Multicriteria assessment of the response capability of urban emergency shelters: A case study in Beijing

Urban emergency shelters are pivotal for safety, with effective evaluation criteria enabling decision-makers to identify strengths and weaknesses, facilitating targeted enhancements. This study aims to propose a scientific criteria system for assessing urban emergency shelters on a smaller scale, employing the analytical hierarchy process and multisource data. Considering six key perspectives—site safety, spatial accessibility, demand matching, shelter facilities, operation, administration and maintenance (OA&M), and public awareness—a hierarchical structure of evaluation indicators for assessing the emergency response capability of urban emergency shelters is presented. To demonstrate the practicality and scientific validity of the proposed indicator system, we apply GIS analysis to evaluate the Yuandadu Park Emergency Shelter in Beijing. The findings validate the effectiveness of the indicator system and its potential for assessing individual shelters comprehensively. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of shelters through this comprehensive assessment, decision-makers can make informed choices to improve overall emergency preparedness and response in urban settings.