TY - JOUR
PY - 2018//
TI - The "Lac-Mégantic tragedy" seen through the lens of the EnRiCH Community Resilience Framework for High-Risk Populations
JO - Canadian journal of public health
A1 - Généreux, Mélissa
A1 - Petit, Geneviève
A1 - Roy, Mathieu
A1 - Maltais, Danielle
A1 - O'Sullivan, Tracey
SP - 261
EP - 267
VL - 109
IS - 2
N2 - SETTING: On July 6, 2013, a train carrying oil derailed in downtown Lac-Mégantic (Quebec, Canada), causing major human, environmental, and economic impacts. We aim to describe, and learn from, public health strategies developed to enhance community resilience following the train derailment though the lens of the EnRiCH Community Resilience Framework for High-Risk Populations. INTERVENTION: Annual population-level surveys were conducted in Lac-Mégantic and surrounding areas to assess the long-term impacts of the disaster.
FINDINGS suggested that a solid upstream investment towards the development of adaptive capacity was needed. A "Day of Reflection" bringing together local stakeholders and citizens was organized, inspiring the elaboration of an innovative action plan. Leaders advocated for funding to support its implementation, leading to a substantial investment from the provincial government. Through a wide range of actions, the plan aims to bring psychosocial services closer to people, stay connected with the community, and foster community engagement. OUTCOMES: Several lessons have been identified. After a disaster, there needs to be a balanced focus between the gaps/needs and strengths/capacities of a community. Moreover, public health actors must collaborate closely, all along the continuum of the upstream-downstream paradigm, with local organizations and citizens. IMPLICATIONS: This unique experience, supported by an empirically-based framework, suggests that three vital ingredients are required for success in recovering from a disaster: (1) fostering community strengths and valuing citizen participation, (2) a strong political commitment to support upstream actions, and (3) a public health team able to support these actions.
Language: en
LA - en SN - 0008-4263 UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.17269/s41997-018-0068-z ID - ref1 ER -