FbA by the DREF is a fast, reliable and efficient way of getting money to Red Cross and Red Crescent societies in anticipation of disasters. It helps them save lives and reduce, or even prevent, the damage and losses caused by disasters on communities.

FbA by the DREF uses a forecast-based financing approach. Based on meteorological forecasts and risk analysis, we agree funding to National Societies for early action in advance of a predicted hazard. Money is then released automatically when pre-defined forecast thresholds or ‘triggers’ are met.

Early Action Protocols are formal plans produced by National Societies. They outline the early actions they need to take when a specific hazard is forecasted to impact communities.

They last for five years and include the following:

• Pre-positioning of the stock needed to enable early actions
• Readiness activities so the National Society is prepared and on standby to respond
• Pre-agreed early action activities designed to save lives and livelihoods once a hazard is forecasted

Any National Society can develop an Early Action Protocol for a specific hazard and apply to the FbA by the DREF. For more information, download the below brochure or contact FbA Senior Officer Nazira Lacayo.