Managing natural hazards

Question 1

How can we predict earthquakes ?

Answer 1

• Tiltmeters which measure ground changes
• Recording clusters of small earthquakes
• Recording changes in radon gas emissions
• Noticing changes in animal behaviour
• Remote sensing of the ground movement using satellites

Question 2

In what ways can a country prepare for an earthquake?

Answer 2

• Building design
• Land use planning
• Earthquake drills
• Emergency planning

Question 3

How can buildings be designed to withstand earthquakes?

Answer 3

• Shutters on windows to prevent falling glass
• Cross-bracing steel frames
• Deep foundations sunk into the bedrock
• Frames with allowance to sway with the earthquake
• Rubber shock absorbers to absorb tremors travelling through the building

Question 4

How can land use planning be used to lower risks of earthquakes?

Answer 4

• mapping of areas most at risk so dense population can be located away from these areas
• key services like fire services and hospitals can be kept away from danger

Question 5

How can drills and education be used to lower risks of earthquakes?

Answer 5

• Drills prepare people so they know what to do in the event of an earthquake to protect themselves
• Education about preparing homes means people are less likely to be killed by falling objects

Question 6

How can remote sensing and GIS be used to lower risks of earthquakes?

Answer 6

• Satellite remote sensing can show patterns of movement which could lead to a earthquake
• GIS can be used to assist with planning by giving data on vulnerable areas, land use and infastructure

Question 7

What are examples of short term response?

Answer 7

• Searching collapsed buildings
• Providing medical assistance
• Distributing food and water
• Ensuring people have shelter
• Clearing rubble and debris