Disaster Risk Management - Preparedness & Response
Disasters can’t always be prevented, but with the right preparation and response, their impact can be reduced—PRCS works with communities across Palau to build resilience and provide timely support when emergencies occur.
The Palau Red Cross Society (PRCS) supports communities across the Republic of Palau before, during, and after disasters. We respond to emergencies such as typhoons, floods, and fires by deploying trained volunteers to conduct rapid assessments and provide immediate relief to affected families.
Our work goes beyond emergency response. PRCS actively partners with communities to identify risks, strengthen preparedness, and reduce the impact of disasters—helping build safer, more resilient communities.
Red Cross Disaster Action Teams (RDATs)
Established in 2018, the Red Cross Disaster Action Teams (RDATs) are community-based volunteers representing all 16 states of Palau. Members are selected by their State Governors and include state workers, community group members, and active local leaders.
PRCS provides training in collaboration with key partners such as the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO), the Ministry of Health & Human Services (MHHS), and other relevant agencies. These partnerships ensure RDAT members are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed during emergencies.
RDAT volunteers are often the first on the ground when disasters occur. Their role is to:
Conduct initial damage and needs assessments
Provide accurate and timely information
Guide affected individuals to the appropriate services and support
While RDATs are not primary emergency responders, they play a vital role in connecting communities with the right agencies and resources, ensuring a coordinated and effective response.
Role of RDATs
When a disaster strikes, help may not arrive right away. Roads can be blocked, power may be out, and access to basic supplies can be limited. Having a disaster kit prepared ensures that you and your family can stay safe, comfortable, and self-sufficient during the first critical hours or days.
A well-prepared kit allows you to respond quickly, reduces stress during emergencies, and helps protect the health and safety of your household. Whether facing a typhoon, flood, or fire, being prepared at home is one of the most important steps you can take.
Be Prepared: Build Your Disaster Kit
Disaster kits come in all sizes. Build one that best fits your household’s needs and lifestyle.
Basic Essentials
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food (at least 3 days supply)
- Mess kits, paper plates, and plastic utensils
Emergency Tools
- Battery-powered radio
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Multipurpose tool
- Whistle
Health & Hygiene
- First aid kit
- Moist towelettes or baby wipes
- Garbage bags and gloves
- Personal care items (toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene, tissue, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Insect repellent
Important Items
- Copies of important documents (passport, SS card, birth certificates, etc.)
Additional Needs
- Medications and medical supplies
- Blankets
- Items for children, elderly, or pets
What to do, in an Emergency
Watch this video to learn the key steps to take during an emergency and how to keep yourself and your family safe.
Single-Incident Emergency (SIE) Response Program
If your family has been affected by an unexpected emergency, the Palau Red Cross Society is here to help.
The Palau Red Cross Society (PRCS) affirms its mandate to serve as an auxiliary, humanitarian relief organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations. One of the ways PRCS fulfills this role is through the Single-Incident Emergency (SIE) Assistance Program.
This program provides immediate and temporary support to households affected by sudden disasters or emergencies. SIEs, by their nature, occur without warning and can have devastating effects on the livelihood of a family. PRCS is committed to responding promptly to each reported case.
Requests for assistance may be received through walk-ins, phone calls, or referrals. Once a case is reported, the PRCS team conducts an assessment with the head of household to determine eligibility. Based on this assessment, appropriate assistance is provided.
Whenever possible, beneficiaries are also linked to other PRCS programs, external services, or family networks for longer-term support and recovery.
→If you or someone you know needs SIE assistance, please contact the Palau Red Cross Society today.
