2. Proactive or Reactive

The first issue to consider is: What is the goal we are trying to achieve?

Reactive - If the need is an immediate relief of suffering, then food, water, blankets, and short-term shelter are the immediate solution required. In this case steel offers cost effective solutions for efficient, durable, secure warehousing to store goods until they are required. Pre-engineered metal buildings can be quickly installed in any part of the world very cost effectively. Please talk to your local steel supplier for a range of solutions in this area.

Proactive - Steel's natural material benefits add significant value to proactive solutions.

In order to create optimal solutions for disaster-ridden areas, consideration should be given to the following:  1) the type of disasters that occur and the areas in which they occur, and  2) sustainable solutions that add value for local people and contribute to their safety and comfort. In some areas of the world, people live near flood plains to have access to needed water for food production and irrigation. Consequently, flooding is a regular, chronic problem. The same can be said for earthquake areas or hillsides that are prone to mudslides.

It is important to think through how the building will be used and lived in, how it will be installed, who will install it and under what conditions, and what tools and skills they will have. The simplest on site solution is almost always the best, though it does mean more thinking is required in the planning and factory.

The other proactive consideration is to make a step improvement in local people's lifestyles.  These questions should be asked:

1. Can we make the building sustainable over time by reducing the damage of future disasters?
2. Can we give people more control over their own lives by using local materials?
3. Can we give people new skills?
4. Can we protect valuable tools and food stuffs to help build better communities?

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