Other Related Geological Hazards or not because of the relatively accurate
Rainfall- induced Geologic Hazards
 Aside from earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, there
are geologic conditions that may pose a hazard to
lives and properties when exposed to heavy or
prolonged rain.
Types of Rainfall- induced Geologic Hazards
1. Landslide
 A landslide, also called “landslip”, is a ground
movement on sloping terrain. Landslides do not
happen on flat grounds. Because of the angle on the
ground, gravity induces the land to move downward.
The hazard of landslides can be induced further or
aggravated by rain
2. Sinkholes
 Sinkholes are depressions or holes on the ground that
resulted from the collapse of the surface layer of the
soil. Sinkholes occur in areas where the soil
foundation is made of soft minerals and rocks such as
limestone, salt beds, or any acidic rocks. The rocks
can be weakened further by frequent submersion in
water, such as when there is repeated rainfall or an
unmanaged flood. The rocks dissolve in water and
gradually weaken, carving and forming spaces and
underground become bigger and the layer of bedrock
above it can no longer support the weight above it, a
sudden collapse of the land surface dramatically takes
place
Signs of an Impending Landslides or Sinkholes
 Signs of impending landslides and sinkholes are
visible in areas where there are buildings, bridges,
roads, stationary objects, inland water bodies or
vegetation
For landslides, here are signs of an imminent danger:
1. Springs water seepage, or water saturated grounds in
areas that are not typically wet
2. Soil that loosens and moves away from foundations
3. New cracks or unusual bulges on cemented ground or
walls
4. Underground utility lines that are broken due to
vibrations or tremors from the surface of the ground
5. Buildings, poles, walls, and fences that are leaning
6. Sudden rapid flow of creek waters carrying more
silted water
7. For sinkholes, here are signs of an imminent danger in
groundwater that does not provide the same quality
as before or has become cloudy, acidic, silted or
soiled
8. Sign posts or poles that are suddenly leaning,
slumping, sagging, slanting or bent
9. Ponds that have recently formed or puddles that
grow or have never disappeared
Scientific Tools for Assessing Landslides and Sinkholes
 In some areas, the vulnerability of an area to
landslides or sinkholes can be measured and
validated more accurately through scientific
instruments:
For Landslides.
 In areas that are susceptible to landslides, an Abney
level or a laser rangefinder equipped with a tiltmeter
is used to measure the slope angle, soil compaction,
and soil strength of an area. The data determine the
level of risk to landslides. The same data can also be
used for future terrain alterations or guide to urban
planners to plan a safer structural development in
any area.
For Sinkholes.
 Sinkholes are validated using ground- penetrating
radar (GPR) to provide images of subsurface ground.
It can detect the type of objects, changes in material,
and voids and cracks under a layer of soil. Good
penetration is achieved in soft layers or porous
materials such as dry sandy soils or massive dry
materials such as limestone. The measurement can
reach up to 15 meters. This is why the GPR is a good
tool in determining whether the sinkholes may occur
determination of the soft ground underlying the
ground surface.
Interpreting landslide Hazard Maps
 Areas that have the highest vulnerability to rainfall-
induced landslide have already been identified by the
MGB of the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) through their Geohazard Mapping
and Assessment Program. This program is an ongoing
priority project of the DENR designed to provide
accurate and detailed profile of the terrain of the
Philippine soils. The map generated from this project
have combined landslides and flooding hazards as
these two are the most common geologic issues in
sloping areas during rainfall.
 Maps on probabilities of sinkholes, on the other hand,
have not been generated yet. However, after recent
incidences and discoveries of large sinkholes in other
countries, the DENR is encouraging provincial or
municipal initiatives to conduct soil drilling/ testing
using GPR to detect any possible areas of sinkholes.
Precautionary Measures in Case of a Landslide or Sinkhole
 Once vulnerability and exposure to geohazards is
determined and validated through scientific tools,
visible signs and maps, communities are advised to
take precautionary measures to prevent unnecessary
damage to lives and properties
Landslides
If Your Area is Prone to Landslides
1. Plant more trees, grasses, and other vegetation to
prevent erosion and for compaction of soil.
2. Build channels for diversion of mudflow or debris flow
to direct the flow away from your property. Make
sure through that the diversion does not affect any
property and/ or cause more significant damage as a
result.
3. Do not build your house on or near steep slopes,
mountain edges, drainages, or natural erosion valleys.
Before a Landslide
1. Be familiar with your surroundings. Watch for any
changes in appearance or positions of these objects.
When there is a sudden debris flow, this could be a
good indicator of an incoming landslides.
2. Avoid open storm- water drainage and run-off as
these areas are likely to receive debris and soil from
higher elevations, especially when there is storm or
heavy rainfall.
3. Be updated on news regarding the condition of your
area. Be aware of the disaster plans of your local
government.
4. Learn and participate in emergency response and
evacuation plans for your community.
During a Landslides
1. Be attentive to unusual sounds such as cracking
objects, moving debris and rolling boulders.
2. Stay away from the path of debris. This is more
dangerous if mudflow occurs because it increases in
strength as it meets more water from ponds or
streams and it could be aggravated by heavy rain.
3. Stay on an elevated and sturdy area. Avoid low- lying
areas and steep slopes.
4. If escape is not possible, curl into a tight ball and
protect your head. Find a structure that can serve to
protect you from the flow of debris.
After a Landslide
1. Avoid the slide area. There is still danger of more
landslides.
2. Listen for the latest emergency information. Follow
warnings and instructions by the local government.
3. If the landslide is caused by rainfall, watch out for
flooding as it will follow the same path taken by the
debris flow.
4. Check for injured or trapped people near the slide,
and for damaged structures and other potential
 hazards. Report these immediately to the rescuers or
authorities.
Sinkholes
If sinkholes are not detected earlier and it
appears suddenly, do the following:
1. Find refuge in a stable ground or open area.
2. Wait until the structures on and around the sinkhole
stops moving. Do not attempt to go back and
retrieve your belongings.
3. Wait for a local government’s announcement when it
is safe to go back.
After a Sinkhole’ Appearance
1. Stay away from the sinkhole.
2. Monitor the damages on objects. For examples, if the
crack gets longer or wider, the sinkhole may still be
enlarging.
3. Do not throw anything into the sinkhole. Anything
thrown into it may contaminate the groundwater.
4. Secure whatever is left of your properties and
relocate to safe grounds, preferably far from this
location because the same bedrock or soil profile may
characterize the vicinities of the sinkhole.
Hydrometeorological Hazards
 The geographic location of the Philippines does not
only pose geological threats but also
hydrometeorological hazards. The Philippines is in the
Northern Hemisphere, which is above the equator.
The area near the equator, known as the Intertropical
Convergence Zone (ITCZ), is where trade winds meet.
Trade winds flow in opposite directions and this is the
reason that strong swirling of wind happens. As a
result of this swirling movement, frequent natural
hazards in the atmosphere and oceans take place
Types of Hydrometeorological Hazards
 Hydrometeorological hazards are dangers associated
with the natural processes or phenomena involved in
the transfer of water and energy between the land
surface and the lower atmosphere. The energy and
water release from one area to another causes
impacts that may be challenging to communities
living within the vicinity of the occurrence. Among the
hazards associated with these are typhoons,
thunderstorms, flash floods, floods, storm surges,
tornadoes, El Niño and La Niña.
1. Typhoon
 Typhoons, or bagyo in Filipino, are intense circulating
winds with heavy rain over tropical water and land.
Typhoons are actually tropical cyclones whose winds
have reached more than 118 kilometers per hour,
which is why it is described as “intense”
 As a background, tropical cyclones in the Philippines
usually begin on the surface of the warm
northwestern portion of the Pacific Ocean. The
increase in temperature and humidity can induce the
trade winds in the atmosphere to spiral as it moves
from a higher pressure area to a lower pressure area.
The energy of the swirling movement can strengthen
as it moves westward.
 Depending on the speed of the wind, tropical
cyclones are recently classified as follows:
 Tropical depression (TD): up to 61 kph
 Tropical storm (TS): 62 to 88 kph
 Severe tropical storm (STS): 89 to 117 kph
 Typhoon (TY): 118 to 220 kph
 Super typhoon (STY): exceeding 220 kph
 In some cases, winds do not develop and just
naturally dissipate before reaching land.
 But if typhoons make a landfall, they usually lose
their energy. The large mass of land, especially
terrains characterized by mountains and slopes,
breaks up the pressure of the cyclone. Typhoons
also weaken when they enter a cooler and drier
environment because they come from warm,
moist tropical air.
 PAG-ASA monitors the behavior of the cyclones
as they approach Philippine territory. There are
now five public storm warning signals (PSWS)
established by PAG-ASA.
2. Thunderstorm

A thunderstorm, also known as electrical storm, is a
storm characterized by heavy rain with the presence
of thunder and lightning. Thunderstorms may not
have strong winds in contrast with typhoons.
Thunderstorms happen because there is an uneven
distribution of heat in the air and on land. The heat
from the surface of Earth flows upward and the cold
air from the atmosphere sinks to the ground. This
transfer of heat is a natural process and it can make
the air unstable. If the rising warm air becomes rapid
with the presence of moisture, thunderstorms take
place. Thus, warm air and moisture are key factors in
the formation of thunderstorms.
 Thunderstorms usually happen in summer because of
the atmosphere’s high humidity and high
temperature. The lightning comes from the
separation of charged particles in the clouds. The
collision of water droplets in the clouds due to rising
moisture breaks away the electrons (negatively
charged particles), and these are gathered in the
lower portion of the clouds. The upper portion of the
clouds, on the other hand, becomes positively
charged. When the clouds are close to the ground
and pick up a positively charged object, an electric
current is produced. Sometimes. The voltage is so
high because of the large amount of heat produced.
The hazard in thunderstorms is associated with the
following:
• heavy rainfall that can lead to flooding;
• lightning that can electrocute humans and livestock and
damage electrical facilities;
• air turbulence which can displace or disorient a flying
aircraft; and
• fire that can
3. Flood
 A flood is the presence of excessive water on a
supposedly dry land. It can be caused by continuous
heavy rain or poor drainage. Usually, low-lying areas
are prone to flooding because they receive all the
water coming from higher elevations.
 In densely populated areas, flooding may become a
problem because of limited spaces. Crowding of
structures and people may prevent poor draining
leading to more serious problems such as the
following:
 • Disruption of commercial and industrial operations
leading to loss of income
 • Stand- still traffic causing paralysis in network and
transportation and communication
 • Displacement of affected homes and families
 • Damaged properties resulting from corrosions and
water intrusion
 • Waterborne diseases such as leptospirosis and
typhoid fever
4. Flash Flood
 A flash flood is a rapid flow of water on saturated soil
or dry soil or any foundation that has poor absorption
capability. This usually takes place in slopes such as
mountains, volcanoes, and waterways where the
peak of maximum force takes place downstream.
Flash floods are usually caused by extensive rainfall
but can also be induced by man-made structures such
 as water overflows from a dam. Low-lying areas or
those the slopes are most prone to flash floods. The
intensity, speed and volume of water gushing down
the slopes can drown people and damage the
structures along its path.
5. Storm Surge
 A storm surge is an abnormal rise in coastal waters
due to massive force from the sea or from the air
above the sea. Storm surges can be caused by a
strong typhoon or a sea quake. The force from the
strong winds of a typhoon or from the movement of
sea bottom from a quake push the seawaters toward
the shore, sometimes generating huge waves capable
of destroying seawalls and other structures near the
shore. Storm surges can instantly flood coastal areas.
The accumulation of water can reach into the
hinterland and may cause more flooding in low-lying
inland. If the coast is shallow, storm surges can be
disastrous. Storm surges can also be aggravated by
the occurrence of high tide. In this case, surge height
is higher and can wipe out more structures on the
shore.
6. Tornado and Whirlwind
 A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that is in
contact with the air and land. Its rotational
movement is so violent that it can pick up objects
from the ground and sling them away at far places.
 According to PAGASA (2011), an average of 12- 24
tornadoes hit the country every year, mostly
occurring in flat terrains such as Mindanao and
Central Luzon, especially Nueva Ecija and Bulacan.
Tornadoes from when there are strong winds and low
thunderstorm clouds. The turbulent clouds are
pushed to the ground due to low pressure and strong
winds. As the warm air on the ground comes in
contact with the thunderstorm clouds, a cyclonic,
counterclockwise motion happens. Tornadoes belong
to the major (or greater) category of whirlwinds that
have bigger and stronger cyclonic winds. Because of
the funnel- like swirl of winds, trees. However, in
most cases, tornadoes that occur in the country
dissipate or are too weak to do any major damage.
Temperature Changes in Global Climate Systems
El Niño and La Niña are both natural parts of the global
climate systems. Theses events occur in the Pacific Ocean
when the waters and the atmosphere above it deviate
from their normal temperatures. El Niño is usually
associated with the warming of the central and tropical
waters of the Pacific Ocean, whereas La Niña would have
the exact opposite which is the cooling of the same areas
in a different season.
1. El Niño
 The El Niño phenomenon refers to the large- scale
warming of the ocean and atmosphere across the
central and east- central Equatorial Pacific. This event
begins with the heating up the Pacific Ocean near the
equator. Trade winds in the ITCZ would move the
heated waters westward toward Southeast Asia,
including the Philippines, while some global winds
blow the warmer waters and air toward the western
portions of the United States become warmer than
the average temperatures. In like manner, warming
takes place in the Philippines during the cold season
of December.
La Niña
- La Niña begins in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean,
much similar to the location of El Niño. The sea surface
temperatures during this period become lower by 3-5
degrees Celsius. Cyclones formed during this time shift
westward going to the direction of China. In effect, the
Philippines is affected by the excessive rainfall and cold
temperatures.
Tools for Monitoring Hydrometeorological Hazards
Weather observation stations use various instruments to
monitor and gather data on hydrometeorological hazards.
Some of these instruments are the following:
Doppler radar
- used to measure important weather parameters such as
amount of rainfall and direction, speed and intensity of
winds. These data are used to forecast weather conditions
and upcoming typhoon weeks before the occurrence.
Automated rain gauge
 usually installed in telecommunication cell sites to
observe and locate areas with excessive amount of
rainfall. This is used to detect for possible flooding
and flash floods.
Natural Signs of Impending Hydrometeorological Hazards
 Most of the hydrometeorological hazards can be
heard seconds before they reach your area. Rumbling
sounds usually indicate the coming of a tornado, flash
floods, and storm surges. For the other atmospheric
hazards such as typhoons, tornadoes and
thunderstorms, all you need is strategic location,
preferably a higher elevated area, and knowledge of
geographical directions. Because these hazards form
and travel in the atmosphere, it is easy to see and
detect them from afar.
 Clouds are also a good indicator of a weather
disturbance. Try standing on the roof deck of a
building and view the skyline of your city. Observe the
behavior of clouds. They indicate certain weather
events. If a typhoon is coming, the direction of cloud
movement shows the destination of an upcoming
typhoon. The color, form, and size of clouds, on the
other hand, can estimate the magnitude of an
incoming rain and also if it may become a typhoon or
a thunderstorm. The darker and heavier the clouds
are, the stronger and heavier the rain will be. In some
areas, this characteristic of clouds may indicate
possible flooding.
Appropriate Measures BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER
Hydrometeorological Hazards
 General awareness of any hazards is very important
to avoid panic or other adverse reactions to the
situation. It is vital that the public is fully and
accurately informed of the nature of an impending
hazard and what to do before, during and after the
hazard.
Here are some appropriate measures before, during and
after hydrometeorological hazards:
Before Any Hydrometeorological Hazard
1. Store enough food, drinking water and medicine.
Foods that require little or no preparation and do not
easily spoil are ideal.
2. Have a working flashlight, spare batteries, candles
and matches ready. Electric power may be cut off by
the hazard or by the authorities as a safety
precaution.
3. Meet with all members of your family and make plans
for evacuation to a higher or safer ground especially if
you live in a low- lying area or near a coast, river or
creek.
4. Reinforce the roofs, windows and structural supports
or foundations of your house to withstand strong
winds or water current. Make sure your roofs are
securely held, and that there are no leaks.
5. Transfer valuables, appliances and furniture to a
higher ground especially if your place is flood- prone.
6. Participate in cleanup activities to clear waterways
such as canals, ditches, creeks, streams and rivers of
wastes or garbage.
7. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that may
fall and can be carried away by water current.
During Any Hydrometeorological Hazard
1. If there is no advice to evacuate, stay indoors. Keep
calm and do not go to isolated or open areas.
2. Listen to weather updates by PAGASA and advisories
by the NDRRMC. If the electricity is out, use battery-
powered radios.
3. If you see any signs of water rising, unplug any
electrical equipment and switch off the main circuit
breaker or fuse box.
4. Move to a safer ground or evacuate as advised by
local authorities. Wear protective clothing as you
move to the evacuation site.
5. Bring basic necessities such as food, drinking water,
extra clothes, and medicines to the evacuation site.
6. Beware of open electrical cables that can electrocute
when these come in contact with water. Power
surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
7. Do not go near windows and doors.
After Any Hydrometeorological Hazard
1. Wait for any announcements from local authorities as
to whether it is safe to return home or not. Listen to
weather updates or advisories from local authorities.
Get information on which areas are still not passable
or accessible and avoid going to these places until
cleared of any obstructions.
2. Report fallen power lines or cracked roads to local
authorities.
3. Check your house for any damage and do needed
repairs immediately. If your house is heavily
damaged, leave the area immediately. Do not go back
until it has been examined and declared safe by a
professional engineer or architect.
4. Watch out for live wires or any electrical outlet
immersed in water. Have a licensed electrician or a
knowledgeable person inspect electrical connections
and appliances before you use them.
5. Boil water before drinking as it may be contaminated.
Fire Hazard
 Fires can be devastating. They lead to property loss,
injuries, environmental damage, and sometimes
fatalities.
 It is therefore essential that everyone has safety
knowledge in the prevention of fires and
preparedness in dealing with them.
 Fire is the process of rapid oxidation of any material
resulting in burning. Oxidation means that oxygen
molecules interact with different substances in the
environment, making it unstable ang thus creating a
reaction. When burning happens heat, light, and
other reaction products are released..
Fire Triangle
 A fire triangle is a model that shows the three
essential components that when present together
can start a fire and sustain it- fuel, heat and oxygen.
1. Fuel
 Fire needs a fuel source or combustible material in
order to burn. Fuel comes in different forms: solid
(e.g., wood, paper, plastic), liquid (e.g., gasoline,
kerosene, acetone) and gas (e.g., methane, propane,
acetylene). Different types of fuel burn at different
rates.
2. Heat
 This is needed to start and continue the combustion
process. Combustion happens when flammable vapor
mix with the air (oxygen) and is ignited by a spark or
flame. In essence, when the ignition temperature
(heat) of the fuel (any material) is reached,
combustion reaction happens. This is because the
energy stored in that material reacts with the oxygen
that is present in the air, giving off heat. Most solid
combustible materials ignite immediately because
they instantly give off vapor and readily reach their
ignition or flammable temperature.
3. Oxygen
 This constitutes about 21% of the air around us.
Oxygen reacts with flammable vapors given off by
fuels, and the reaction releases heat. The magnitude
of the fire, whether it is going to be explosive or
flammable, depends on the ratio between the oxygen
and fuel.
Fire hazards can happen anywhere because all the three
components are present everywhere. Fire will not cease
until one or more of the components are removed.
Causes of Fire
 Generally, there are two causes of fire: natural and
man- made.
Natural Causes
 The natural causes of fire are those that result from
natural hazards such as lightning and volcanic
activities. Lightning triggers fire because it carries
with it a large amount of energy that can induce
ignition temperature changes in the material (fuel)
that it comes in contact with. So, when lightning
strikes, say on a hut or grass, the ignition temperature
of the hut or grass is suddenly reached, causing
combustion to take place at once.
 The other natural cause of fire is volcanic eruptions.
Fire can be generated by the objects that get burned
along the path of lava or ejected pyroclastic materials
from a volcano. When these objects come into
contact with combustible materials, such as plants,
fire can happen. Similarly, when there is land
movement due to seismic activities, damaged power
lines or power circuits may ignite a fire.
Man-made Causes
On the other hand, man-made causes of fire are those
caused by human or machine errors. Here are some
examples:
1. Electrical wirings. Faulty wiring, short circuits,
overloaded circuits, and loose wiring connections may
induce fire in any structure or building
2. Unattended ignition sources. A lighted candle, an
improvised gas lamp, a cooking stove, and other
sources of ignition which are left unattended may
topple and/or burn nearby flammable objects.
3. Cigarettes. Cigarette butts that are not properly put
out and are thrown carelessly can spark a fire. The
glowing ember from a discarded cigarette can come
in contact with a flammable material and cause fire.
4. Chemicals at home. Many hazardous and flammable
substances can be found at home. Pesticides, lighter
fluids, gasoline, thinners, spray paints, kerosene, dry
cleaning agents, paint solvents, and nail polish are
flammable liquids that are flammable liquids that are
used for a wide variety of purposes in the household. 
5. Gasoline leaks from vehicles. A gasoline (fuel) leak
from a vehicle is likely caused by corrosion, a worn-
out seal or gasket, or a broken fuel injector. A leak
from the tank, engine, fuel pump or motor
compartment can be dangerous because these places
get very hot.
Classification of Burns
 Burns are tissue injuries caused by heat, electricity,
radiation or chemicals. They can cause pain, swelling,
blistering, scarring, and in severe cases, even death.
Burns can also lead to infections because the
damaged skin can no longer act as a barrier against
harmful microorganisms.
First- degree Burns
 A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of the
skin called the epidermis. Because the damage is
slight, the person is still able to function well with
tolerable pain. The area that is burned is red and dry
without any blisters. There is change in color of the
skin to some extent
Second- degree Burns
 The depth of burn has reached into dermis in this
degree. Because of the severity, this part of the skin
may not function anymore. Blisters are usually the
first sign of second- degree burns. The fluid beneath
the skin spreads until the epidermis falls away,
opening the dermis to the outside environment.
When this happens, the function of the skin to retain
fluid and heat, and block infection, no longer
happens. Burns also can reach never endings, which is
why second- degree burns are painful
Third- degree Burns
 Here, the epidermis, dermis and underlying fat tissue
are damaged. This is the most serious burn. The
muscle and even the bone may be affected. Aside
from the loss of function of the skin in terms of
protection, and fluid and heat retention, many nerve
cells die such that the victim may no longer feel
 anything. The burnt area of the skin may appear
white or charred
Basic Response Procedures during Fire Incidents
 When there is a fire breakout, two hazards need to be
dealt with: fire and smoke. In most cases, smoke is
the primary cause of fatalities due to suffocation. A
thick smoke makes escape difficult not only because it
covers the pathway; it also irritates the eye and
disrupts breathing.
Here are some tips on what you can do in case of building
fires:
1. Find an area where smoke has not yet reached. If
there is a lot of smoke, stay low and crawl on your
hands and knees. Smoke naturally rises or tends to fill
the topmost portion of an enclosed area.
2. Do not panic as this will keep you disoriented and
make you lose your focus.
3. Evacuate the area or room by going to the nearest
exit. If you are not familiar with the building’s layout,
follow the arrows or directions that lead to the exit.
4. While evacuating the room, leave it closed to prevent
the entry of smoke. Do not lock the door to allow
others to escape in the same route or passage.
5. If you can, assist people with special needs, but do
not carry them downstairs. Going down with a load
may impede an immediate escape. Notify emergency
personnel if you know or suspect someone is still
inside the building.
6. Do not use the elevators. Use the stairs to get out of
the building.
7. Do not attempt to go back inside the building until it
has been declared safe by the fire department.
If your clothes catch fire
1. Do not panic or run.
2. Do not stop, drop and roll method. Stop immediately
or stay where you are. Running will make the fire
worse as the fire will grow with added oxygen. Drop
to the ground and cover you face with your hands.
Then roll over back and forth until the fire has been
put out.
In assisting people who are burnt
1. Do not attempt to remove the clothing. In second- to
third- degree burns, clothes may stick to the skin, and
removing the clothes may aggravate the injury and
expose the skin more to infection. If clean cloth or
gauze is available, use it to carefully cover the burned
area.
2. Do not attempt to treat a third- degree burn on your
own. Bring the burn victim to the hospital or call for
medical assistance immediately. While help is on its
way, elevate the burned part above the level of the
victim’s heart. Do not undress the victim, and do not
move clothing that was stuck to the burn.
3. Do not soak or immerse burns in cold water, apply ice
or ice water or apply any ointment. Do not put butter
or oil directly on the burned area. Do not break
blisters that form over the burn. Burns are open
wounds that require aeration for faster healing. Cold
water may temporarily stop bleeding and reduce
some pain, but it can extend the damage of the burnt
area. These things may cause more damage to the
burned parts.
4. Check vital signs such as breathing and blood
circulation. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
might be necessary.
Fire Emergency and Evacuation Plans
 The key element to a successful and effective fire
emergency response plan is to make sure it is
accessible to all concerned people. Training and drills
should be conducted regularly for everyone to be
familiar with the emergency procedures.
Here are some basic guidelines in preparing a fire
emergency plan:
1. The contact number of government agencies such as
the local fire department should be made known.
2. The occupants of the building should know how and
where to report an emergency. The proper authority
will know how to assess the situation and address it.
3. Occupants of the building should be made aware of
emergency routs and exits.
4. All operators should be reminded of safe shutdown
procedures for equipment and facilities to prevent
any damage or additional hazard.
5. All written emergency plans should always be
updated, maintained and tried on a regular basis.
6. A building’s emergency evacuation layout plan should
be posted conspicuously to constantly remind the
members of the building of the proper procedure for
emergencies.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans and
Strategies
Concept of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
 Disasters usually follow hazards, but some hazards
can be prevented or mitigated. Disaster risk and its
impact can be reduced
 Disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) is a
systematic approach to identifying, assessing and
implementing strategies and plans that aims to
reduce the damage caused by natural hazards. If
disaster risk is reduced, the probability of a hazard
event becoming a disaster is small
 DRRM includes the concepts of mitigating and
preparing for the adverse impacts of hazards,
reducing vulnerabilities to hazards, wise management
of land and the environment and increasing disaster
resilience of communities, among others
Importance of DRRM
 Asia and the Pacific are identified to have the most
number and highest frequency of disaster impact.
According to the Asian Development Bank (2014),
more than half of the world’s deaths and losses
occurred in the Asia- Pacific region between 1970 and
2012, and this accounted for 43% of the total global
socioeconomic losses
 Disaster loss does not only affect those directly
receiving its impact. Because almost all countries and
communities interact globally, everyone is affected by
one’s disaster loss. Hence, there is need for an effort
to reduce disaster risk by integrating policies, plans
and programs or sustainable development supported
through bilateral, regional and international
collaboration and partnerships
 DRRM should be given utmost priority, especially in
the Philippines, because of the following reasons:
1. The Philippines, by virtue of its geographical
location, is exposed to numerous geological and
hydrometeorological hazards. To lower the risks
of disasters brought by these natural hazards. It
is important that a DRRM be in place
2. The Philippines, being a developing country, may
not enough materials and support to address the
immediate needs of disaster victims and to
recover from the damage of the disaster. To be
prepared for the potential damage of disasters,
a DRRM needs to be implemented
3. DRRM is essential in building a more equitable
and sustainable future for the communities in
high risk areas of disasters
Importance of DRRM
 The key principles of DRRM justify why certain
changes have to be made (if any) and explain the
urgency of creating a DRRM plan
 Key principles should be able to make people
realize why disasters plans should find its
position at the top of the priority list of any
community that is vulnerable to any forms of
 hazards. Hence, all DRRM’s are created on the
following premises:
1. Development can either increase or decrease
disaster risk
2. DRRM policies, laws and regulations will not
save lives unless implemented in communities
3. The community is the front line of disaster risk
management
4. DRRM is not a stand- alone activity
5. The main objective of DRRM is to build a resilient
community
Elements of DRRM Plans
 A DRRM plan covers all stages of development
from planning all the way to execution. It also
incorporates feedback, recommendations and
guidance taken from various sectors of the
society. It is cyclic process of updating
information and plans to make the DRRM more
specific and suitable to the community.
 The following are the basic elements of a DRRM
plan, in order of execution
1. Assessment and analysis
 This is also known as the needs and risk assessment
Risks are identified and assessed based on the
following:
a) Hazard profile- likelihood, frequency, severity,
warning ang likely impact of the hazard(s).
b) Vulnerability of the area- exposure of the
community or other elements to the identified
hazard and how they could be affected, whether
directly or indirectly.
c) Capacity of the community- identification of all
available and accessible facilities and services
that can minimize or prevent the hazard from
turning into a disaster.
 The analysis of the gathered data can be done more
accurately with consultation from stakeholders and
professionals. These include the national and local
governments or agencies, educational institutions,
nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), private
sectors, households and communities.
2. Design  management plans before, during and after the
 This is modeled on the findings from the Assessment
and Analysis stage. It should include, at the
minimum, the following components:
a) Issues identified during the analysis;
b) Identification of responsibility, priorities and
competencies of individuals and institutions or
agencies carrying out the task;  effects (direct or indirect) to exposed elements and
c) Identification of other programs and strategies that
may complement, add or duplicate with other
programs;
d) Potential partners, allies and networks; and 
e) Source of funding and its restrictions
3. Results of implementation
 Implementing the DRRM plan is usually in the form pf
a drill. Regular implementation is important because
new conditions or unforeseen situations always arise
in communities because of their dynamism. The
outcome of the implementation should be properly
and accurately documented so that any necessary to
enhance the relationship of all sectors involved and
the efficiency of all their identified roles and services.
This becomes crucial during emergency situations as
priorities are usually done based on the established
relationship of the beneficiary of assistance.
Community- based DRRM
 A community- based DRRM is essential to develop,
implement and maintain an effective early warning
system in a hazard- prone community. Through a
community preparedness plan, the community is
informed and trained on how to prepare hazard
events and emergencies. For an effective community
preparedness plan, communities need to be actively
involved in it.
The key components of a community preparedness plan
are the following:
1. Community Profile
a) Identification of vulnerable communities
 This accounts for all communities within the area and
their levels of exposure to an identified hazard.
Community Profile
b) Manpower
1. Experts conducting risk assessment
2. Rescue team
 Trained personnel or experts are designated to form a
team for the following:
a) Search and rescue
b) Medical assistance
c) Relief distribution
3. .Relational connectivity with local authorities, NGOs,
etc.
2. Physical Infrastructure
 This is the identification of both vertical (buildings,
poles and trees) and horizontal (roads, cable wires,
pipes and bridges) infrastructure and natural
elements that may be affected or can cause disaster
from a hazard. Different hazards have different
effects on these structures that may cause disaster to
its users
 Factors that may determine the level of disaster risk
that these structures have are age and durability of
the structures, magnitude of potential hazard,
presence of other structures within its vicinity, type of
material and approximate number of people or
vehicles using the structure
3. Risk Assessment
 This assessment, done by the experts identified in the
Manpower section, includes comprehensive and
specific discussions on risk assessments, risk
reduction, disaster preparedness and risk
disaster. Basically, this section incudes the
identification of each potential hazard and the level of
disaster risk that the community has on each hazard.
 The guiding parameters in assessing the risks include
the following: vulnerability of the community to the
hazard, potential magnitude of the hazard (high scale
or low scale), duration to the community, causality of
reversibility of the potential disaster to the
community and other identified stakeholders.
4. Early Warning System (EWS)
 An early warning system (EWS) is the provision of
information about an imminent hazard that is likely to
affect a community. This may be in various forms of
communication (e.g., sound, symbol, letter) that can
be easily and immediately understood by all
stakeholders.
 The EWS should be short, distinct and clear so as not
to be confused with ordinary communication that
does not require urgent action. Most warning
systems involve alert levels that are distinguished
through colors. Red usually connotes imminent
danger.
5. Emergency Response Protocol
A. Search and rescue
 The rescuers should also be cognizant of potential
risks such as limited entry or exits, possible secondary
or multiple collapse of unstable structures, electrical
and gas hazards and water- borne diseases.
To ensure their safety, the rescuers should observe the
following:
1. Wear protective gear at all times.
2. Constantly monitor for vital signs. If there are signs of
exhaustion, the search and rescue operation schedule
should be adjusted, or the personnel be rotated. If
possible, additional people should be brought in.
3. Decontamination of rescuers and their equipment
should be done before leaving the rescue site to
prevent the spread of health or secondary
contamination.
B. Needs of survivors
 In the midst of losing properties and loved ones,
survivors need to address their basic needs: water,
food, shelter and health care. A well- planned DRRM
provides survivors with these needs.
1. Clean, potable water
2. Ready-to-eat food
3. Huge, secured and safe evacuation centers
4. Visible, accessible and equipped health care
providers
5. Debriefing
C. Survival kits and materials
 All families need to prepare at home a survival kit
that become a handy during disasters. This kit should
contain essential items, should be waterproof and
should be checked regularly for any expiring
medicines or materials.
D. General evacuation procedures
The following are general guidelines that need to be
remembered and followed in an evacuation:
1. Be aware of the emergency exits and warning calls of
the buildings you frequently go to.
2. When emergency alarms are sounded, keep calm and
try to keep others calm too.
3. Exit the buildings using the stairwell. NEVER use the
elevator.
4. If there is a DRRM personnel directing people on what
to do, follow his or her instructions to facilitate a
systematic and orderly evacuation or DRRM
procedure.
5. Once in the assembly area, notify authorities of
people who need assistance such as the injured,
trapped or disabled.
6. Never reenter the building unless it has been
declared safe by authorities.
6. Recovery Plans
 This is the process of gradually restoring the
community to return to its pre disaster level of
functioning. Remember that one of the principles of
DRRM id to build a resilient community. Having
recovery plans will give communities options for
rehabilitation of livelihood, restoration of social and
economic activities, advancement in development
projects and reconstruction of shelters and
infrastructure.
 Resilient communities have a proactive attitude
toward disaster. They view it as a learning process
instead of a destructive event, simply because they
are equipped with recovery plans.
7. Community Disaster Reduction Fund

 It is important to develop a comprehensive DRRM

plan to estimate and allocate funds for the
implementation of the plan before, during and after a
disaster. Aside from the various components
identified in each stage, a contingency fund is always
provided for expenses that are overlooked or an
allowance for inflation. All estimates of computation
should be conservative to allow for any changes in
fees and costs. Responsible management and
utilization of funds need to be strictly exercised in this
regard.