Officials in Colombia Launch Newest Phase of Successful PREPARE Program

The program aims to reduce the number of victims in future disasters by documenting risk factors and estimating possible risk scenarios, implementing disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies, developing tools to increase emergency response efficiency, and implementing participatory public awareness campaigns. The PREPARE II project, which concluded in October 2019, focused on capacity building and the development of tools to support disaster response efforts. Miyamoto International, in collaboration with the Municipality of Pasto's Disaster Risk Management Office, created a rapid damage assessment (RDA) guide, manual, training plan, and related procedures for municipal-level technical assistance in affected buildings after an earthquake. The project also generated a debris management strategy, including methodology for selection of debris deposit sites, identification of transportation routes, and a catalogue of resources and procedures. The PREPARE Pasto program will continue through 2020 and prioritize training and knowledge exchange among first responders and rescue teams. The program partners will also strengthen logistics and operational capabilities of the Pasto fire department. The program seeks to quickly meet the needs that arise during and after a seismic event, such as damage assessment, from which important information will determine an efficient response. The program has garnered interest from various stakeholders, including the Society of Engineers of Nariño, Chamber of Construction (CAMACOL), and the Government of Nariño. Director of the Pasto Disaster Risk Management Office, Darío Andrés Gómez, emphasized the importance of community work and public awareness in disaster response efforts. Captain Charles Benavides, Commander of the Pasto fire fighters, urged all entities to participate actively in the program, highlighting the need for collective preparedness and effective response to disasters. The PREPARE Pasto program aims to build on the success of PREPARE II and further reduce the social and economic impacts of earthquakes in Colombia. By strengthening community work, increasing emergency response efficiency, and promoting public awareness, the program seeks to save lives and mitigate the effects of disasters.