Microcomputer usage in disaster preparedness and response

Abstract

Microcomputers are being implemented in state and local emergency manage ment agencies. This paper summarizes field data gathered in five states (Flor ida, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia), and sixteen local jurisdictions within them, regarding the patterns of implementation for disas ter preparedness. Major implementation barriers, changes in use patterns, and organizational impacts are discussed. Primary uses during several actual dis aster responses are described as well as important uses and adaptations made after the disaster response.