A Disaster Awareness Training was organized by Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). The training aimed to increase awareness of disaster preparedness, proper risk management, and correct response during crises. The event emphasized that pre-disaster preparedness, individual intervention within the first 72 hours, and accurate emergency call communication are of vital importance, highlighting that disaster awareness is a shared social responsibility.
The event was held at Üsküdar University Çarşı Campus Emirnebi Conference Hall, with Ziya Gökalp Şahin, President of the TULPARS Civil Defense Search and Rescue Association, attending as a guest speaker.
Şahin addressed the importance of pre-disaster preparation, correct behavior during disasters, and individual awareness, emphasizing that being prepared for disasters is especially critical in large cities. He also underlined that disaster awareness is not only an individual responsibility but a societal one as well.
Asst. Prof. Ömer Faruk Karasakal: “With correct information and preparation, we can minimize losses”
Delivering the opening speech of the training, VSHS Director Asst. Prof. Ömer Faruk Karasakal stated that universities bear responsibility not only through education and research but also through activities that contribute to society. Emphasizing that disaster awareness training is critical for public health and safety, Karasakal said, “With correct information and preparation, we can minimize potential losses.”
Instructor Esad Sadık Demirtaş: “We need to increase social awareness”
VSHS Emergency and Disaster Management Program Head Instructor Esad Sadık Demirtaş drew attention to the importance of precautions that must be taken before disasters occur, rather than focusing solely on post-disaster response. Demirtaş said, “Earthquakes, fires, floods, and similar disasters can be unavoidable. We must be conscious and prepared for these situations. By sharing the knowledge we gain with those around us, we need to increase social awareness.”
Ziya Gökalp Şahin: “You are your own first rescuer during a disaster”
Conducting the Disaster Awareness Training, TULPARS Civil Defense Search and Rescue Association President Ziya Gökalp Şahin emphasized that in the event of a major disaster, professional search and rescue teams may not be able to reach every location within the first 72 hours. For this reason, he stressed that individuals must have the necessary preparedness to sustain their own lives during a disaster, stating, “You are your own first rescuer during a disaster.”
Şahin noted that disasters should not be regarded solely as natural events, adding that they are largely the result of unpreparedness and poor risk management. He emphasized that simple but effective measures taken before a disaster play a decisive role in reducing loss of life.
Şahin emphasized correct emergency call communication
As part of the training, Şahin also addressed the issue of correct emergency call communication. He highlighted the importance of giving clear instructions such as “dial 1 1 2 and call” instead of saying “call 112” during moments of panic. He also stated that if the 112 line cannot be reached, the 911 line is also actively available in Türkiye, and that knowing the 114 Poison Hotline is vital in cases of poisoning.
A small survival kit should be kept nearby
Şahin also discussed disaster kits, noting that they should not be considered only as equipment to take when leaving the house. In case of a possible collapse and being trapped under debris, keeping a small survival kit with basic necessities next to the bed can extend survival time. He emphasized that water and basic food supplies play a critical role in such situations.
“Disaster awareness is everyone’s responsibility”
Stating that social resilience is only possible with informed individuals, Şahin emphasized that the knowledge gained should not remain at an individual level. Calling on participants to share disaster awareness with their families and communities, he noted that spreading this awareness creates a multiplier effect.
Emphasizing that being prepared for disasters is not only a professional but also a humanitarian responsibility, Şahin stated that with correct information and preparation, losses can be minimized.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and a group photo session.
