Also:The head of a group which places volunteer specialists in...

Also:
The head of a group which places volunteer specialists in disaster areas has warned enthusiastic volunteers without specific experience not to go to tsunami-affected regions.

The chairman of Registered Engineers for Disaster Relief, Michael Dureau, says his group only sends volunteers who have been been through an interview process and two training courses.

Professor Dureau says one problem is ensuring that everyone who is involved in the relief effort is able to understand the local culture.

"An untrained person going into an area where there is quite a massive relief event is likely to tread on the toes of the local people," he said.

"Food distribution will go to the wrong people, they will be religiously offended, clothing will go which they can't wear."

Dave R.