Hazard Identification & Risk Analysis Flashcards

What is hazard identification?

Answer: Finding possible dangers

Hazard identification is the foundational step in emergency management, involving the systematic process of finding and recognizing potential sources of harm or danger. This includes identifying natural hazards like floods and earthquakes, as well as human-caused hazards such as chemical spills or terrorism. By pinpointing these possible dangers, communities can begin to assess their risks and develop appropriate mitigation and preparedness strategies.

What is a vulnerability?

Answer: Weakness to hazard

A vulnerability in emergency management refers to the susceptibility of a community, system, or asset to the damaging effects of a hazard. It describes the characteristics or circumstances that make something more likely to be harmed or suffer greater impact when exposed to a particular danger. Understanding vulnerabilities is crucial for developing targeted mitigation and preparedness measures.

Why use risk assessments?

Answer: Assess impact and likelihood

Risk assessments are vital for emergency managers because they systematically evaluate the potential threats facing a community. This process involves determining both the likelihood of a hazard occurring and the potential impact (consequences) if it does. By assessing impact and likelihood, decision-makers can prioritize hazards, allocate resources effectively, and develop informed mitigation and preparedness strategies.

What is a risk matrix used for?

Answer: Prioritize hazards

A risk matrix is a visual tool used in risk assessment to plot the likelihood of a hazard against its potential impact or severity. This allows emergency managers to quickly categorize and prioritize different hazards based on their combined risk level. By using a risk matrix, resources can be strategically focused on addressing the most significant threats to a community.

What is mitigation?

Answer: Reduce hazard impact

Mitigation refers to sustained actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from hazards and their effects. These measures aim to lessen the severity of future events, rather than just preparing for them. Examples include building codes, land-use planning, and constructing protective barriers, all designed to reduce the overall impact of disasters.

What is the difference between hazard and risk?

Answer: Hazard is danger, risk is impact chance

The key difference is that a hazard is the potential source of harm or danger itself (e.g., a flood, an earthquake). Risk, on the other hand, is the probability that a hazard will occur and cause a specific level of damage or harm, considering the vulnerability of what is exposed. Risk quantifies the potential for loss, while a hazard is simply the dangerous phenomenon.

Why assess community assets?

Answer: Identify what to protect

Assessing community assets involves identifying and inventorying the valuable resources, infrastructure, and populations within a community. This process helps emergency managers understand what needs to be protected, prioritized for evacuation, or restored quickly in the event of a disaster. By knowing what is valuable, a more targeted and effective response and recovery plan can be developed.

What tool maps local hazards?

Answer: Hazard vulnerability assessment

A Hazard Vulnerability Assessment (HVA) is a systematic process used to identify potential hazards, assess their likelihood and impact, and determine the vulnerabilities of a community or facility. This comprehensive tool often includes mapping exercises to visually represent where specific dangers and susceptible areas are located. The HVA provides a clear picture of local risks, guiding planning efforts.

What increases flood risk?

Answer: Poor drainage

Poor drainage systems significantly increase flood risk because they prevent water from efficiently flowing away from an area. Clogged storm drains, inadequate culverts, or extensive impervious surfaces (like concrete and asphalt) can cause water to accumulate rapidly, leading to localized flooding even during moderate rainfall. Effective drainage is crucial for managing stormwater and preventing inundation.