Brief communication: Towards disability inclusive risk management

This document highlights the heightened disaster risk faced by people with disabilities and presents findings from a pilot study in Tyrol, Austria, examining their exposure to flood hazards and the inclusiveness of existing disaster risk management arrangements. The brief explains why disability‑inclusive disaster risk reduction is essential, noting that facilities serving people with disabilities are frequently located in flood‑prone areas. Drawing on spatial mapping, expert interviews and document analysis conducted between 2024 and 2025, the brief communication is intended for policymakers, civil protection authorities, disability organisations, researchers and practitioners seeking to strengthen inclusive preparedness and response.

The brief identifies five key lessons for improving disability‑inclusive disaster risk management: raising public awareness of flood risk and disability‑specific needs; enhancing self‑help capacities through accessible information and training; improving data collection to support targeted planning; ensuring accessible, multi‑format disaster communication and early warning; and promoting the participation of people with disabilities in emergency response organisations. It concludes that inclusive approaches not only reduce disproportionate impacts on people with disabilities but also strengthen resilience for other at‑risk groups, offering practical guidance for regions facing similar hazard profiles across Europe.