title: Definition and classification of disasters: introduction of a disaster severity scale.
abstract: In disaster medicine, a meaningful definition of the word disaster is lacking. A simple definition, using only two criteria, is proposed. Added to this, a classification scheme is formulated. Based on this definition and classification, a disaster severity scale is introduced. The methodology used is described, and the significance of these proposals is discussed.
authors: Ministry of Welfare, Health and Cultural Affairs, Rijswijk, The Netherlands.
authors: J
authors: J
authors: de Boer
mesh_terms: D004189:Disaster Planning; D004190:Disasters / Q000145:classification*; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D006801:Humans