Prolog

Disasters cause strong changes in physical, economic, sociological and cultural structures of cities and leave deep traces in the memories of societies.

In order to reduce the damages of disasters, it is very important to spread awareness of preparedness and cautiousness, and ensure that sustainability of education and coordination among concerned parties are maintained.

Under the auspices of the Ministry of Interior, and based on the coordinating collaborative joint efforts of Konya Metropolitan Municipality, the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency and relevant institutions and organizations, KOMEK ATID (AFAD Technical Sign Language) Program has been developed. The program contributes to the acceleration of intervention and enhancement of necessary actions before, during and after disasters.

Taking into account areas interest of many institutions and organizations that are responsible for responding to disasters and emergency situations, the preparation phase of the curriculum studies has been compiled and completed after consulting experts in the field of crisis mangement. The study lends itself to accessible implementation at the local, national and international levels. The prepared program is to be made available to relevant personnel and stakeholders of all institutions and organizations, especially the first responders in AFAD Directorates. Besides applied training and oral training, the program entails a glossary of common terms, a mobile application, website design, educational videos, printed/digital materials such as e-books and participation certificates.

“AFAD Technical Sign Language Dictionary” has been prepared to create a unified language of common technical terms in disaster and emergency situations for use by first responders and collaborative institutions and organizations.

In this context, pilot applications were initiated for employees of AFAD, Fire Service, KOSKI (Konya General Directorate of Water and Sewerage Administration), DSI (State Hydraulic Works), Department of Public Works and Engineering, and General Directorate Of Highways.

I would like to thank all of our staff and stakeholders who contributed to the preparation and implementation of the Sign Language Program.

To concludes, I hope that this work will encourage further efforts that promote emphaty in our world and will bring solutions to problems.

                                                                                                                                                                           Uğur İbrahim ALTAY

                                                                                                                                                            Mayor of Konya Metropolitan Municipality