The key to preventing disease is to improve sanitary conditions and educate the public. Disasters bring out the worst in human behavior. Although isolated cases of antisocial behavior exist, the majority of people respond spontaneously and generously. The affected population is too shocked and helpless to take responsibility for their own survival. On the contrary, many find new strength during an emergency, as evidenced by the thousands of volunteers who spontaneously united to sift through the rubble in search of victims after the 1985 Mexico City earthquake.
Disasters are random killers.
Locating disaster victims in temporary settlements is the best alternative. It should be the last alternative. Many agencies use funds normally spent for tents to purchase building materials, tools, and other construction-related support in the affected country. Things are back to normal within a few weeks. The effects of a disaster last a long time.