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SUMMARY
introduction to mitigation concepts
The essential first step in
any mitigation strategy is to understand the nature of the hazards which may be
faced.
The list of hazards and their order of
importance is different for each country and region, and may even vary from
village to village. Existing studies and mapping may help to identify the most
significant hazards in any one area.
Understanding each hazard requires
comprehension of:
- its causes
- its geographical
distribution, magnitude or severity, and probable frequency of occurrence
-
the physical mechanisms of destruction
- the elements and activities most
vulnerable to destruction
- the possible economic and social consequences of
the disaster
Mitigation involves not only
saving lives and injury and reducing property losses, but also reducing the
adverse consequences of natural hazards to economic activities and social
institutions.
Where resources for mitigation are
limited, they should be targeted where they will be most effective - on the most
vulnerable elements and in support of existing community level activities.
Vulnerability assessment is a crucial
aspect of planning effective mitigation. Vulnerability implies both
susceptibility to physical and economic damage and lack of resources for rapid
recovery.
To reduce physical vulnerability weak
elements may be protected or strengthened. To reduce the vulnerability of social
institutions and economic activities, infrastructure may need to be modified or
strengthened or institutional arrangements
modified.
