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Disaster-Ready Mapúans: A Look Into Mapúa University’s DRR Protocols and Plans

Disaster-Ready Mapúans: A Look Into Mapúa University’s DRR Protocols and Plans
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Disaster, often worsened by climate, threatens lives, health and even the daily work of people. Consequently, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) not only saves lives but reduces the damage it will have on our community. Moreover, education plays a big role in DRR as this helps spread awareness by empowering people with knowledge and skills to reduce the risk, minimize damage and maintain social and economic stability.

Flood

Flood RisksDisaster Preparedness Measures During a Flood
  • During the rainy season when floods are very common, one should be extra cautious of the health risks brought by flooding.
  • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), flooding or “baha” can increase the prevalence of communicable diseases which can be water or vector-borne.
  • WHO explains that water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, and leptospirosis are brought by water contamination. The incidents of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and yellow fever increase due to standing water that serves as breeding sites for mosquitoes.
  • Other risks include tuberculosis, HIV, gastrointestinal infections like diarrhea, tetanus from bacteria in soil or feces, and hypothermia for children exposed to floodwaters.
  • If the local authorities advise or order for you to leave, you must leave immediately.
  • Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters.
  • Always be informed and updated with news on TV or radios.
  • Avoid electrical devices, especially when near water.
  • If water starts rising, move to the roof and call for help.

Earthquake

Earthquake RisksDisaster Preparedness Measures for Earthquakes
  • Ground Displacement – Earthquakes can cause the ground to shift along faults. Structures built across faults may be seriously damaged or torn apart during such displacement.
  • Fire – Fires may result from broken gas or power lines, or tipped-over stoves. In the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, broken water lines prevented firefighting, causing the city to burn for three days and displacing 250,000 people.
  • Flooding – Earthquakes can rupture dams or levees, leading to flooding that damages buildings and can result in drowning.
  • During an earthquake, DROP, COVER, and HOLD or stay in a safer part of the building.
  • Avoid using elevators during strong ground shaking.
  • Stay calm and alert throughout the event.
  • If outside, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
  • Avoid standing near heavy or unstable objects.
  • Do not run outside while the ground is shaking.
  • If inside a moving vehicle, come to a safe stop and remain inside.

Fire

Fire RisksDisaster Preparedness Measures for Fire
  • Fire: A fire can spread easily, sometimes doubling its size in a matter of seconds.
  • When a fire is discovered, it is critical to evacuate quickly to avoid wounds or loss of life.
  • A fire can give off incredible amounts of heat. A fire in a room can range from 100 to 1,200 degrees — from floor level to ceiling.
  • Skin can suffer permanent injuries at temperatures as low as 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • As soon as you hear a fire alarm, drop everything and head to the nearest fire exit.
  • Check for smoke under the door. If the door is hot, do not open it. If it's cold, open it slowly and exit quickly.
  • Know how to use a fire extinguisher using the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep side to side.
  • Stay low, crawling while covering your mouth to avoid inhaling smoke.
  • If clothes catch fire, STOP, DROP, and ROLL.

Mapúa DRR Framework

In Mapúa University, both Intramuros and Makati Campus, has implemented different policies, protocols, and plans to ensure that students, faculty, and staff are prepared for various types of disasters. These measures include regular earthquake and fire drills, the establishment of designated evacuation areas, and the dissemination of emergency response procedures through orientations and digital platforms.

Mapúa University also integrates disaster risk awareness into its curriculum and student activities, ensuring that the community is not only informed but also capable of responding effectively during emergencies. By fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience, the university demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding its members and contributing to the broader goals of disaster risk reduction.

Evacuation Procedures and Routes on Campus

An evacuation procedure always requires modification due to different types of circumstances during a disaster that sometimes requires schools’ to have evacuation drills. The exits in Mapua University Makati are College School entrance and Senior High School entrance while the exits in Mapua University Intramuros are the entrance and exit. Common Guidelines Include:

  • Check if all students have evacuated
  • Collect updated class lists
  • Guide and stay with students
  • Form a line while exiting
  • Know nearest exits
  • Avoid running or pushing

In times of crisis, access to accurate and reliable emergency contact numbers can be a life-saving resource. Below is a compiled list of essential hotlines from government agencies and disaster response units. Be sure to save these numbers and share them with friends, family, and fellow Mapúans to ensure quick response during emergencies.

Mapúa Emergency Contacts Part 1Mapúa Emergency Contacts Part 2

Conclusion

Disaster Risk Reduction is a way to teach people both elderly and children a way to survive during a crisis. It raises self awareness and helps them understand how to stay safe during emergencies. DRR encourages active participation in emergency drills in emergency drills, which enforces key procedures, builds confidence and ensures that students know how to react quickly and effectively during said disasters. This approach helps create a sense of preparedness within the school community.

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