Risk management

This Guide does not attempt to be fully comprehensive or exhaustive in identifying all risk reduction measures that may be available given the significant variety and uniqueness of each heritage site – including local, traditional knowledge and community engagement, as well as local emergency response and recovery capabilities and resources. Instead, it provides a helpful framework and examples that can be adapted to different contexts to support stakeholder development of risk-informed, tailored and effective Fire Risk Management Plans (FRMPs).

The present research demonstrates a methodological approach to assess the current and future exposure of Mediterranean coastal areas and heritage assets to Sea Level Rise using open access data regarding elevation, vertical ground motion, and Sea Level Change factors (e.g., ice sheets, glaciers, etc.). The future projections regard 2050 and 2100 and are based on RCP scenarios 2.6, 4.5 and 8.5. The datasets used include Copernicus GLO-30 DSM, the European Ground Motion Service’s dataset on Vertical Ground Motion, the Sea Level Change Projections’ Regional Dataset by NASA, and a hybrid coastline dataset created for the present research purposes to assist in delineating the study area. The research results demonstrate that Greece, Italy, and France’s mainland and cultural heritage assets already face SLR-related hazards but are expected to be further exposed in the future, always taking into consideration the high level of uncertainty regarding SLR projections and RCP scenarios’ hypotheses.

Heritage plays a key role in sustainability. The absence of studies examining the core competencies of UNESCO actors for disaster risk management (DRM) and preparedness at heritage sites prompted this survey. Respondents from 59 countries revealed high ratings for all competencies listed, with significant discrepancies in terms of building relationships that require attention. In addition, substantial variations in competencies were related to factors such as age, job title, and previous experiences with disaster damage. Holistic DRM competency is the main predictor of disaster preparedness at heritage sites. Thus, improved preparedness through experiential learning and coordinated knowledge-sharing mechanisms will preserve our collective heritage for a sustainable future.

Este artículo pretende explorar las percepciones de un grupo de gestores de Sitios Patrimonio de la Humanidad sobre la gestión del riesgo de desastres.

The National Park Service along with several partner agencies and preservation nonprofits has developed guidance and tools for State, Tribal, and Local governments working with the federal government before and after a disaster.

The objective of the “Jogo da Glória - SMPC Santo Tirso” project is to raise awareness among children and young people about civil protection, to get to know the protagonists and agents and to identify natural, technological and mixed risks. It also aims to instill safety habits and promote appropriate attitudes and behavior in emergency situations. The Santo Tirso Civil Protection mascot, JÉ, is the main character of the game.

Este estudio presenta una panorámica completa de los conocimientos existentes, a escala europea e internacional, sobre la salvaguardia del patrimonio cultural frente a los efectos de los desastres naturales y las amenazas causadas por la acción humana. Además, traza un mapa de las estrategias y herramientas existentes para la gestión del riesgo de desastres en los 28 Estados miembros, y ofrece recomendaciones basadas en pruebas con el fin de apoyar la cooperación europea y mejorar la integración del patrimonio cultural en las plataformas nacionales para la reducción del riesgo de desastres.

Loss of collections in museums can be significant during a fire. It is important that museums put control measures in place to prevent a fire, to detect a fire, and to respond quickly if a fire does occur. To evaluate potential collection losses due to fire over a certain period of time, substantial information is required and there is little quantitative data for fires in museums. It was decided to obtain this data by collecting fire museum records from Canadian fire authorities as well as from fire authorities in other countries and by consulting with experts. This project has resulted in establishing fire Control Levels for museums and in creating a set of reference materials to help risk assessors evaluate the potential collection losses due to a fire. According to experts consulted in this study, having an active fire safety committee composed of staff and management is one of the key elements in fire prevention. Such a committee helps promote awareness and identify problems, as well as propose solutions and ensure that these solutions are applied to minimize risk of fire in an institution.
For optimal protection, museums are encouraged to have a fire alarm system that is monitored continuously as well as an automatic fire suppression system.

Stop Disasters! is a simulation game created by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) as an educational resource aimed primarily at children and youth in countries affected by natural disasters.
The player's role is to design a safer environment for the population in which they live, so they must analyze disaster risks and try to minimize damage when any of these natural hazards such as floods, hurricanes, etc. are triggered.
In support of the game, five fact sheets on tsunamis, hurricanes, forest fires, earthquakes and floods can be downloaded. In addition, there is a list of links and further information for teachers.