So, it is essential to draw up a list of preparatory activities, which must include the following:
Assessing the vulnerability of key infrastructure.
The goal is to identify the strengths and weaknesses of public works and strategic structures of the country or region—highways, water supply systems schools, hospitals—as well as alternative actions that may be required should the infrastructure collapse. The approach will vary according to local conditions, but is likely to include the following:
o Map and systematically review key elements of the national transport infrastructure (port, road and rail, and air), such as capacities and constraints on strategic routes, key bottlenecks such as bridges and ferries, availability of communications, and risks of blockage due to hazard impact. A major concern will be port and airport vulnerability to natural hazards. This can include, for example, cyclone damage to hangers, warehouses, refueling and cargo handling equipment, and the impact of earthquakes on key systems.
o Review the potential secondary effects of disaster, such as road blockages by population movement from affected areas.
o Analyze annual weather records to see how climate can constrain transport system capacity at different times of the year.
o Regularly monitor major modifications and new construction, which may introduce temporary limits and diversions; for example, bridge weight, height or width restrictions due to repairs.