Medical preparedness plans can be built around similar earthquake scenario calculations based on the building types likely to be affected, the population densities and settlement patterns, the size and characteristic of earthquakes expected in the region, and the medical facilities available in any study area (108). Such a regional hazard assessment, including "casualty scenarios," would permit the development of specific training programs for medical and rescue personnel as well as the appropriate deployment of medical and rescue equipment in advance of an earthquake disaster (109).