Disaster Management Unit

The DMU

The Disaster Management Unit is responsible for formulating, coordinating, and implementing strategies to effectively mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from a wide range of natural and man-made disasters within the Tunapuna/Piarco region, in conjunction with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), and other first responder agencies. Their primary objective include enhancing community resilience, minimizing the impact of disasters, and ensuring a coordinated and efficient response to emergencies.

Key Roles/Responsibility of Disaster Management Unit:

  • Collaboration and Coordination: The Disaster Management Unit collaborates closely with various such as the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), Fire Services (TTFS), Police Services (TTPS), Defense Force, Emergency Health Services, and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) to review and design plans for managing emergencies in Communities within the region.
  • Public Awareness and Education: Promoting public awareness and education is a key component of the department’s work. It disseminates information about potential hazards, safety measures, evacuation procedures, and available resources, empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions during emergencies in collaboration with other agencies.
  • Research and Development: The department conducts research to enhance disaster management practices, utilizing advancements in technology and data analysis to improve preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. It also stays updated on evolving trends in disaster scenarios to adapt its strategies accordingly.
  • Response and Recovery: In the event of a disaster, the department coordinates a rapid and well-organized response, mobilizing resources and coordinating efforts among various agencies. It manages emergency operations centers, establishes communication systems, and facilitates the distribution of essential resources to affected areas. Additionally, the department plays a crucial role in orchestrating post-disaster recovery efforts, helping communities rebuild and return to normalcy.
  • Risk Assessment and Mitigation: The department conducts comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities within a region. By analyzing these risks, it develops mitigation plans and strategies aimed at reducing the impact of disasters on communities, infrastructure, and the environment.

Departments

Building Inspectorate
Communication
L.E.D.
Public Health
Procurement
Technical/Transport
Municipal Police

disaster management cycle

Disaster Management Cycle removebg

Mitigation

Meaning: To prevent future emergencies and take steps to minimize their effects

01

Preparedness

Meaning: A set of actions that are taken as precautionary measures in the face of potential disasters.

02

Response

Meaning: To protect people and property in the wake of an emergency, disaster, or crisis

03

Recovery

Meaning: To rebuild after a disaster in an effort to return operations back to normal

04

Disaster Level

  • Level I – Falls within the Capacity of the Regional Corporation.
  • Level II – Requires assistance relief efforts from more than municipality and the Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force.
  • Level III – The President declares a National Emergency. Assistance is requested of regional and international bodies.

Types of Disasters Incidents

  • Flooding
  • Fallen Trees
  • Blown off Roofs
  • Landslides
  • Fire
  • Man-made Hazards
  • Earthquakes

The TPRC DMU:

  • Maps incidents within the municipality.
  • Maps at risk communities such as homes for the differently abled, schools and senior citizens homes.
  • Conducts Damage and Needs Assessment post-incident.
  • Conducts Public Awareness and Education Campaigns.
  • Co-ordinates disaster response and relief efforts.

emergency hotline contact

odpm 511/800-odpm

police 999

ambulance 811

fire 990

CONTACT INFORMATION

800-TPRC