Early warning supports DRC at country level and global level to better identify why, where and when crises and disasters are likely to occur. Early warning is an integral part of good emergency response preparedness that involves an analysis of contextual humanitarian risks to identify the hazards that could trigger a crisis. Through the process of continuous monitoring we can obtain information about the changing dynamic of risks at country or regional level. This allows DRC to address the risks, build resilience and preparedness by contingency planning and better respond to emergencies through rapid and well-coordinated early action to mitigate the impact of the crisis.
How to implement
An emergency risk analysis should be undertaken by all DRC country operations to identify the risks that could trigger a crisis and rank them by impact and likelihood. The emergency risk analysis generates early warning information, which DRC can use at country, regional and global level to make contingency plans and take preparedness actions to address specific risks.
Emergency Focal Points (EFP) across DRC operations should constantly monitor the situation on the ground using the links below, following national news outlets, and keeping up to date on key events that have the potential to develop into a humanitarian crisis. In high risk areas, the emergency risk analysis matrix should be updated on a quarterly basis and reviewed at quarterly meetings before submission to the Regional Office. In lower risk areas, it is to be revisited yearly as part of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Planning (EPRP) process prior to the Annual Review. Outside of this schedule, in all locations the emergency risk analysis must be updated should any contextual changes occur and in the case of significant deterioration, the EPRP must be revised.
The Regional Office will maintain an overview of relevant DRC country operations’ risk status and monitor whether these are increasing or decreasing. Countries that have a high and increasing risk ranking should be flagged, along with an assessment of the readiness of the associated EPRP preparedness action plans, and with a recommendation for further action and support where it is required. The HQ Emergency Unit is ready and available to support country and regional offices with this process where required.
MANDATORY ACTIONS
1. Complete an emergency risk analysis yearly through the EPRP process or quarterly in high risk areas
2. EFPs monitor the situation and review the emergency risk analysis throughout the year, updating it when required, and sharing with the Regional Office.
3. The Regional Office (Regional Emergency Coordinator or similar) maintains a regional overview, monitors and flags to management those operations with high or increasing risk status.
Links
Annexes
Emergency Risk Analysis template
Questions?
Contact the HQ Emergency Unit: [email protected]