Today, 13 October, marks the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, a day designated by the United Nations to promote a global culture of prevention, preparedness and risk reduction.
In 2026, the theme of the international campaign is “Resilience Starts at Home” — “Resilience begins at home” — and places housing and households at the heart of building more resilient communities. The message is clear: everyone should be able to live in a home that is safe, accessible and capable of withstanding the risks present in the local area.
Our homes are the places where we seek protection and safety, but they can also be among the first to be affected when floods, extreme temperatures or other adverse events occur. Reducing the risk therefore involves being aware of the existing dangers, improving the safety of homes, ensuring information is accessible, and making sure that warning systems reach families, are understood and enable a timely response.
This year’s campaign also emphasises that resilience does not depend solely on individual choices. Urban and spatial planning, building regulations, investment in safe housing and community participation are also key factors in reducing vulnerabilities and protecting people’s lives, livelihoods and future.
Disaster preparedness also includes the capacity of health systems to respond to new needs without disrupting essential care. The World Health Organisation warns that emergencies can lead to a significant increase in rehabilitation needs whilst, at the same time, compromising access to existing services. For this reason, rehabilitation must be integrated into preparedness, response and recovery in emergency situations.
Physiotherapists can play a part in these responses, helping to prevent complications, promote functional recovery in those affected and ensure continuity of care for those who already require rehabilitation.
On this International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Portuguese Physiotherapists’ Association endorses the 2026 message and reminds us that preparedness also begins at home.
In this context, the Association is once again making available the information leaflet “Physiotherapy in Emergency Situations”, which sets out practical guidance aimed at enhancing families“ preparedness, safety and independence in critical situations. Please see the leaflet ”Physiotherapy in Emergency Situations”.