Hazard Protection – Actions taken before a hazard strikes to reduce its impact, such as educating people or improving building design

To remember the meaning of the term Hazard Protection, use the following mnemonic:

Man has hard time over protection (hazard protection) idea: His wife said they needed to protect against the next earthquake so he built a jelly house. It wasn't quite what she meant...

Measures that can help to protect people from the ravages of an earthquake or other natural hazard include:

• Monitor tectonic and weather activity to be able to predict major events
• Set up evacuation zones and routes
• Educate people about what they should do to prevent injury, loss of life and property
• Make all new buildings as earthquake-proof as possible, and strengthen existing buildings
• Ensure well-trained teams are in place ready for emergencies
• Reduce inequality and poverty in countries to ensure everyone has the same status and right to protection