The course aims at training key personnel in being able to assess damages swiftly and efficiently immediately after a disaster. They were given training in order to enable them to work together as teams in the National Assessment Committee. It was targeted at technical personnel in the field so that they are better able to assist people and victims of a disaster in a more coordinated and humane manner.

The Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis Committee (DANA) is made up of representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Belize Defence Force, the Red Cross, NEMO District Coordinators and a United Nations Representative.

The course was sponsored by the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance. The exercise is part of NEMO’s preparedness for the on-going Hurricane Season.

Ms. Beryl M. Armbrister of the Office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance coordinated and conducted the course.