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.