Experiences and Lessons from the Sichuan Earthquake

Abstract

Introduction:

The Wenchuan earthquake, which measured at 8.0 Richter scale, occurred on 12 May 2008 in Sichuan Province, China. Official figures state that 69,197 were killed, 374,176 were injured, and 18,222 were listed as missing. The effectiveness of national emergency preparedness and disaster response system after the earthquake was analyzed. The experiences and lessons were gained for further improvements.

Methods:

This paper describes what and how the search-and-rescue team and other facilities of different levels performed during disaster relief and reconstruction after the earthquake. The experience and lessons from the earthquake rescue are discussed.

Results:

There were well-organized contingency plans, but we were unable to follow the contingency plans due to the lack of practice. During huge disasters, too many departments were involved, and the collaboration became a problem. How can the precise, first-hand information to the government be provided to facilitate correct decision-making? The public doesn't know how to rescue themselves when facing a disaster. How to perform the disaster rescue more effectively? What to do to prevent epidemics? How to enhance international collaborations?

Conclusions:

We should be familiar with the plans and follow them stricdy by practicing regularly. The public should be educated about what to do during a disaster. A National Disaster Assessment Team should be organized. The professional disaster medical staff should have an extensive knowledge in medicine; they should have the capability to deal with the condition of resource shortage, and to cooperate with different people with different backgrounds. The best way to have a disaster medical team is to establish education and training facilities. For enhancing international cooperation, we should have more communication and practice to be better organized, only in that way, can we deal effectively during real situations.