As the morning sun rose, a village square in Jiangxi Province slowly came to life. Residents gathered around as staff set up equipment for an emergency preparedness drill under the Anticipatory Action Community initiative, designed to help communities prepare for disasters before they happen.

Flashing red and blue warning lights marked the exercise area, while rows of emergency supplies were laid out for inspection. Life jackets, stretchers, LED warning lights, flood-control sandbags, and other essential equipment were checked and readied for use.

Residents listened closely as facilitators explained the purpose of each item and demonstrated what to do in an emergency.

"If a flood or other emergency occurs, put on your life jacket first, follow instructions, and evacuate in an orderly manner," one facilitator explained.

Before long, spectators became participants. Villagers stepped forward to try on life jackets, handle emergency equipment, and practise key procedures under the guidance of emergency response team members.

The highlight of the day was a simulated evacuation exercise. Stretchers were quickly assembled as volunteers practised assisting and transporting people to safety. Although it was only a drill, every step mirrored a real emergency response.

For many residents, it was their first opportunity to use emergency equipment firsthand.

"I've heard about these supplies before, but this is the first time I've actually used them," one villager shared afterwards. "Now I feel much more confident knowing what to do if an emergency happens."

That confidence is exactly what anticipatory action aims to build. By bringing disaster preparedness knowledge and practical skills directly into communities, the initiative helps residents move from reacting to risks to preparing for them.

As the exercise ended and the equipment was packed away, residents left with more than new skills. They left better prepared, more confident, and ready to respond when emergencies arise.