To enhance response speed and efficiency, while helping communities respond more effectively when disasters occur, York University’s Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Advanced Disaster, Emergency and Rapid Response Simulation (ADERSIM) Lab and Emergency Operations Centre simulates challenges like extreme weather or public health crises, allowing local governments, first responders, and private sector teams to practice real-time emergency coordination.
Equipped with modelling software, AI-enhanced dashboards, extended reality simulations, drone-integrated sensing, and rapid communication technologies, the ADERSIM Lab provides decision-makers with critical data during emergency scenarios. This enables real-time monitoring of infrastructure and resource flow, giving municipal and regional leaders the tools they need to make informed, lifesaving decisions. The centre also offers specialized training programs for students and practitioners, strengthening local capacity to manage emergencies.
Beyond response, the lab serves as a hub for collaboration, connecting municipalities with researchers to co-develop technologies tailored to community needs, from evacuation route mapping to emergency logistics and risk assessment models. The lab is also helping create opportunities for student internships and workforce training to build local emergency management capacity.
For more information, visit York University.
