. Mayors have the right and duty to issue evacuation orders, help and support the victims and operate the shelters.
In my presentation, I discussed some tips about disaster management for local government executives.
The most important point I stressed is pre-preparedness. Ask if you are ready, know what to do immediately following a disaster, and have reliable people in charge.
My presentation slides are at the link below:
If you are interested in my presentation, I am happy to talk about Japanese disaster management and recovery with your council staff.