EM 020 Disaster Mythology

The myths of disaster. This short course for emergency management practitioners helps to dispel disaster myths and discuss what really happens during disaster. This course is based on decades of disaster research.

This course has one file with four sections. The file is less than one megabyte for the benefit of low bandwidth (14.4 and 28.8 modem) users. The naming protocol is em020.exe. Graphics may not be optimum in these documents due to originals and file size considerations.

These course materials are derived from FEMA's Social Dimensions of Disasters. These materials have not been altered allowing the user to re-use these in the classroom setting.

Upon receiving your paid registration, we will send you the password to open these. We recommend you print out the pages as you need them and keep them as a paper reference.

The test is taken online. When you pass the test, you will be mailed a certificate of completion.

What You Get: 1 File with over 11 pages

There are four objectives to this course.

1. Explain the concepts of “myth” and “disaster mythology”

2. Describe how empirical field research has debunked commonly held beliefs (myths) about disaster behavior

3. Explain why emergency managers must be aware of myths associated with disaster behavior

4. Identify at least 10 myths about disaster behavior and describe research that has proven them to be incorrect.

SAMPLE TEST QUESTIONS

Despite extensive research, the myth of panic cannot be disproved. Emergency managers must include methods to prevent panic in their local emergency plans. (T or F)

The phrase, "the emergency plan must be based on what you want them to do not what they are likely to do" is an example of

a. panic image
b. dependency image
c. control image
d. reverse image

The final exam is 10 questions taken from the reading material. You may use any of the materials while taking the test.

I am ready to enroll: CLICK HERE

Download Course Materials Here EM020.exe 362 KB

I am ready to take the FINAL EXAM

Government publications used in this document have been electronically transcribed by
International Disaster/Fire Training Institute, Inc.
Sources used to develop these courses are public domain documents.