Recovering from Disaster

Introduction

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

Official References & Sources

U.A.E

Trusted International Sources

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