October 13th was designated International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction.
This day has been set by the United Nations since 1989.
This year the focus is on traditional systems of disaster vulnerability reduction.
According to Coordinator of the Office of Disaster Management, Don Corriette, “The theme is ‘Knowledge for Life’ and it concentrates on indigenous methods of disaster risk reduction.”
He listed several local methods like earth drains using Vetiver plants, contour drains, windbreaks and the use of conch shells as an early warning system.
“Indigenous technology but effective ways of addressing risk and reducing the risk of impact.”
According to the United Nations, many people around the world have lost their lives, homes and other property and have lost access to essential services as a result of natural disaster. Some disasters have caused economic damage to some countries. The UN acknowledges that education, training, and information exchanges are effective ways to help people become better equipped to withstand natural disasters.
Just recently Dominica was severely affected by Tropical Storm Erika.
As the focus this year is on traditional means of disaster management, Corriette lamented that unfortunately today’s society has moved away from these techniques to its own detriment.
He said, “Having listened to my deceased father and others his age, I think it’s reasonable to say that we have deviated from the natural processes to which we are accustomed, We see people cutting windbreaks for view and building roads through contours. We do not see the kinds of drainage systems which we used to before.”
Coriette acknowledged climate change issues adding to these challenges.
He says there are many lessons to be learnt from Tropical Storm Erika like proper waste disposal.
He says the Office of Disaster Management, in light of the theme for this year’s event, plans to implement a few initiatives.
At Bioche, a conch shell system is being set up along with a national early warning system.
“That will speak to all national events that could turn into disasters or emergencies.”
He is hoping that by the end of this year a new system indigenous to Dominica will be rolled out.