Disasters can strike unexpectedly, but many are predictable. Would you know what to do in a crisis like a wildfire or flood? Whether natural or man-made, disasters have been a fact of life since dinosaurs walked the earth. Today, financial crises, political instability, diseases, wars, and climate change are all taking their toll.
In 2023 alone, more than 86,000 people lost their lives to natural disasters. Catastrophes such as floods, droughts, wildfires, wars, earthquakes, and hurricanes displaced millions of people, causing untold suffering. The need for disaster preparedness has never been greater.
We can all play a part in helping those affected:
- Support frontline charities with regular donations if you can afford it.
- Become a blood donor to help those most in need in your community.
- If you are a business or community leader, implement disaster preparedness policies.
- Make peace, justice, and equality a priority in your sphere of influence. Peace and stability boost community resilience and recovery from disasters.
- Sign up for an organ donation register if available where you live, giving others the gift of life.
Fiona R. has witnessed the impact of blood donations firsthand. “My husband needed multiple blood transfusions, and it was incredible to see his transformation. He was dying in front of my eyes, but with the transfusions, life was literally returning to his body. We are so grateful to everyone who donates blood – you have no idea how many lives you may be saving!”
Usually, the first responders in a crisis come from within the affected community. Rather than leaving it to professionals or waiting for external help, empower yourself and your community with free training starting today. Alison’s Disaster Preparedness courses can equip you to play your part:
Free Crisis Management Courses
Do you know what to do in the event of a natural disaster such as an earthquake? What if a serious incident caused injuries to people around you? These free courses cover key areas for anyone facing natural or man-made disasters, including war. Whether you plan to work in international disaster relief or simply want to help build community resilience, these courses are packed with life-saving information. Register for your free account and begin learning today.
- Wildfire Awareness and Risk Assessment – Learn about different types of wildfires, where they are likely to occur, and how to prepare. This course also covers safety guidelines, minimizing hazards, and what to do in the aftermath of a wildfire.
- Earthquake Precautions and Safety Measures – Discover how to prepare for an earthquake with training for a range of scenarios. Learn how to handle aftershocks and respond effectively.
- The Basics of Nuclear Survival – This course covers what to do before, during, and after an attack, including simple steps to stay safe. It also addresses fallout management and post-incident recovery. As Alison graduate Bella O. testifies: “Super easy to understand, and you learn so much from it. I loved it!”
Master First Aid
Emergencies can strike at any time, and being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. These first aid courses equip you with vital skills to respond to crises effectively. For community leaders, they also provide tools to train others and strengthen preparedness.
- CPR, AED and First Aid – Gain vital skills with this certified Save a Life course by NHCPS. Learn first-aid kit essentials, personal protective equipment (PPE), scene safety, and how to handle common medical emergencies, injuries, and choking. Empower yourself to save lives today.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – Follow the latest 2020-2025 guidelines in basic life support and become NHCPS certified. Learn to check for responsiveness, use automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and provide care for adults, children, and infants. Topics include mouth-to-mask and mouth-to-mouth ventilation, as well as team-based rescue approaches.
- First Aid: A Comprehensive Guide to Saving Lives – Master life-saving skills, from responding to environmental emergencies like hypothermia and heat stroke to treating allergic reactions, poisonings, bites, and stings. Learn to manage traumatic injuries, including burns, fractures, and bleeding. Enroll today to begin this certified Save a Life course.
With more than 4,500 free courses, Alison offers a wealth of training in topics useful during a crisis, from nursing to public health, food safety, and hygiene. Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Start learning today and be ready for anything!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What should I include in an emergency kit?
A. A basic emergency kit should include:
- Water (at least one gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food (canned goods, dried fruits, energy bars)
- First aid supplies (bandages, pain relievers, medications)
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- A whistle
- Moist wipes, garbage bags, and plastic sheeting
- Important documents (copies of identification, insurance, and medical records)
- A list of emergency contacts
- A map of the local area
Q. How can I make my home more disaster-resistant?
A. Look up advice specific to your local area. The following guidelines may be useful:
- Secure furniture: Fasten shelves, cabinets, and appliances to the walls to prevent them from toppling over during an earthquake.
- Trim trees and shrubs around your home: This reduces the risk of damage from falling branches during storms.
- Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms: Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed.
- Reinforce windows and doors: Consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows.
- Clean gutters and drains: Prevent water damage by ensuring proper drainage around your home.
Q. Are Alison’s Disaster Management courses accredited?
A. All Alison courses are accredited by the independent UK body CPD. Many can prepare learners for industry exams. Read more here.
Q. Can I access the courses on my mobile device?
A. Yes, Alison courses are designed for flexibility and accessibility. Download the app to easily access and complete courses on your smartphone or tablet.
Main image by Royal Academy of Engineering; Nurse image by Geralt; Wildfire image by Steve PB; CPR image Manseok Kimall, all on Pixabay
