Previous Story
EMO adviser: Terrorism is major concern in disaster preparedness
|
Posted on Sep 01 2008
It is not just about tsunamis, storms, pandemic flu and other contagious diseases. The threat of international terrorism is also one of the major aspects in disaster preparedness, according to the new adviser for the CNMI Emergency Management Office.
Dr. Ken Shankweiler says all members of the community, including businesses, workers and families, must be aware of the dangers posed by terrorist attacks.
Shankweiler said one could never predict with precision when terrorists will strike but a strong partnership between government and the private sector in disaster preparedness could make a big difference.
“We want businesses a vital part of it because in the past only the government agencies are involved,” said Shankweiler said that EMO is preparing several activities in connection with the Disaster Preparedness Month this month.
He said that it is no longer the work of just the Division of Public Safety or the EMO or airport personnel; “disaster preparedness needs a coordinated effort.”
However, compared to the U.S. mainland, the CNMI has done a better job in disaster preparedness and prevention due to a simpler system, he said.
He pointed out that too much bureaucracy makes the U.S. disaster preparedness and response systems more difficult to handle.
