The 1 thing you need to do right now to prepare for disaster

Renae Hanvin and Resilient Ready: doing disasters differently

Checking on your neighbours may be more effective flood preparation than stockpiling supplies, two disaster resilience experts say.

Renowned Northeastern University political scientist Professor Daniel Aldrich, who survived Cyclone Katrina with his family because a neighbour knocked on his door and told him to evacuate, says strengthening social bonds within communities (social capital) is the most crucial aspect of disaster resilience.

His research indicates that communities with strong social ties recover quicker and more effectively from disasters than those relying solely on physical infrastructure.

Professor Aldrich is collaborating with CEO of social enterprise Resilient Ready, Renae Hanvin, on a government-sponsored initiative to develop a national social capital and social infrastructure (the places where people meet to build those community relationships) measurement framework.

This groundbreaking project aims to quantify and enhance the social connections and communal spaces that bolster disaster resilience across Australia.

The framework focuses on three types of social capital: bonding (close relationships like family and friends), bridging (connections across diverse social groups) and linking (relationships between individuals and institutions).

By mapping these connections, the project seeks to identify strengths and gaps in community networks, providing a roadmap for building more resilient societies. 

Pilot programs are underway in South Australian communities, including Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, and Whyalla, where data is being collected to create heatmaps of social capital and infrastructure.

These tools will help local governments and organisations understand where to focus efforts to strengthen community ties. 

Professor Aldrich's work underscores that in times of crisis, it's the strength of our relationships, not just resources, that determines our ability to endure and recover.

“Communities that invest in social capital are better equipped to face disasters, as they can rely on mutual support, shared information and collective action rather than waiting passively for the government or emergency services to save them.”

Here’s three easy ways communities can prepare for future disasters:

·         Engage with your neighbours (at home and at work)

·         Participate in community events

·         Support local organisations

This information draws on the research of Professor Daniel Aldrich, currently in Australia working with Renae Hanvin and Resilient Ready to develop a National Social Capital and Social Infrastructure Measurement Framework, a world-first initiative funded by the Australian Government to better understand and strengthen the human networks that help communities connect, survive and thrive.