In Hat Yai district,the Deputy Governor of Songkhla presided over the launch of a project aimed to build a knowledge base for the civil sector concerning disaster prevention and mitigation.According to a leading staff member,the NDWC has been continuously educating people in all regions about natural disasters and preparing its personnel for emergency services since 2006.This year,the focus is placed on raising public awareness of the channels available for reporting natural disasters and the correct use of life-saving devices.