Mitigation of windstorm disasters

Efforts to mitigate windstorm disasters can be divided into four areas: life safety; lifeline safety; business protection; and property loss reduction. There are two important strategies to reduce deaths and personal injuries due to disasters: evacuation and shelter design. Shelters might prove to be more economical than evacuation. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has published design criteria for occupant safety in buildings and for loads that can be used to design emergency operation centers. The preliminary designs suggest the use of reinforced concrete or masonry which can provide protection from severe winds. Mitigation efforts should also provide for the continuity of businesses and services for the welfare of the public.