Disaster Education, Communication and Engagement (ECE)

This blog aims to share good practices and ideas in disaster education, communication and engagement (ECE).

I have qualifications in earth science and education and over 40 years of experience in ECE research and practice, the last 14 years specialising in disaster ECE. The outputs of some of my work in disaster ECE can be accessed at this site.

I am a Principal at Molino Stewart, an Australian environment and natural hazards consultancy, and have successfully completed numerous disaster ECE projects for emergency agencies across Australia. These projects include:

the development of disaster ECE plans and programs tailored for communities
design and implementation of community engagement plans for flood risk management
research into community participation in emergency management planning
evaluation of disaster ECE programs run by emergency service providers
evaluation of warning systems and public information after disasters
facilitation of disaster management meetings and workshops
research into disaster management for school education
preparation of kits and guides for people and businesses to assess their risks and prepare for hazards
design of early warning systems for communities that include tailored and relevant communication methods, and supporting prior community education
training in best practices in disaster ECE
research into learning for disaster resilience.

I have spoken internationally at conferences and meetings on these themes. I am a member of the International Advisory Board of the Centre for Water, Communities and Resilience at the University of the West of England. I am also a Regional Director of The International Emergency Management Society (TIEMS).

– Neil Dufty