【Disaster Specialist Explains】Emergency Sanitation Safety｜“Poor Hygiene Turns Disasters Into Public Health Crises”

During disasters, toilets fail, water becomes unsafe, garbage accumulates, and disease spreads quickly—especially in crowded shelters. Maintaining sanitation protects individuals, families, and entire communities. As a disaster specialist, I explain essential steps to staying healthy when normal systems break down.

■① Prioritize Clean, Safe Toilet Use

When regular toilets fail:

• Use portable toilets or designated emergency areas
• Keep waste away from living and eating spaces
• Wash hands or use sanitizer after every use
• Avoid makeshift solutions that contaminate water sources

Proper waste management prevents infectious disease outbreaks.

■② Manage Waste Safely and Reduce Contamination

Garbage builds up rapidly after disasters. To stay safe:

• Separate food waste from regular trash
• Seal waste in bags tightly
• Keep trash far from sleeping areas
• Follow shelter or community disposal guidelines

Cleanliness reduces insects, odors, and illness.

■③ Protect Yourself When Water Supplies Are Disrupted

Without safe water:

• Use sanitizer for hand cleaning
• Wipe surfaces frequently
• Avoid washing dishes with contaminated water
• Drink only purified or bottled water

Waterborne illness becomes a major threat during prolonged outages.

■④ Maintain Personal Hygiene Even With Limited Resources

To reduce infection:

• Use wet wipes for daily cleaning
• Change clothes regularly
• Keep wounds clean and covered
• Avoid sharing towels or personal items

Small habits maintain dignity and health in difficult conditions.

■⑤ Prevent Disease Spread in Crowded Shelters

Shelters require extra care:

• Ventilate rooms when possible
• Keep distance during illness outbreaks
• Report symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Follow instructions from shelter staff and medical teams

Simple actions protect vulnerable populations.

■Summary

Emergency sanitation is essential for preventing illness during disasters. Safe toilet use, waste management, clean water, personal hygiene, and shelter precautions protect families from disease outbreaks. Maintaining sanitation keeps communities healthy and resilient during crisis.