When disasters strike, AirBnB activates its response tool for a designated geographic area. When the tool is activated:
- AirBnB automatically emails hosts in the affected area, asking them if they are able to help
- Existing hosts and local residents with extra space can host those in need for free
- All AirBnB bookings in the affected area are fee-free
- All hosts have access to AirBnB's 24/7 customer support, Trust & Safety tools, Host Guarantee and other services regularly available to AirBnB hosts
- AirBnB buses its networks to provide general disaster response information to guests and hosts
Collaborating with regional disaster relief organizations in advance of an event helps AirBnB reach a broader audience and help more people during the actual event. Through partnering, AirBnB is able to commit to:
- Pre-identifying and activating AirBnB hosts who will commit to opening their doors
- Providing disaster and emergency preparedness educational materials to AirBnB hosts
- Using AirBnB mobile and web technology to notify hosts and guests about significant hazardous incidents
- Facilitating community emergency response trainings to cultivate AirBnB hosts as trained leaders
In 2013, AirBnB launched a disaster response initiative that makes it easy for AirBnB hosts to provide space for people in need when disasters strike.
Since then, hosts have opened their door to displaced residents in response to emergencies around the world, including in:
- San Diego in response to major fires
- Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia for people affected by the Balkan floods
- London, Sardinia, and Colorado after serious flooding
- Kefalonia after an earthquake hit the island
- Toronto and Atlanta following severe ice storms
- The Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan
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