1 Wrong
Local health services are normally able to cope in case of disaster. People from the area can speak the local language and are familiar with the local culture and environment. They know what health services already exist and how to use them. Foreign teams may provide specialist skills and equipment, but they have to be fed and housed.

2 Right
It is important that the wrong items are not sent. Disaster-relief teams do not want to be occupied with sorting out items that can or cannot be used. Concerned people in Britain should wait to hear exactly what is needed, or should give money to agencies so that the right materials can be bought.

3 Wrong
Bodies do not cause epidemics, or transmit diseases during the first seventy-two hours after death. The top priority is rescuing and caring for the injured.

4 Right
Keeping people as close as possible to their homes is the best option. Settlement camps are a last resort, since they have problems of their own. Illness can spread more easily if people are living in cramped conditions, and psychologically it is better for people to stay in their own environment, if possible. International help in the form of building materials and tools may be needed, however.

5 Right
Food is a top priority after a flood or a hurricane, but it should be stored and given out properly. After the disaster, giving seeds and tools so that people can grow their own food is important.

6 Wrong
Food should be given to everyone. People who are involved in rescuing and rebuilding work (not usually the youngest or eldest) need a regular food supply so that they can continue working.

7 Wrong
Although it is understandable that individuals will wish to take care of the own families first, teamwork is very important in a disaster. Sometimes teams can be trained beforehand so that each person knows what they should do.

8 Wrong
The media often report that selfish behaviour is common after a disaster. In fact, disaster situations usually bring out the best in people. Communities join together to deal with difficult situations. The police and the army will be needed to help with the rescue and rebuilding.

9 Right
Long after a disaster has disappeared from the headlines, people are still coping with its effects. The damage may last many years. Health and water supplies may be destroyed. Rebuilding is very costly.

10 Wrong
Unfortunately the world’s attention span is very limited. The media soon lose interest. You may be able to raise some funds for long-term recovery, but it will be difficult to make sure that people are not vulnerable to the next disaster.