Disaster Preparedness

Reliance Foundation strengthens community preparedness for disasters through enhanced early warning systems, anticipatory action and localised risk reduction efforts. Using GIS, digital platforms and a multi-channel communication approach, we ensure timely dissemination of alerts, especially to vulnerable communities.

Our early warning programme equips communities with predictive insights and critical information, enabling them to take informed action ahead of disasters and minimise loss of life, assets and livelihoods.

Early Warning and Anticipatory Action

Leveraging Geographic Information Systems and digital platforms, Reliance Foundation enhances early warning efforts from risk assessment to communication and response planning. Our strength lies in the ability to reach large numbers of vulnerable people through multiple digital and physical channels.

GIS-driven predictive analysis helps identify risks and supports anticipatory actions. This enables timely advisories and targeted communication that aid communities in preparing effectively for impending hazards.

Capacity Development

Reliance Foundation is building resilient communities by strengthening capacities to withstand and respond to disasters. We are developing a cadre of trained community volunteers skilled in first aid, search and rescue, public health risk management and livestock protection. Communities are supported to develop disaster preparedness plans, and regular mock exercises are conducted with local administration.

Our capacity development initiatives include creating repositories for public health risk communication, training master trainers and community cadres on WASH-focused public health management in emergencies, and integrating gender-responsive approaches including Menstrual Hygiene Management during disasters. ASHA and Anganwadi workers, along with women leaders, participate extensively in these initiatives.

For livestock protection, preparedness modules include Livestock Emergency Guidelines and Standards (LEGS), Animal-Centric Technological Interventions in Emergencies (ACTIE), early warning systems, handling and feeding practices, and zoonotic disease management. Trainers from the Veterinary Emergency Response Unit of the Animal Husbandry Department also contribute to these efforts.

School Safety

Reliance Foundation supports safer schools by involving teachers, students and parents in developing and implementing School Disaster Management Plans. Training programmes are conducted for teachers and School Management Committees, followed by preparation of school safety plans and mock drills.

Training of Trainers sessions have been conducted for teachers across 51 schools in Assam, Bihar, Gujarat and Odisha. These cover core concepts of school safety, HVCR assessment tools, structural and non-structural safety, roles of School Safety Committees, management of schools as relief centres, and integration of school plans with local government disaster management plans.

Following the ToTs, School Disaster Management Plans have been developed. Mock exercises involving around 700 students were conducted in collaboration with State Disaster Response Force Assam, Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, District Disaster Management Authority, and the District Education Department, Bhuj.