Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response
(formerly Lutheran Disaster Response)

Disaster Response Database

... because tracking vital information shouldn't create another disaster...

Tracking disaster information

Disaster comes in many forms... hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, terrorism and others. But throughout these tragedies, there is a common thread---the need for disaster response agencies to organize their efforts effectively and in a way that will help them address immediate and long-term needs. This management tool can do just that.

The Disaster Response Database was born out of a natural catastrophe---the 1997 floods that covered the Red River Valley of North Dakota. Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota, the agency spearheading the relief efforts, found reporting and tracking important information to be a big challenge in the midst of this disaster. It used the lessons it learned during the floods to create this comprehensive tool in cooperation with National Lutheran Disaster Response.

What it does...

The Disaster Response Database organizes disaster-related information into these components:

Client Information

tracks client's vital information
lists special populations
determines priorities based on needs
Financial

tracks client's payments from
FEMA
insurance
vouchers
personal income and savings
Construction

generates scope to complete construction
lists materials needed
coordinates with volunteer information
Donations

tracks cash and in-kind donations
Equipment

lists sources and values of equipment
tracks where it is and who used it
Volunteers

follows groups and individuals
tracks locations they worked in
identifies skills and skill levels

Easy to Use!

The database is designed to accommodate those who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with computers. It allows you to use only the components you need. You can also customize the database for the disaster you are faced with.

Forms required by the database are in Microsoft WORD® are included and can be changed easily. The database operates on Microsoft Office 2007 Professional - ACCESS® (or higher) and requires no additional costly software.

The Disaster Response Database also generates a variety of reports, including overviews, accounting reports, and others that analyze data in unique ways. Reports can be generated without survivors' names for reports to be used outside the disaster-relief agency. Data is entered only once and all these reports can be produced on demand with the click of a mouse.

A sample database with test data is also included, allowing you to add/change/delete data to become better acquainted with the database.

Putting the Database to Work for You

The database is available as a single copy for small operations or it can also be used on a server for multiple users.

To learn more about the database, contact Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response at 1-800-950-2901 or by email.

The Disaster Response Database and its accompanying instruction manual are copyrighted by Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota.