INFORMATION-COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY USE IN CASE OF NATURAL AND OTHER DISASTERS: FROM PREVENTION TO MITIGATING DAMAGES

Abstract

Information-communication technologies (internet) have been developed for working in the most unfriendly environment, determined by the possibility of total nuclear engagement in the cold war era. However, the huge spread, popularisation and commercialisation in the eighties of the last century ensured its entry into almost all social systems. The system of protection against natural and other disasters is no exception. The role of information-communication technology in times of social crises caused by natural and other disasters, has been increasing enormously in the fields of public informing (mobilizing effect), infrastructural support of complex crisis management systems (coordination and crisis communication) as well as disaster simulation. Informationcommunication technology has become one of the most important instruments in early warning and prevention, as well in mitigating damage.