Mutual alliances for local disaster risk reduction, response and resilience planning: a case study from Kathmandu

This project provided a central focus for the improvement of the local emergency responses of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Fire Brigade. In particular, donated fire fighting equipment and training increased the efficiency and effectiveness of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City based fire fighters. The project helped fire-fighters to acquire skills that would prepare them to fight disasters and increase adaption to new and emerging risk in the city. This initiative was unique in that it was the first situation to arise wherein serving fire fighters from Tyne and Wear and Northumberland Fire and Rescue Services with researchers form Northumbria University came together with their colleagues from a developing nation to share skills, ideas and fire-fighting tactics and techniques in a forum characterised by openness and the spirit of sharing. This initiative also benefited to the UK fire fighters and researchers in that they will benefit from sharing the knowledge and techniques used by the Kathmandu fire fighters in the absence of technologically advanced equipment and vehicles.