Social Media: The Humanity of Disaster Relief

One of the best things about Social Media is the Humanity it brings during times of need...particularly during disaster relief. Mr. Rogers quote from his mother to “…Look for the helpers, you will always find someone helping” now rings true in the world of social media. Social Media is transforming the way in which we connect and reconnect in a disaster situation, by bringing together the helpers and those in need of help.

It’s heartbreaking but true that in the world in which we live, we must be cognizant of how we will handle a disaster situation. In light of recent events from Hurricane Sandy, to the Boston Marathon Bombing and most recently, the tornado that devastated Moore, Oklahoma, we are witnessing a transformation in the way we send and receive information.

In the aftermath of a disaster, cell phone usage can be crippled due to the amount of physical damage done to an area, as well as the large volume of people trying to make a call. Many people are now taking to the internet to avoid the panic of not being able to reach a loved one.

Social Media sites such as, Twitter and Facebook are quickly becoming a platform where a sense of community is formed in the midst of disaster. In Moore, Oklahoma 15 Facebook pages were established within 20 minutes after the tornado left residents in rubble. From pages dedicated to lost or found photos and keepsakes; to animals that were lost or found, to information about how and where to find supplies, the public is helping the public reconnect to their lives before a disaster struck. By placing pictures online, people are reunited faster to their pets, belongings and family, something that posting flyers on telephone poles could never accomplish.

Social media allows us to receive information in real time. Amateur journalist can quickly send out a tweet to alert officials of injured persons or immediate danger in the area they are communicating from.

And It’s not only the public that are changing their communicating ways, Government Agencies are increasing their social media presence. In the midst of the Boston Marathon Bombing, the Boston Police Department took to their Twitter account to speak to the citizens of Boston:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/26/boston-police-twitter-marathon_n_3157472.html

Disasters seem to be an all too regular occurrence in recent years. Preparedness is essential. Have you used social media to reach out in a disaster situation? We want to hear your stories. Share them with us here!