Use Technology to protect Individuals from Naturals Disasters
General description of the project
Topic: Use Technology to protect Individuals from Naturals Disasters
1. Introduction
In recent past years Puerto Rico is hit by hurricanes and tornadoes that cause millions of Puerto Ricans to run out of electricity, water, food and even lost their homes. I can name hurricane Maria and Irma in 2017, Hurricane Fiona in September 2022. Maria claimed 2,981 lives and caused an estimated $99.9 billion U.S. dollars in damages. The damage caused by Maria 2017 was extremely high leaving 3.4 million residents in the dark. According to the National Hurricane Center’s Hurricane Maria, 80% of Puerto Rico’s utility poles were knock down by Hurricane Maria. As the sea level increase by 1.6 feet, the projections are speculating that nearly 8,000 structures in the island’s low-lying areas are at risk of frequent flooding, windstorms. If that increase extends to 6.5 feet, more than 50,000 structures are threaten and approximately $11.8 billion structures values will be in losses. Moreover, Puerto Rico could potentially lose 3.6 percent of total coastal land. With all these concerns, I can use technology to help individuals to be resilient on hurricanes.
2. Significance of Technology
Using technological tools to assist in collaboration with a
community facing natural disasters is particularly meaningful for a college
student from outside the community. Technology helps bridge the gap
between the student and the community by providing platforms for
communication, information sharing, and collaboration. It enables the
student to build relationships and gain insights into the community’s specific
needs and challenges. Technological tools empower students to develop and
implement sustainable solutions effectively. They provide the resources and
capabilities needed to analyze data, plan projects, and coordinate efforts.
Understanding the importance of these tools can help faculty members,
higher education leaders, and technology developers support students in
their community engagement efforts. It can lead to the development of more
targeted educational programs and technological solutions that address real-
world environmental issues.
Technologies
2. How can I use Technology to provide help in the community during hurricanes?
a) Before the Hurricane:
• Create Apps that provide real time weather updates
• Conduct virtual or in-person workshops
• Establish communication networks using platforms like WhatsApp
• Utilize technology to gather information
• Distribute or advise on acquiring solar-powered phone chargers and power banks
b) During the Hurricane:
• set up temporary Wi-Fi hotspots using portable satellite internet devices. This can help maintain communication channels even if regular networks go down.
• SMS-based alert systems to send out critical information such as weather updates, evacuation orders, and safety tips.
• Encourage the use of hand-crank or battery-powered radios for broadcast
• Have satellite phones available for emergency communication
c) After the Hurricane:
• Use drone technology to map out affected areas to coordinate relief effort effectivaly
• Setting up temporary solar-powered charging stations in multiple locations
• stablish local mesh networks
• use smartphones and tablets to document damage and needs.
• Implement mobile health clinics
Offer post-crisis workshops on technology use
Explain project results
The project brougth more intention in my resume. I have received invitations in LinkedIn, and I am connected to many students and professors based after my presentations.
Why it should be considered best practice?
This project should be considered as best practice because I worked around it with a professor from Albizu University in Porto Rico. In addition, I participated in HETS tour around many Campuses in Puerto where I presented my project to many students and staff members at Albizu university and connect with other students. At the end I received a certificate of hard work and participation to best show case.
Highlights of your proposed presentation
My presentation has allowed me to connect with top personally and professionals. In addition, I gained abroad studies experience. It gives me an opportunity to explores my career path after graduation.
The Evaluation Committee will evaluate submitted proposals based on the following criteria. Each area will be rated on a scale from 1 to 5 (1= non-satisfactory; 5 =outstanding), for a maximum of 45 points.