To make the efforts of the community, mobilized after disaster has struck, more effective, the local authority must at once set up a committee with the task of coordinating action to cope with the emergency. The committee takes stock of the consequences of the disaster and concerns itself with the essential problems:

Rescue operations: Where are there people to be rescued (collapsed buildings, places invaded by mud, isolated families, fires)? What means should be used?

Figure

Water: Is there water available? How can the water supply be ensured (tanker-trucks or other means of distributing water, urgent repair of the pre-existing water supply network, creation of new supply points)?

Shelter: Is temporary shelter needed for the victims of the disaster? How can it be provided (public buildings, tents, other means)? Food; Is there a shortage of food? What steps can be taken to ensure food supply (stocks on the spot, outside assistance) and distribution? Communications: What means of communication can be used (radio, telephone, other)?

Transport: What roads are practicable? By what means of transport? Do means of transport exist?

Gradually the Committee will organize itself to deal with the post-disaster period, assigning responsibilities in various fields:

· health,
· transport and highway maintenance; communications and information,
· water supply, food, means of survival,
· public works, building,
· sanitation,
· public order.