The Disaster Cycle

The Disaster Cycle is a model that helps communities and systems organize their efforts before, during, and after a disaster. Understanding each phase ensures that care is not only reactive but also proactive. This saves lives, preserves health systems, and builds resilience.

 

Circular disaster cycle diagram with four stages: Response, Recovery, Mitigation, Preparedness; Pediatric Pandemic Network lo



Phase
Purpose
Examples

Response
  • Saves lives
  • Prevent further damage
  • Implement a system for triage.
  • Continue patient care in alternative areas if needed
  • Establish telemedicine services.
  • Serve with the medical reserve corps.

Recovery
  • Return to normal or new normal
  • Provide routine/catch up vaccinations
  • Monitor emotional/mental health
  • Counsel families how to talk about disasters with children in an age-appropriate manner

Mitigation
  • Prevent/limit possibility of disaster
  • Reduce damage from inevitable disaster
  • Reduce future harm
  • Creating early warning systems.
  • Building flood walls.
  • Purchasing appropriate insurance.
  • Preventative healthcare

Preparedness
  • Develop plans and processes for disaster response
  • Develop policies/procedures for your workplace.
  • Conduct exercises and drills.
  • Gather and store resources and supplies.
  • Creating an emergency preparedness kit.
  • Counsel children and families in a clinic on disaster preparedness.



Disaster response isn't the responsibility of one person or organization. It’s a coordinated effort that depends on every aspect of the system working together. From clinical staff to logistics teams to community educators, everyone plays a vital role. 

 
What role can you play in each phase of the disaster cycle?
 

References:

Written by Dennis Ren

Last updated: 5/30/2025

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