ABSTRACT
Natural disasters provide a constant reminder of the power and capricious nature of the planet. A breakdown of communication is inevitable and can be accompanied by widespread panic and disruption of civil order. Access to the disaster area may be limited because of the destruction of bridges, affecting road and rail links. Good communication is critical for the authorities to respond quickly to a disaster. The first objective in disaster management is an assessment of the damage and the number of casualties. All sources of information must be employed. The next step is mobilisation of human and material resources appropriate to the extent of the disaster. Disasters act like a magnet for the media. In today's world of 24-hour news coverage, this plays an important part in shaping public opinion. All methods of triage use simple criteria based on vital signs.
