Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Natural Catastrophe Versus Disaster Plan

When natural catastrophe occurs, often times individuals, families and organizations are caught off guard on what they do next.  The overwhelming emotions and fears overpowers everything.

Photo by: Reuters
With the recent disaster in Japan .. it is an eye opener and a reminder to everyone that a natural catastrophe is something that cannot be avoided by mankind. However, a need for some coping mechanism is essential. Disaster Plan is necessary in order to have an immediate and alternative approach in coping with a natural disaster.

Reminders and Tips for Disaster:
1. Create an Action Plan for Disaster
2. Identify areas for safety and let everyone involved become aware of the location
3. Identify alternative means of communications
4. Identify alternative routes and approaches when seeking for safety
5. Identify emergency supplies that are essential and useful in the event of calamity
6. Have accessible supplies of foods, medicines, and drinkable water. Oftentimes there is a shortage of food and other supplies during disasters. When homes are not habitable seek for nearest available shelter
7. Habitually fill your gas tank when it reach half full. This can be useful when a transportation will be needed
8. Ideally, in an earthquake zone - have a strong table or desk accessible for safety when buildings or homes begin disintegrating.
9. Have a batterized radio that provides you information, and item that provides light when there is a disruption of utilities.
10. Identify locations of your closest family, relative or a friend
11. Keep extra pairs of clothes and warm blankets in your emergency supply
12. Do not panic, be alert of your surroundings and monitor other possible calamity that may follow like fire or tsunami.

Every setting is different but precautionary measures are handy. Personal and group safety is necessary.

When your organization is operating abroad, one of the important reminder is to identify what natural disasters exist in the Host Country for your employees safety.  Then create a Disaster Plan that is relevant and practical within that locality.

Perspectives:
It would be ideal to review your disaster plan regularly with all involved so that everyone will be ready at any time a natural disaster will take place.

When  creating an Expatriate Disaster Plan do not copy and paste a plan that was specifically made for a particular location or made from another country.  A Rule of Thumb is to create a plan that is sensible, realistic and appropriate to the conditions at the Host Country and specific location.

For any question or concern, please contact us at info@jntconsulting.com

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Friday, March 11, 2011

USCIS - Relief for Japan, Other Nationals from the Pacific Stranded due to Earthquake & Tsunami

Today, March 11, 2011, the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) released an Advisory intended for the Japanese and other Nationals from the Pacific Region whose travels were affected by the Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan last March 10th 2011. (Link Source: guardian.co.uk)

clip by Youtube
The Advisory details is seen below:

Subject: Relief for Japan and Other Nationals from the Pacific Stranded due to the Earthquakes and Tsunami

This advisory is for Japanese and other foreign nationals from the Pacific stranded in the United States due to the earthquakes and tsunami devastation in the Pacific.  If you have exceeded or are about to exceed your authorized stay in the U.S. you may be permitted up to an additional 30 days to depart.
Visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
 Visitors traveling under a nonimmigrant visa:
For additional immigration relief options, please visit the Special Situation page.


How can you help the Japanese victims of the Earthquake and Tsunami?

The American Red Cross has mobilized its efforts in helping Japanese who were affected with the Earthquake and Tsunami.  Ninety one per cent of your donation will go directly to the victims. You have the choice in selecting your favorite charity but choose the ones who will give the most of your  donations.

Perspectives:
1. It would be necessary to contact the nearest USCIS Field Office and discuss your situation. In that way, you can benefit with this Advisory. There is no better way than taking necessary steps in complying with regulations.

JNT Consulting wishes the best to everyone who were affected to this Catastrophe.
"The impact of this Tsunami which begun in Japan is devastating and 'Our Thoughts' to those who perished, and the people who were and will be affected by its expanding impact by the coastal areas of other countries."




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