PRCS Holds a Workshop in Salfit on Planning for Emergencies

Salfit- PRCS held a two-day workshop on planning for emergencies and disaster management in which took part 90 participants from various civil and security governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations and local authorities. The workshop was held at the Martyr Shastry Hall in Salfit. The inauguration session was attended by Salfit Governor Issam Abou Baker, PRCS President Dr. Younis Al Khatib and Mr. Bashir Ahmad, Head of PRCS’ Disaster Management Unit.

In his opening remarks, Governor Abou Baker lauded services provided by PRCS as well as the role it plays within society, touching on its humanitarian achievements and efforts to prepare for disasters and emergencies.

Dr. Al Khatib said that PRCS has worked for a long time to heal the wounds of Palestinian victims of disasters both inside Palestine and outside it. “PRCS took part in efforts to provide aid to victims of natural and man-made disasters in many countries, including India, Kossovo, Egypt and other African States. “In 2009, PRCS assessed its own experience and drafted a promising plan built on the participation of civil society to overcome disasters and crises. PRCS has implemented this plan in Ramallah, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jericho, and now in Salfit, in order to enhance society’s preparedness to face disasters. Salfit was chosen because it is clearly targeted by Israeli measures”, he added.

The workshop aimed at developing a contingency plan based on a sound database that would enable the Governorate to face both natural and man-made disasters. It tackled a number of issues including the management of disaster preparedness; a planning guide for the management of disaster preparedness; planning phases; and the preparation of a contingency plan for Salfit Governorate.