Tarps play a significant role in the recovery efforts after major natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, oil spoils, earthquakes and tropical storms. Used for many different applications, tarps provide both temporary shelter and refuge from heat and foul weather as the recovery efforts take place. In addition, tarp covers can also be used to prevent further damage to buildings and houses when used on rooftops. The temporary coverage provided by the tarpaulin is essential in the recovery process for both the victims and emergency personnel. The tarpaulin is made using woven polyethylene and is then laminated for a finished product that is both durable and waterproof. It is the natural characteristics of polyethylene, which makes the poly tarp so effective in these situations. Polyethylene is not only naturally resistant to mold, mildew and rot but is also designed to be both waterproof and UV resistant. The use of the relief tarp can be categorized into four main categories and include temporary roof coverage, ground cover, triage and shelter.
During Hurricane Katrina the tarp was used and widely distributed by FEMA during Operation Blue Roof. Both volunteer and contracted workers installed thousands of tarps to rooftops where damage was evident. The tarp was both a cost effective and dependable solution for temporary coverage and prevented structures from further damage until permanent repairs could take place. The simple act of using a waterproof cover in these relief
situations allowed residents to remain in their homes while the recovery efforts continued. The roof tarp is easily installed using strips of 2 x 4 wooden studs and nails.
The tarp can be used as a ground cover for victims as emergency workers provide medical attention as well as an area where essential supplies can be stored. As a ground cover, tarps act as a waterproof membrane and allow vital operations to continue without the disruption of moisture. In addition, the tarp can be used on hillsides and slopes as a way to control erosion after heavy rains. Using a tarpaulin as a ground cover for tents is an ideal way not only prevent moisture from entering the living space but also acts as a protective barrier from hard debris such as rocks and sticks.
In triage situations it is vital to operations that all victims be separated based on the severity of injury. Colored
tarps such as Red, Yellow and Green allow emergency personnel to properly and efficiently separate those based on need. Generally, the green tarps are used for the walking wounded or those with non-life threatening injuries. The yellow tarps are used for those with moderate injuries and the red tarps for those that need immediate assistance. The ability to use colored tarps that are both weather resistant and portable is a huge advantage for first responders.
The tarpaulin can be used by itself or in conjunction with a framed structure to provide shelter in the form of a canopy tent. When used with a structure, the tarp provides an instant shelter where rescue operations can take place as well as, a place for those without homes to find refuge. Both the framed structure and the tarp can be made with lightweight materials for easy transport and quick assembly.
The tarpaulin is a vital tool in relief and recovery efforts both before during and after a natural disaster occurs. Whether the tarp is being used for temporary roof repair, as ground cover, triage or as an instant shelter, the benefits are both advantageous and invaluable. Poly tarps are manufactured and available in a wide variety of colors and sizes. The strong yet lightweight material makes the tarp cover a key element in any disaster situation.
