Local Singapore

Mental preparedness key to disaster management: Expert

Wednesday, January 23, 2002

Singapore is well prepared for a natural disaster, according to a world expert on crisis management.

But emergency and disaster management expert Gunnar Kuepper warned Singapore was not immune from the threat of a terrorist attack.

He said being mentally prepared was the key.

Mr Kuepper praised Singapore's public alarm system, bomb shelters and regular emergency drills as some of the systems the island have in place.

Mr Kuepper's company played a key role in the days following the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.

He was brought in by the New York Police Department to co-ordinate rescue and recovery operations.

Now in Singapore, Mr Kuepper is sharing his insights with the Singapore Civil Defence and Police Force.

Although he found Singapore very advanced in its emergency management, he acknowledged that like other countries, the island is not immune from the threats of terrorism, especially bio-terrorism.

But instead of living in fear, he said everyone could help protect and enhance emergency services.

Mr Gunnar Kuepper, Chief of Operations, Emergency and Disaster Management Inc (USA), said: "It's very important that the public understand that they can play an important role. Basically if you see something wrong, or something suspicious, don't hesitate to call the authorities."

One main problem is getting back to normal after a disaster.

Mr Kuepper advises governmental agencies and private businesses to implement a continuity plan and back-up facilities.

He said that would ensure minimum disruption and continued operations even if a building is completely destroyed.

But at the end of the day, Mr Kuepper said mental preparedness was the key.

And that's something he believes can never begin too early in life, starting with drills and crisis management lessons in school.