CSS 415: DISASTER RECOVERY

INTRODUCTION

Disaster according to Wikipedia “A disaster is a serious disruption, occurring over a relatively short time, of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic or environmental loss and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources”. Over the years, the world has experienced different forms and dimensions of disaster, ranging from natural to man-made incidents. In effect, there have been cases of tsunami of varying magnitudes, hurricanes, earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, fire explosions, nuclear accidents, and the like. It is therefore safe to say not all disasters are preventable but the impact of all occurrences of disaster can be reduced.

Disasterrecoveryinvolves the processes, policies, and procedures necessary for the recovery of operations and the continuation of the critical functions of an organization after a disaster. Records show that 280,000 Nigerians were in one way or the other affected by one or more disasters in 2001; also, more than 183,000 people were displaced, about 3,683 injured and 1,099 died as a result of emergency incidents in 2003 (Ndace 2008, p.17).

Therefore, it is expedient for any country, organization or body hoping for stability and progress to have in place a disaster response plan for the purpose of a recovery after any occurrence of disaster.