International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

What Is the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction?

October 13th is the "International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction." It was established by a resolution of the UN Economic and Social Council in December 1989. Originally observed on the second Wednesday of October, it was fixed to October 13th by the UN General Assembly in December 2009. The day calls for international efforts to prepare for natural disasters such as earthquakes, storms, floods, and volcanic eruptions, and to reduce the damage they cause.

From "Reducing Disasters" to "Reducing Disaster Risk"

The day aims to protect lives, property, and social order from natural disasters through coordinated international action. Its English name has also been updated over time.

• Established:December 1989, by resolution of the UN Economic and Social Council
• Date:originally the second Wednesday of October; moved to October 13th by the UN General Assembly in December 2009
• English name:renamed "International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction" in January 2019
• Disasters covered:earthquakes, storms and floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions, forest fires, droughts, and more

Japan Also Has Its Own "Disaster Prevention Day"

In Japan, September 1st -- the date of the Great Kanto Earthquake -- is well established as "Disaster Prevention Day," while October 13th is a day for the whole world to think about disaster preparedness. Each year the UN Secretary-General issues a message on this day. Adding the word "risk" to the name reflects the idea that while disasters themselves cannot be eliminated, preparation can reduce the risk of damage.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Check the evacuation routes and emergency exits at your workplace
• Check the expiration dates of your emergency supplies and stockpiles
• Agree with your family on how to contact each other and where to meet in a disaster
• Look at the hazard map for the area around your home and workplace

Preparation Reduces Damage

No one knows when a natural disaster will strike, which is exactly why small everyday preparations make a big difference. October 13th is a day to think about disaster prevention together with the world and review your own preparations.