Recovering from Disaster
Recovery after emergencies and disasters is the stage of rebuilding lives, restoring health, and ensuring the stability of communities in the UAE after natural disasters (such as heavy rains, floods, and sandstorms) or human disasters (such as industrial accidents or widespread power outages).
While the response focuses on protecting lives, the recovery phase aims to address the short- and long-term impacts on individuals, families, infrastructure, and mental and social health, while enhancing future resilience.
Understanding The Recovery Phase
The recovery phase begins as soon as the immediate danger has passed, and its effects may last for weeks, months, or more. This phase includes:
- Safe return to homes and buildings after confirming their validity through the Civil Defense
- Restoration of basic services and utilities (electricity, water, telecommunications, roads)
- Addressing physical and mental health needs in accordance with the recommendations of the UAE health authorities
- Repair or rebuild property in cooperation with the concerned authorities
- Financial Recovery and Livelihood Restoration
- Enhancing preparedness for future disasters and training on contingency plans
Personal Safety During Recovery
The UAE authorities advise against compromising safety measures, as many injuries occur after disasters while cleaning or returning home.
Safety Guidelines:- Return home only after the Civil Defense or local authorities announce the safety of buildings
- Stay away from floodwaters, rubble and unstable structures
- Do not touch damaged wires or electrical appliances
- Wear personal protective equipment (gloves, shoes, masks, protective clothing) while cleaning
- Beware of mold, contaminated water, and chemicals
Health & Medical Recovery
Disasters may affect the availability of health services or exacerbate chronic diseases.
Important Considerations:- Continue to take prescription medications and treatments
- Seek medical care when needed, through primary health care centers and local hospitals
- Adherence to personal hygiene to prevent infection
- Monitoring of respiratory diseases, especially in children, the elderly and patients with chronic diseases
- Comply with UAE Health Authorities
Mental Health & Emotional Support
It's normal to feel stressed, anxious, or sad after disasters.
Adaptation strategies:- Keeping in touch with family, friends, and community
- Stick to a daily routine as much as possible
- Reduce exposure to worrying news and use local official sources
- Expressing and Speaking Out
- Seek psychological support when needed, through psychological support lines or health centers
Residential & Property Recovery
Recovery may include providing temporary housing or repairing or rebuilding homes.
Basic Steps:- Document damage with photos and notes
- Not to enter the damaged buildings before being inspected by the Civil Defense
- Contacting local insurance companies
- Following safety guidelines during cleaning and repair
- Beware of unlicensed contractors
Financial & Social Recovery
Disasters affect income, work, and daily lifestyle.
Supportive Actions:- Apply for local emergency assistance or community support
- Benefiting from charities and volunteer initiatives
- Career or educational facilities if required
- Manage finances carefully during the recovery period
Community Recovery & Building Resilience
The UAE's inclusive community approach adopts the concept of collaboration between individuals, families, the private sector, voluntary associations, and government entities to promote recovery:
- Prioritizing the most vulnerable groups (elderly, people with disabilities, children)
- Leverage lessons to improve future contingency plans
- Building a more aware, collaborative, and resilient society
Preparing For future emergencies
The recovery phase is an opportunity to enhance preparedness for future disasters.
Suggested Steps:- Review and update your family and community emergency plan
- Prepare the emergency kit according to local guidelines
- Improving safety measures in homes and buildings
- Participation in community outreach programs and training courses