Dylan Mathews, Y Care International's Director of International Programmes explains why Disaster Risk Reduction is such an important part of our emergency work.

Oct 11, 2011, 09:21 AM

In the past decade, 2 billion people have been affected by disasters caused by natural hazards, a figure which in the face of changing climate conditions is set to increase dramatically over the coming years. The majority of disasters can be prepared for by paying attention to seasonal weather hazards and identifying early-warning signs that give people time to protect themselves and their property.

Through supporting our YMCA partners around the world, Y Care International is helping communicties ready themselves in advance for events that might affect them. Being 'disaster prepared' means you can reduce the risk of lives being threatened by disasters that may happen.

Dylan Mathews explains why Disaster Risk Reduction is so important and exactly how YMCAs work with young people to 'be prepared'.