Mobile Technology’s Role in Natural Disasters and Public Safety Preparedness and Response

The Brookings Institution
July 16, 2013
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM EDT
http://www.brookings.edu/events/2013/07/16-mobile-technology-natural-dis...

From Hurricane Sandy to international catastrophes such as the tsunami in Japan, governments are increasingly using mobile technology in natural disaster preparedness and public safety response. With an estimated 6 billion mobile phone users worldwide, mobile communications is fast proving to be the most effective and efficient means of reaching and informing the public when disaster strikes. How is mobile technology being used before, during, and after a crisis situation in the United States and around the world? How has mobile communications’ role in catastrophic situations changed, and how are public safety organizations utilizing this technology to make citizens safer and better prepared? What are the costs and benefits of using mobile technology to ready for and react to a major emergency?

On July 16, as part of the Mobile Economy Project, the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings will host a discussion on mobile technology and its evolving role in disaster and public safety. A panel of experts will discuss how mobile devices aid in planning for and reacting to a crisis, and how do they empower emergency management agencies and officials, first responders, and the public to tackle a variety of natural disasters and security crises.

After the program, panelists will take audience questions. This event will be live webcast.

Introduction and Moderator
Portrait: Darrell West
Darrell M. West
Vice President and Director, Governance Studies
Founding Director, Center for Technology Innovation

Panelists
Richard Price
President
PulsePoint Foundation

James A. Barnett, Jr.
Co-Chair Telecom/Cybersecurity Practice
Venable LLP

Suzy DeFrancis
Chief Public Affairs Officer
American Red Cross

Anita Stewart
Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and Development
Sesame Workshop