Being the first Erasmus + experience for me, this project was not only highly enriching but really emotionally fulfilling. The program was well organized combining fun activities, educational content and free time. I have created many new friendships with people from different countries and got to practice my English. I am left with nothing but good feelings after this training course and I am definitely looking forward to being part of another Erasmus + adventure.

How has your perspective changed about disaster preparedness as a result of participating in this training course? What were the most valuable takeaways from the course for you personally?

All my expectations were met during this training course. I learned many new things about the differences between hazards and disasters. Now that the project is over I can safely say that I am not only aware of the possible disasters in different areas in Europe, but I now have a vision on what an effective disaster preparedness method looks like. When it comes to the most valuable takeaways for me personally, I for sure find the knowledge I got useful, but the friendships I managed to form are just as precious.

According to you, what are some effective methods to educate young people about disaster preparedness?

From what we discussed during the course, the most effective methods would implement the „young people help young people “ type of principles. We mentioned that voluntary groups that are already educated on the topic, could attend schools, kindergardens and public events for the youth, so they can present the specifics of being prepared for a disaster and the results from it.

On the individual side of being as ready as possible for such situations, the best everyone can do is to have a personal „disaster kit“ that includes important documents, clothes, first aid kit, appropriate food supplies and emergency contacts. The ideas we shared were numerous but these two I find most effective and yet suitable for young people.