Risk Management and Preparedness

Preparing for Natural Disasters

Amman, like many urban areas, may face natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and sandstorms. While these events are relatively infrequent, it's essential for both residents and visitors to be prepared. The Jordanian government and various organizations provide resources and guidelines to enhance preparedness.

1. Earthquake Preparedness:

   • Understand the seismic risks in the region. Amman is situated in an area with historical seismic activity. Familiarizing oneself with earthquake safety procedures can be crucial.
   • Secure heavy furniture and fixtures to prevent them from tipping or falling during seismic activity.
   • Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, and first aid materials.

2. Flood Preparedness:

   • Amman occasionally faces flooding, especially during heavy rains. Stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings.
   • Know the location of high ground in case of sudden floods.
   • Ensure you have a plan to protect personal belongings and important documents by storing them in waterproof containers.

3. Sandstorm Preparedness:

   • Sandstorms can occur suddenly, reducing visibility and affecting air quality. Have a supply of dust masks or scarves to cover your nose and mouth.
   • Keep windows and doors closed during a sandstorm to prevent dust from entering living spaces.
   • Ensure that electronic devices are stored safely, as dust can cause damage.

Risk Mitigation: Personal Risk Assessments

Conducting a personal risk assessment involves identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities you might face in Amman. This proactive approach helps in understanding and mitigating risks effectively.

1. Identify Risks:

   • Consider both environmental and man-made risks, such as natural disasters, theft, or health emergencies.
   • Identify specific vulnerabilities related to your personal situation—such as language barriers, health conditions, or unfamiliarity with the local area.

2. Evaluate Impact:

   • Determine the potential impact of these risks on your safety, health, and property.
   • Categorize risks based on their likelihood and severity to prioritize your response strategies.

3. Develop Mitigation Strategies:

   • Develop strategies to minimize the likelihood and impact of identified risks. This might include acquiring travel insurance, learning basic Arabic phrases for communication, or familiarizing yourself with local emergency contacts.

4. Review and Adjust Regularly:

   • Assess your risk management plan regularly to adapt to any changes in the environment or personal circumstances.

Safety Drills and Procedures at Accommodation

Whether staying in a hotel, hostel, or private accommodation, knowing and participating in safety drills and procedures is crucial for ensuring personal safety.

1. Familiarize with Fire Safety Measures:

   • Upon arrival, locate fire exits, extinguishers, and alarms. Many accommodations will provide a safety briefing or information card detailing these.
   • Participate in any scheduled fire drills to understand how to evacuate quickly and safely.

2. Earthquake Safety Procedures:

   • Know the protocol for taking cover during an earthquake. If indoors, find a safe spot away from windows and heavy objects, such as under strong furniture.
   • Accommodations should provide information on evacuation routes and assembly points in the event of an earthquake.

3. Security Measures:

   • Ensure the accommodation has secure entry points and a reliable system for reporting suspicious activities.
   • Keep valuables in a safe or securely locked in your room when not needed.

By effectively preparing for natural disasters, conducting personal risk assessments, and participating in safety drills at accommodations, both visitors and locals in Amman can enhance their personal safety and resilience against potential hazards.