A critical part of handling any serious emergency situation is in the management of the Disaster Recovery Phase. By definition, the Disaster Recovery Phase is likely to involve, to a significant degree, external emergency services. Priorities during this phase include:
Safety and well-being of the employees and other involved persons
Minimization of the emergency itself
Removal or minimization of the threat of further injury or damage and the re-establishment of external services such as power, communications, water etc.
A significant task during this phase is also the completion of Damage Assessment Forms. In addition to the emergency services, the Disaster Recovery Phase may involve different personnel and contractors depending upon the type of emergency and a Disaster Recovery Team should be nominated according to the requirements of each specific crisis.
The Stafford Act
The Stafford Act (PDF) was designed to bring an orderly and systemic means of federal disaster assistance for state and local governments in carrying out their responsibilities to aid citizens.
The act was designed to encourage states and localities to:
Develop comprehensive disaster preparedness plans
Prepare for better intergovernmental coordination in the face of a disaster
Encourage the use of insurance coverage
Provide federal assistance programs for losses due to a disaster
Recovering from Disaster
Recovering from a major emergency or disaster is usually a gradual process. It can be a scary, stressful, and painful time for all involved. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has put together a guidebook to help you. It covers everything from providing for the health and safety of your family to returning home, seeking assistance, and coping.