The terrible images keep pouring out of Japan as that country deals with the aftermath of a severe earthquake and tsunami. Our first impulse is to help in some way.
However, we have learned quite a lot about helping out in international emergencies recently, such as the Haiti earthquake just a little over a year ago. Now, it's time to put those lessons to good use.
Here are the top three Dos and Don'ts of helping out during a disaster:
- Give money, not things. Food, medicines, toiletries all have to be packaged, shipped, delivered and distributed. In crisis zones, these packages often sit and just get in the way. Many are not needed or are the wrong things at the wrong time. Money can be used immediately by aid groups working on the ground. They know how to get what they need and distribute it. They need our money to make that possible.
- Donate safely. Scams are rampant during times of distress. Make sure you donate money to established agencies. Check out this list of recommended charities at The Center for International Disaster Information and at Charity Navigator. Do not respond to telephone solicitations. Give directly to the charity of your choosing. Do not restrict your donation. Charities need as much flexibility as possible as a disaster unfolds.
- Do not show up to volunteer. You may mean well, but you would likely be in the way unless you have specific skills that are needed. Aid groups know how to mobilize the appropriate volunteers for the tasks at hand.
Related:
- How You Can Help the Earthquake & Tsunami Survivors in Japan
- How to Text a Donation to Help Japan
- A Donor's Guide to Global Emergencies
- Safe Giving Guide for Donors
- Taxes and International Giving
- The Dos and Dont's of Disaster Donations from "Good Intentions are not enough."
Photo by Brian Stablyk/Getty Images
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