Nepal, Feb. 3 -- Community Disaster Management Committees (CDMCs), local volunteers, and task forces are the backbone for ensuring safety before, during, and after disasters. Before floods occur, they advocate preparedness plans that reflect community priorities, help raise awareness and work for early action. During disasters, they coordinate with local authorities to disseminate early warnings, help mobilize volunteers and support in search and rescue as well as response activities. Post-disasters, they help to keep a record of impacts, facilitate recovery and relief and also in rehabilitation.

In collaboration with the government agencies and development partners, CDMC identifies safe shelters and educates the community about them. Th...