Potential of oral sources for the definition of public policies in disaster prevention: Case of the city of Irapuato, Mexico

Abstract

This article analyzed the potential of oral sources for the definition of public policies, specially addressing the case of flood of Irapuato, Gto. Mexico. Since oral history that allows the generation and preservation of original and historically interesting information from personal memories through planned recorded interviews, there are guiding elements for 1) the design of policies and 2) to define public policies for disaster prevention. Among the conclusions reached, is the need to take advantage of those who have been victims of damage caused by nature, since the testimony of those who have lived through these tragedies must be considered by government bodies, it is recommended that oral sources be systemically used to design policies to prevent future damage.