Notes For All Chapters – General Science Class 7
Disaster Management
1. Introduction
- A disaster is a sudden event that causes harm to people, animals, property, and the environment.
- Disasters can be natural (caused by nature) or man-made (caused by human activities).
- Disaster management means taking steps to prevent, prepare for, and respond to disasters.
2. Types of Disasters
(A) Natural Disasters
These are caused by natural forces and cannot be stopped, but their effects can be reduced.
| Type | Cause | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquake | Movement of tectonic plates | Buildings collapse, loss of life |
| Flood | Heavy rainfall, river overflow | Water damage, diseases |
| Tsunami | Underwater earthquake | Massive ocean waves, destruction of coastal areas |
| Cyclone (Hurricane) | High-speed winds over the ocean | Heavy rain, flooding, strong winds |
| Drought | Lack of rainfall | Water scarcity, famine |
| Volcanic Eruption | Magma escaping from the Earth’s crust | Lava flows, ash clouds, air pollution |
| Landslide | Heavy rain or earthquake loosens soil | Houses and roads buried under debris |
| Lightning | Electric discharge from clouds | Fire, injury, or death |
(B) Man-Made Disasters
These happen due to human activities or mistakes.
| Type | Cause | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Accidents | Gas leaks, short circuits, carelessness | Burns, destruction of property |
| Deforestation | Cutting trees for land and wood | Soil erosion, floods, loss of wildlife |
| Chemical Disasters | Industrial accidents, gas leaks | Pollution, health problems |
| Transport Accidents | Careless driving, technical faults | Injury and loss of life |
| Nuclear Accidents | Radiation leaks from power plants | Cancer, genetic disorders |
3. Effects of Disasters
- Loss of human life and property (homes, buildings, roads).
- Damage to crops and water sources, leading to food shortages.
- Disruption of transportation and communication systems.
- Spread of diseases due to polluted water and poor sanitation.
4. Disaster Management – How to Reduce the Impact of Disasters?
Disaster management includes prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.
(A) Prevention and Preparedness (Before a Disaster)
- Early warning systems to predict disasters like cyclones and tsunamis.
- Building strong houses in earthquake-prone areas.
- Planting trees to prevent soil erosion and floods.
- Storing food, water, and medicines in case of emergencies.
- Educating people about safety measures.
(B) Response (During a Disaster)
- Evacuating people from danger zones.
- Providing emergency aid, food, and medical help.
- Using trained rescue teams for rescue operations.
(C) Recovery (After a Disaster)
- Rebuilding houses, roads, and infrastructure.
- Helping affected people with financial and medical support.
- Restoring communication and electricity.
5. Safety Measures During Different Disasters
(A) Earthquake Safety
✔ Stay under a strong table or inside a doorway.
✔ Move to an open area away from buildings.
✔ Turn off gas and electricity to prevent fire.
(B) Flood Safety
✔ Move to higher ground immediately.
✔ Store clean drinking water and dry food.
✔ Avoid walking in floodwaters to prevent infections.
(C) Lightning Safety
✔ Stay indoors, away from trees and water bodies.
✔ Do not use mobile phones or electrical appliances.
✔ Avoid metal objects like bicycles and umbrellas.
(D) Cyclone Safety
✔ Listen to weather warnings and evacuate if needed.
✔ Stay away from glass windows to avoid injury.
✔ Store food, water, and emergency kits.
(E) Fire Safety
✔ Turn off gas stoves and electrical appliances.
✔ Use a fire extinguisher if available.
✔ Stop, drop, and roll if clothes catch fire.
6. Government Role in Disaster Management
- The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in India helps in disaster relief.
- The government sets up rescue teams, provides funds, and builds shelters.
- Organizations like the Red Cross and UNDP provide international disaster aid.
7. How Can We Help in Disaster Management?
✔ Spread awareness about disaster safety in schools and communities.
✔ Donate food, clothes, and money to disaster relief organizations.
✔ Participate in mock drills to learn emergency procedures.
✔ Follow disaster warnings and help others during emergencies.
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