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The Edge of Disaster, by Stephen Flynn
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By examining six disturbing trends, Flynn reveals that future American disasters will almost certainly end up more catastrophic than they should be. First, the natural environment is undergoing changes that are elevating the risk. Second, we have allowed the protective measures that earlier generations constructed to deal with catastrophic events to erode. Third, we have embraced unfettered urban and coastal development, highlighted by the exponential growth of residential housing. Fourth, we have been unwilling to invest in appropriate mitigation measures or contingency planning to deal with a disaster. Fifth, there are insufficient resources available to respond effectively when a disaster strikes. Lastly, when the dust clears, we go right back to “business as usual.”
Eighty-five percent of the nation’s critical infrastructure lies in private hands, however, acquiring public funding is essential for repairing our highways, bridges, tunnels, dams, canals, water treatment and waste management facilities, navigable waterways, and transit and public buildings. Herein lies the problem, Flynn argues. Our critical infrastructure is as much about protecting the public’s well-being as safeguarding private interests.
Synopsis by Michelle Thomas
Plan. Provide. Protect…The Sovereign Deed Promise™