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Cape Canaveral, FL -March 23, 2010 - When the earth moves, GIS is the solution to provide change detection and logistical support. After a natural disaster like the earthquake and aftershocks in Haiti, how do you figure out where to relocate people and provide crucial, timely aid?
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a modern day computer-aided mapping solution that is operational before any responders hit the scene. A map is always consulted when an incident occurs and one of the main questions is "Where?" These days GIS is used to analyze spatial data, such as population density, location of first aid, land elevation, and approximate average annual rainfall in order to assess and restructure in the aftermath of a disaster. Using location-based information is the key to determining where logistically people or things need to be relocated for optimum safety, availability, and efficiency for distribution.
“We were approached by some companies and in particular one needed to place trailers in Haiti, while another was trying to relocate trained K-9 Units. GIS helps solve problems that have to do with where to put manufactured and utility trailers so that they are in a good geographic location,” says a Spatial Technologies employee.
Initially Spatial Technologies was called on to take a half dozen trained canines to Haiti to aid in finding injured people in the rubble. Spatial Technologies helped to fund a trip to aid the people of Haiti.
A trip was planned to take food and medical supplies.
Spatial Technologies donated the use of the plane. The orphanage paid for the fuel.
What makes one geographic location better than another when working to rebuild after a natural disaster like the quakes in Haiti? A good geographic location to centralize assistance like housing may take into consideration factors such as proximity of jobs, health care, public assistance, elevation, and facilitation of water, electricity and sewage. One of the top learning aspects of the trip was that the team learned that no matter how much aid and resources one can call upon during and after a natural disaster, the most important part is to have a plan ahead of time. Now Spatial Technologies is working with government agencies to plan for the future and demonstrate to others how GIS and aerial photography can greatly help in the rebuilding of Haiti.