Leveraging on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Effective Emergency Response Management

摘要

Global climate change and worldwide instabilities have affected urban areas. In spite of all the technological advances, the impacts of natural and manmade disasters in urban areas represent an increasing challenge - therefore effective mitigation and emergency response strategies are pivotal. An effective and efficient Emergency Response Management System (ERMS) for natural or manmade disasters in urban areas has been proposed. The ERMS includes vulnerability assessment, damage prediction, ERMS simulation, situation analysis, damage assessment and resource allocation which require real-time data, analysis, visual modeling and monitoring systems. Advanced interactive capabilities of data capture, data management, analysis, modeling visualization, and real-time data exchange has made Geographic Information Systems (GIS) an effective information system for emergency response management. Increases to higher quality, real-time data coupled with easier connectivity between GIS and new communication technologies such as mobile and satellite phones, real time tracking systems and increased worldwide internet connectivity promotes the rapid improvement of emergency response. The paper presents a GIS web-based interactive ERMS system that can be applied to many kinds of disasters across numerous environments. This system would be helpful for an ERM team to take proactive measures for effective emergency response planning and management by providing timely and valuable information. Professionals need to make informed decisions during a disaster response situation; this system will help them through real-time tracking and effective communication for effective emergency response management. Hence, this study is valuable for all professionals involved with disaster management.