Question

What is the primary focus of prevention activities in Disaster Management?

• A. Rapid response and relief operations after a disaster occurs.
• B. Completely avoiding the negative effects of hazards and lessening their impact.
• C. Providing immediate financial aid to affected populations.
• D. Rebuilding infrastructure to be more resilient after it has been damaged.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Completely avoiding the negative effects of hazards and lessening their impact.

Prevention is the first and most proactive phase of disaster management. Unlike mitigation, which seeks to reduce the severity of a disaster, prevention aims to completely avert it. This involves taking measures to eliminate the risk of a hazard turning into a disaster. Examples include:

• Land-use zoning: Prohibiting construction in floodplains or landslide-prone areas to prevent future damage.

• Building codes: Enforcing strict, disaster-resistant building codes to ensure structures can withstand natural hazards.

• Structural measures: Building dikes, dams, or levees to prevent flooding in a community.

• Health and sanitation programs: Implementing public health campaigns to prevent the spread of diseases.