ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the concept of Geographic Information Systems for disaster preparedness, and by extension, GIS for disaster planning given the close connection between preparedness and planning. This chapter is presented as the first chapter to focus on each disaster cycle phase, as discussed in Chapter 4. In fact, you can see this chapter as “preparing” you for the chapters that follow, much in the same way GIS must first be prepared for other disaster cycle phases. For example, when a disaster event occurs, it is not the time to meet to make plans and establish operations such as acquiring essential base data layers, conducting GIS training, formulating data-sharing agreements with
other organizations, or running what-if scenarios. These types of activities must be done before an actual event occurs. Introducing new concepts, datasets, technologies, and ways of conducting disaster management activities during a disaster response can divert precious time, attention, and resources away from time-critical, pressing needs. Thus, it is essential that proper plans are in place before an event occurs.
