Welcome to Lesson 4: Safety and Security

Topic 1: Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

INTRODUCTION:
Every year, millions of people around the world are affected by either human
caused or natural disasters. Disasters take different forms, like volcano eruptions,
earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornados, or fires. In a disaster, people face the danger
of death or physical injury. They may also lose their home, possesions, and community
where they live in. Disaster can cause a full range of mental and physical reactions. Those
affected may also react to problems that occur after the event, as well as to triggers or
reminders of the trauma.

Gaining full information about Disaster Management is important in dealing with

man-made and natural disasters. Natural disasters are inevitable, however, with the
modern technology; we could prepare and minimize the damage that it will cause to our
lives and properties. Likewise, man-made disasters can be prevented if the community
will be more careful and be oriented properly on what they can do in times of the crises.

According to the United Nations Disasters Relief Office (UNDRO), there is an

increasing number of people who are affected by disasters all over the world. Not only
are the poorest of the countries are afflicted with disasters but also the richest countries
in the world. In the Philippines, poor communities are the ones to suffer most damages
brought about by disasters and calamities.

In this lesson, one will be introduced to the current Phillippine disaster situation,
how our government, local sectors and private institution work together for a cohesive
Disaster Risk Reduction Management Program.

FOCUS:

At the end of the lesson, the students will be able to:

1. Generate new ideas, key concepts and principles of Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management.
2. Recognize hazards brought by disasters and apply disaster risk reduction and
management when needed.
3. Analyze the current disaster situation in the Phillipines

1
PRE-ASSESSMENT: LESSON 4 – Topic 1

Directions:

Indicate on the space provided whether each of the following item is a hazard or a
disaster.

______________1. A super typhoon with storm surge affecting Leyte and Samar.
______________2. A typhoon passing over a remote and unpopulated island.
______________3. A flood in rural are which floods the roads but does not affect
any houses.
______________4. A volcano erupting in isolation in the middle of the Pacific
Ocean.
______________5. An avalanche in a ski resort.
______________6. An avalanche high on the mountain and slopes remote from
any settlement.
______________7. A tsunami wave 5 m high off the coast of Japan.
______________8. An earthquake in Bohol, Philippines.
______________9. A drought in Australia’s Outback (vast, remote, arid interior of
Australia)
______________10. A landslide in a favela (slum area) in Rio de Janeiro.

EXPLORING ACTIVITY:
During a disaster, you may have to evacuate quickly. You might not have time to
gather all the supplies you need. That is why it is important to make a disaster supplies
kit. Remember to pack enough food, water, and supplies to last for three days for each
person in your family. Place the supplies into a duffel bag or a backpack.

Make a list of supplies / items you need to have in your disaster supplies kit and
explain the reason of choosing that certain supplies/items.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

2
FIRMING – UP:
The previous activities will lead you to this questions, when does a disaster occur?
Can we prevent disasters from happening? The frequency of disasters due, for instance,
to typhoons, floods, and drought, has been increasing. Could this be a reflection of an
increasing frequency of hazards events? Does mere occurrence of strong earthquakes,
super typhoons, or tsunamis automatically qualify as disaster? All these questions will
be answered in the succeeding discussion.

DEEPENING DETAILS:

Definition of Disaster and Disaster Risk

Disaster is defined as “ a sudden, calamitous event, bringing great damage, loss

destruction and devastation to life and property “(Asian Disaster Preparedness Center –
ADPC, 2012). Its origin can be natural, such as earthquakes, floods and hurricanes, or
of human origin such as explosions, nuclear accidents and terrorist acts.

From a socio-cultural perspectives, disaster is defined as “a serious disruption of

the functioning of society, causing widespread human, material or environmental losses,
which exceed the ability of the affected people to cope, using their human resources.”
(Adelman,2011).

Relative to disaster, a salient factor that needs to be addressed properly is

disaster risk. Disaster Risk is defined as the “probability that a community’s structure
or geographic area is to be damaged or disrupted by the impact of a particular hazard, on
account of its nature, construction and proximity to a hazardous area” (ADPC,12). In other
words, disaster risk signifies the possibility of adverse effects in the future. It is derived
from the interaction of social and envinronmental processes, from the combination of
physical hazards and the vulnerability of exposed elements.

Nature of Disasters

Disasters are of two types – ‘natural’ and ‘human-made’. Based on the

devastation, these are further classified into major or minor natural disasters and major
or minor man-made disasters.

3
 Natural disasters – These originate from the different “forces” of nature
(geological, meteorological, hydrometeorological and biological). Natural disaster such as
earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons, and cyclones affect many countries in Asia
particulary Philippines.

Human-made disasters – These disasters occur due to people’s actions against

human, material and environment. These include transport and industries accidents, such
as, air and train crashes, chemical spills, and building collapses. Terrosim is also
categorized as human-made disaster.

Types of Disasters

Disaster can take many different forms and the duration can range from an hour
to days or weeks of ongoing destruction. Below is a list of the various types of disasters,
both natural and human-made or technological in nature that can impact a community.
(Hewith and Burt0n, 1971)

Natural Types of Disasters

 Agricultural Disease and pests

 Storm Surge
 Drought and water shortage – El Niño
 Earthquakes
 Hurricanes and tropical storms
 Landslide and debris flow
 Thunderstorms and lightning
 Tornadoes
 Tsunamis
 Wildfires
 Sinkholes
 Emergency disease (pandemic influenza)
 Extreme heat
 Floods and flash flood
 La Niña

4
Human-Made and Technological Types of Disasters

 Hazardous materials
 Power service disruption and blackout
 Nuclear power plant and nuclear blast
 Radiological emergencies
 Chemical threat and biological weapons
 Cyber attacks
 Explosion

5
  Civil Unrest

Disaster from Different Perspectives

A disaster is a result of a vast ecological breakdown in the relation between
humans and their environment; a serious or sudden event on such a scale that the
stricken community needs extraordinary efforts to cope with it, often with outside help or
international aid.

Disaster is analyzed from different perspectives as follows:

Physical Perspective

From this view disaster is defined as phenomenon that can cause damage to
physical elements such as buildings, infrastructures, including people and their
properties, e.g. houses and environmental sources of living. Physical effects are the most
visible and quantifiable effects of a disaster. In assessing the aftermath of a disaster,
physical damages are essentially considered in data recording. Assessment of disaster
is focused on the following common questions:
How many families are affected? (Displacement, injury, death)

6
 How many houses are damaged or washed out? (in case of super typhoons)
How many buildings collapsed or are damaged? (in case of an earthquake)
How many roads, bridges, dams and other infrastructures are damaged? (in case
of floods, lahar flows and earthquake)
What is the extent of damage in agricultural industry? (crops losses, damaged fish
cages, washed out rice field, etc.)

Psychological Perspective

Psychological research has shown that disasters can cause serious mental health
consequences for victims. These consequences take the form of Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) and a variety of other disorders and symptoms which
have been less investigated. The more stress, defined in a variety of ways, within
the disaster, the more likely there are to be emotional consequences.
Other psychological effects of a disaster are the following:
 Emotional Effects: Shock, terror, irritability, blame, anger, guilt, grief or
sadness, numbling, helplessness, loss of pleasure derived from a familiar
activities, difficulty feeling happy, difficulty feeling loved.
 Cognitive effects: Impaired concentration, impaired decision-making ability,
memory impairment, disbelief, confusion, nightmares, decreased self-esteem,
decreased self-efficacy.
 Physical effects; Fatigue, exhaustion, insomnia, cardiovascular starin, starle
response, hyper arousal, increased physical pain, reduced immune response,
headaches, gastrointestinal upset, decreased appetite, deacreased libido,
vulnerability of illness.

Socio-Cultural Perspective

What the people living at risk know and do about natural hazards and disaster risks
is mediated by a range of factors including social conditions (such as age, gender, wealth,
and ethnicity) and cultural settings (language, beliefs, traditions, customs). In most places
people are also more or less exposed by information and ideas coming the “outside” –
the world outside their own cultural setting. At the same time, the field of natural hazards
and disaster has developed its own debates, frameworks, and notions such as
vulnerability, resilience and risk.

Hence, from the socio-cultural pointof view, a disasters analyzed based on how
people respond having as parameter their social conditions and cultural settings. These
two factors are important determinants of the degree of risk., resilience and vulnerability
of those affected. That is why some ethnic groups can easily cope with disasters
compared to other groups.

Economic Perspective

From an economic perspective, a natural disaster can be defined as a natural

event that causes a perturbation to the functioning of economic system, with a significant
negative impact on assets, production factors, output, employment and consumption.

7
One salient component of assessing then impact of disaster impact from this view is
defining direct economic cost and indirect losses.

Direct economic cost is the value of what has been damaged or destroyed by the
disaster. This should be seriously considered in disaster risk management and
assessment. However, to get the whole picture indirect losses is crucial in assessing
disaster seriousness. This is done by evaluating the main direct consequences of a
disaster. One example is when a head of family losses a job due to isolation or the
workplace itself is affected. The value of losses is measure vis-à-vis time period and
salary including perks and allowances.

Political Perspective

From this view, natural disasters are commonly though top be less politically
contentious than armed conflicts. Yet, a closer look reveals that politics are deeply
wedded to both the impact of a natural disaster and the subsequent delivery of
humanitarian assistance. Political considerations before, during and after a natural
disaster can determine who is most at risk, who can intervene, what actions will be taken,
and who will benefit from those actions.

Governmentality or deliverance of government services to constituents can be a

plus or minus factor in disaster risk reduction and management. Government
interventions should be present in following phases of Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management.

Environmental Perspectives

Disasters are not random and do not occur by accident. They are the convergence
of hazards and vulnerable conditions. Disasters not only reveal underlying social,
economic, political and environmental problems, but unfortunately contribute to
worsening them. Such events pose serious challenges to development, as they erode
hard earned gains in terms of political, social and educational progress, as well as
infrastructure and technological development. The millennium declaration recognizes the
risk to development stemming from disaster and calls on the global community to
“intensify our collective efforts to reduce the number and effects of natural hazards and
man-made disaster”.

Impacts of Disasters

8
Disasters often result from the failure to anticipate the timing and enormity of natural
hazards. Little lead time is left to take preparedness actions such as evacuation and
strengthening of structures, Disasters do not only result in deaths and destruction or
damage to homes and buildings but also in the destruction of crops and decreased quality
or quantity of water. Apart from these effects, let us take a look at the other impacts of
disasters.

Medical effects. The medical effects of disasters include traumatic injuries,

emotional stress, epedemic diseases, and indigenous disease.

Damage to critical facilities. Widespread disasters can destroy or damage

facilities that may be critical not only in maintaining a safe environment and public order,
but also in responding to the disaster. Among these are communication installations,
electrical generating and transmission facilities, hospitals, water facilities (storage,
purifications, and pumping), and other public and private buildings.

Disruption of transportation. During the initial stages of a disaster, almost all

surface means of transportation within a community are disrupted by broken bridges and
roads and streets that are rendered impassable by landslides or floods. The restricted
mobility of vehicles makes rescue and other emergency operations doubly difficult.

Economic impact. As a result of the destruction and damage to critical facilities,

especially to transportation and communication facilities, disasters disrupt economies as
normal business operations and other economic activities are curtailed.

Global environmental change. There is increasing evidence of global climatic

change brought about by both human activity and disasters. Although the long-range
consequences are hard to predict, more severe cyclonic storms, an increase in both
flooding and drought, and a trends towards desertification cannot be ruled out.

Social and political impact. As a large segment of the population in developing

countries consists the poor, who are most vulnerable whenever a disaster strikes, these
countries are most affected. The poor are most prone to disasters like earthquakes and
typhoons because of the structures they live in which are unreinforced and poorly built.

How and When an Event Becomes a Disaster

An event, either human-made or natural, becomes a disaster when it is sudden or

progressive, causing widespread human, material or environmental losses. A typhoon
like Yolanda is a natural phenomenon. It became a disaster due to several factors: its
strength (290 km./hour); the storm surge it brought was sudden and unexpected; and its
devastating effect to human, material, and environment. More than 7,000 people
perished. The entire City of Tacloban was literally flattened to the ground.

Another example is Typhoon Ondoy that struck the country in 2009. The
Philippines is visited by typhoons on the average of 20 every year. Hence, typhoons are
considered as natural events in this country. However, Typhoon Ondoy turned into a
disaster because of the amount of precipitation brought by its torrential rains that lasted

9
for several days causing floods and flash floods in Metro Manila. Thousands of houses
were submerged in flood water. Hundreds of shelters along river banks and esteros were
washed out. Power and water supplies were cut off for several weeks. Hundred of lives
perished.

A television program like Wowowie, hosted by Willie Revillame, apopular singer-

commedian was a common social event in the Philippine entertainment world. It became
so popular that thousands of fans flock to ULTRA (a huge event venue during that time)
to watch the noon time variety show every day, except Sundays. That event turned out to
a disastrous tragedy when there was a human-induced disturbanced among the watching
crowd that caused a stampeded. Many spectators were hurt and some even died which
led to the dissolution of said TV program.

When is Vulnerability?

Vulnerability is defined as “the characteristics and circumstances of a community,

system or asset that make it susceptible to the damaging effects of a hazard”. As indicated
by United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), “there are
many aspects of vulnerability arising from various physical, social, economic, and
environmental factors. Examples may include poor design and construction of buildings,
inadequate protection of assets, lack of public information and awareness, limited official
recognition of risks and preparedness measures, and disregard for wise environmental
management”.

Reasons Why Certain Sectors of Society are More Vulnerable to Disaster than
Others

Vulnerability can be seen as the result of a process in which various different

things cause a population to be more vulnerable. These can be split into demographic
and socio-economic. They can also be discussed through the level of community
preparedness and the ability of a community to manage the after effects of a hazard
event.

1. Demographic factors

Population density – The more dense the population, the more efficient a response
should be, considering the number of people that might be affected by a disaster.
Densely populated cities like Manila and Quezon City require some amount of
education on disaster preparedness, government support and relief operations in the
event of a disaster.

Age of population – Very old and very young populations are less mobile and able
to respond to hazard events well. This makes them more vulnerable compared to
others, and this requires more attention from the government and other support
agencies especially during emergency evacuation or relocation.

Distribution of population – regardless of density, populations may be distributed

differently within the hazard area, e.g. elderly people on lower floors of apartment

10
buildings, or concentrations of highly vulnerable people in poorer areas of a city. This
must be seriously considered in human settlement planning and relocation activities
of the government.

2. Socio-economic factors

Wealth –Low income populations are less likely to be well prepared. Part of
preparations is having a Survival Kit that includes tools to used, emergency food stock
and water that could last for at least 3 to 5 days. Poor families will find a hard time to
do such preparation due to lack of money to spend.

Education – Education programs such as Metro Manila Development Authority

(MMDA) shake drill can instruct populations on how to deal with hazards events, like
the “Big One” – the anticipated 7.8 magnitude earthquake that may strike Metro Manila
anytime.

Nature of society – In highly centralized government structures, efficient emergency

response may be result of careful planning and training of personnel.

Understanding of the area – Recent migrants are likely to struggle to cope with
hazards effects compared to established population. Understanding the area is a
salient factor to be considered in Disaster Preparedness Planning, and this will give
greater advantage to the established or original settlers in a particular area affected
by disaster.

3. Community preparedness

Building codes – Rigorous and applied building codes protect most buildings from
collapse during earthquake.

Scientific monitoring and early warning systems – Established monitoring system

can prepare people for the onslaught of any kind of disaster. The coming of Super
Typhoon Yolanda was forecasted by PAGASA. However, the magnitude storm surge
that it caused was not effectively predicted due to lack of advanced monitoring
equipment and technology.

Communication networks – countries with good quality and widespread

communication network allow messages to be quickly shared.

Emergency Planning – Preparation is the key element of prevention for a disaster is

embodied in an Emergency Plan. Where monitoring and communication are in place,
the emergency planning likely to prepare a person or a group (family) for such events
and take action based on data, rather than prediction.

4. Dealing with the after-effects

Insurance cover – Another important aspect of preparation is how to deal with the
after effects of a disaster. Disasters, like earthquakes and typhoons, normally inflict

11
 damages to life, property and even to environmental sources of living. Part of their
preparation, individuals purchase insurance policies to mitigate their losses, thus
preparing them better for similar future events.

Emergency personnel – These are trained for community preparedness. The

availability of such personnel will vary depending on the time of day and location of
the event.

Aid request – outside help in the form of humanitarian aid is necessary during a
disaster. However, it should be fasy and efficient.

Elements at Risk and Exposed to Hazards

Persons, houses, buildings, infrastructures, transportation system, financial

establishment, crops, environmental sources of living, and others like societal
components exposed to known hazard, which are likely to be adversely affected by the
impact of a hazard.

Risk Factors

Risk signifies the possibility of adverse effects in the future. It is derived from the
interaction of social and environmental processes, from the combination of physical
hazards and the vulnerabilities of exposed elements.

12
 Fig. 1 – Triagram of Disaster Risk

(Source: Geoscience, Australia

Earthquake
Tsunami Engineering
Floods Economic
Cyclones Social
Bushfires
Landslides
Volcanoes

Exposure
People
Buildings
Businesses
Infrastructure

This diagram illustrates the concept of risk which combines an understanding of

the likehood of a hazardous event occurring with an assessment of its impact where:
Risk = Hazard x Exposure x Vulnerability
Capacity

The left side of the Triagram shows the different natural hazards that may occur in
an area at any given period of time. The base of the triagram indicates the different
elements exposed to hazard/disaster. On the right side, factors and elements of
vulnerability are presented.

Philippine Vulnerabilities to Natural Disasters

The following bullet statement explain why the Philippines is vulnerable to natural
disaster specifically from the effects of Climate Change (Climate Change Primer
Manuscript, 2014):

 The Philippines lies in the Pacific typhoon belt and we are visited by an
average of 20 typhoons every year.

13
 The rugged nature of our landscape makes our communities very
vulnerable to landslides, mudflows and other disasters.

 The Philippines is an archipelagic country with many small islands.

 Many of our areas are also at or below sea level, and this makes us
vulnerable to flooding and worst, inundation with rise in sea level.

 With one of the longest coastlines in the world at 32,400 kilometers, we

have many areas that are vulnerable to storm surges.

 The Philippines is still a primarily agricultural and fishing economy.

Disruptions in agricultural and fishery production and destruction of our
ecosystems will have devastating effects on our economy and food security.

 Natural hazard risk is compounded in the Philippines bby poor institutional

and societal capacity to manage, respond and recover from natural hazard
events.

 The Philippines is considered “high risk” in terms of the country’s ability to

manage and mitigate the impacts of natural hazard and in part due to
“entrenched corruption and high levels of poverty” (Rappler, 2014)

 Aside from being at risk to typhoons, the Philippines is also at risk to

volcanic eruptions (we have active volcanoes), quakes (several fault lines
are identified) and flood (we have denuded mountains).

14
Hazards

Hazards are “those elements of the physical environment, harmful to man and
caused by forces extraneous to him.” (Burton et al 1978)

Standards Australia (2000) defines a hazard as:

“A source of potential harm or a situation with a potential to cause loss.”

Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) describes hazard as:

“A natural event that has the potential to cause harm or loss.”

General Classification of Hazards

There are many different ways of classifying hazards. One is to consider the extent
to which hazards are natural.

1. Natural hazards such as earthquakes or floods arise from purely natural

processes in the environment.
2. Quasi-natural hazards such as smog or desertification that arise through the
interaction of natural processes and human activities.
3. Technological (or human-made) hazards such as the toxicity of pesticides to
agricultural lands, accidental leaks of chemicals from chemical laboratories or

15
 radiation from a nuclear plant. These arise directly as a result of human
activities.

Earthquake Hazards

What is an earthquake?

An Earthquake (also known as a quake, tremor or temblor) is the perceptible

shaking of the surface of the Earth, resulting from the sudden release of energy in the
Earth’s crust that creates seismic waves. (US Geological Science – USGS).

The following are different hazards that normally result from the occurrence of an
earthquake:

1. Ground Shaking or Ground Motion

2. Ground or Surface Rupture
3. Liquefaction
4. Earthquake -induced ground subsidence and lateral spreading
5. Tsunami
6. Earthquake-induced Landslides

Natural Signs of an Impending Tsunami

1. Animal Behavior
Some zoologist hypothesize that some animal special like elephants have the
ability to sense subsonic Rayleigh waves from an earthquake or a tsunami.

16
 2. Drawback
This is an observable natural sign of an impending tsunami that is noteworthy. In
fact, drawback can serve as a brief warning. There are already proofs that people
who observed drawback survived when they immediately run for high ground or
climbed to upper floors of nearby buildings.

What to Do Before, During and After an Earthquake

Before an Earthquake

1. Engage yourself in training activities that promote safety and disaster

preparedness.
2. Participate in government-initiated earthquake drills and evacuation drills.
3. Some private companies provide training on emergency response skills.
Participate. This is part of your preparation.
4. Share your acquired knowledge and skills to your family and friends.

During an Earthquake

1. Stay indoors if you are within a structurally sound building or home.

2. If you feel building were not safe, quickly open the door for exit.
3. If you’re caught inside a room or building, duck under a sturdy desk or table,
and hold on to it, or protect your head with your hands or arms.
4. Stay away from glass windows, shelves, cabinets and other heavy objects.
5. Beware of falling objects. Be alert and keep your eyes open.
6. Meanwhile, those who are outside should move to an open area, and follow
these safety measures (PHIVOLCS):
 Stay away from trees, power lines, post, and concrete structures.
 Move away from steep slopes which may be affected by landslides.
 If near the shore and feeling an earthquake, especially a strong one, quickly
move to higher grounds in anticipation of possible tsunamis.

17
 7. Those who are in a moving vehicle should stop and get out. Do not attempt to
cross bridges, overpasses, or flyovers which may have been damaged.

After an Earthquake

Immediately after an earthquake:

1. Take the fastest and safest way out of the building

2. Do not use elevators
3. Do not enter damaged buildings
4. Do not use telephones unless necessary
5. Most of all, do not panic

Volcanic Hazards

Various Volcano-Related Hazards

Volcanologist are always working to understand how volcanic hazards behave,

and what can be done to avoid them, USGS Bulletin enumerates a few of the more
common volcanic hazards, and some of the ways in which they are formed and behave.
These are the following:

Lahar

Lahars are a specific kind of mudflow made up of volcanic debris. They can form
in a number of situations, namely:

1. When small slope collapses gather water on their way down a volcano.
2. Through rapid melting of snow and ice during an eruption.
3. From heavy rainfall on loose volcanic debris.
4. When a volcano erupts through a crater lake
5. When a crater lake drains because of overflow or wall collapse.

18
Ash Fall

Volcanic ash consists of fragments of pulverized rock, minerals and volcanic glass,
created during volcanic eruptions and measuring less than2 mm (0.079 inches) in
diameter. The term volcanic ash is also often loosely used to refer to all explosive eruption
products (correctly referred to as tephra), including particles larger than 2mm. Volcanic
ash is formed during explosive volcanic eruptions when dissolved gases in magma
expand and escape violently into the atmosphere.

Volcanic Gases

Magma contains dissolved gases, which provide the driving force that causes most
volcanic eruptions. As magma rises towards the surface and pressure decreases, gases
are released from liquid portion of the magma (melt) and continue to travel upward and
are eventually released into the atmosphere.

Lava Flows

Lava flows are streams of molten rock that pour or ooze from an erupting vent.
Lava is erupted during either non-explosive activity or explosive lava fountains.

Precautionary measures before, during and after volcanic eruption

There are dangers that volcanic eruptions pose to people so it is important that
they know how to handle situations before, during and after volcanic eruptions to avoid
serious problems. The following are precautionary measures before, during, and after
volcanic eruptions that may help save lives: (adopted from PHIVOLCS’ Emergency
Advisiory)

Before volcanic eruption:

1. Be aware of the dangers that volcanic eruptions pose to lives and be prepared
to face whatever circumstances the eruption may bring.
2. Prepare all necessary things to bring once evacuation is needed. Those in
danger zones are warmed when to evacuate. Once given the signal obey
instructions. Refusing to evacuate will pose more serious problems.
3. Store as much food, water, light sources and batteries that are very useful in
case of emergency.
4. Volcanic eruptions have ash falls so be prepared for masks or anything to cover
nose and mouth.
5. Prioritize the safety of children and the elderly before other things, Take them
to relatives who are far from the volcano, and let them stay there until volcanic
emergency subsides.

19
 During volcanic eruption:

1. Avoid all low-lying places because lava flows and mudflows are more likely to
pass here.
2. Seek cover in case of pyroclastic falls and ballistic projectiles.
3. Use masks and cover mouth and nose to avoid breathing in ashes.
4. If inside a house, close all doors and windows to avoid ashes from getting
inside. Stay indoors.
5. If evacuated, stay in the evacuation center until further instructions. Do not
attempt to leave the place unless told to do.

After volcanic eruption:

1. Check house and place if already safe

2. Clean everything around and check all damages incurred
3. Use masks while cleaning ash and other debris
4. Wait for further announcements related to the volcano activities
5. Make sure that house is still safe for the whole family

Other Geological Hazards and their Causes

Discussed below are other geological hazards and their causes as defined by the
US Geological Science (USGS):

Rainfall-Induced Landslide

A landslide is a massive outward and downward movement of slope-forming

materials. The term landslide is restricted to movements of rocks and soil masses. These
masses may range in size up to entire mountainsides. Their movements may vary in
velocity. A landslide is initiated when a section of a hill slope or sloping section of a sea
bed is rendered too weak to support its own weight. This is generally triggered by other
natural hazards such as prolonged, heavy rainfall or by other sources of water which
increase the water content of the slope materials.

20
Causes of Landslide

Landslides occur when the slope changes from a stable to an unstable condition.
A change in the stability of a slope can be caused by a number of factors, acting together
or alone.

Natural causes of landslides include:

 Groundwater (pore water) pressure acting to destabilize the slope

 Loss or absence of vertical vegetative structure, soil nutrients, and soil
structure (e.g. after a wildfire)
 Erosion of the toe of a slope by rivers or ocean waves
 Weakening of a slope through saturation by snow melt, glaciers melting, or
heavy rains
 Earthquakes adding loads to barely stable slope
 Earthquake-cause liquefaction destabilizing slopes
 Volcanic eruptions

Landslides are also aggravated by human activities, such as:

 Deforestation, cultivation and construction, which destabilize the already

fragile slopes
 Vibrations from machinery or traffic
 Blasting (e.g. as miners or traffic)
 Earthwork which alters the shape of a slope, or which imposes new loads
on an existing slope
 In shallow soils, the removal of deep-rooted vegetation that binds colluvium
to bedrock (e.g. kaingin farming system)
 Construction works, agricultural or forestry activities (e.g.logging) which
change the amount of water infiltrating the soil.

Mitigation Strategies to Prevent Loss of Lives and Properties in Case of Landslide

Before a landslide

 It’s good to secure clearance from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau
(MGB) on staus of possible landslides.
 Help prepare the member of the family for evacuation upon the direction of
proper authorities
 Maintain a list of contact numbers during emergencies
 Participate in planting grasses to cover slopes or in building riprap to
prevent soil erosion
 Participate in regular drills on evacuation procedures
 Help promote public awareness and involvement on lanslides mitigation
 Help develop family preparedness and evacuation plan.

21
 During a landslide

 Evacuate immediately if warned of an impending lanslides or mudflow/

 Stay away from the path of landslide debris, or seek refuge behind a sturdy
tree or boulder.
 Get out of house as soon as possible when rumbling sounds are heard from
upstream or the trembling of the ground is felt, indicating a possible
mudflow.
 Run across a slope, not downwards.

After a landslides

 Examine thoroughly the damaged parts and utilities of the house before re-
occupying it.
 Stay away from the landslide area. There may be danger of additional
landslides.
 Help check with caution injured and trapped persons within the landslide
area and direct rescuers to their locations.
 Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency
information
 Help in seeking the advice of a geotechnical expert to evaluate landslide
hazards or design corrective measures to reduce landslide risk.

Potential Hydrometeorological Hazards

The following are the most common hydrometeorological hazards as defined by

the National oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):

Cyclone

A cyclone is an intense low pressure system which is characterized by strong

spiral winds towards the center, called the “Eye” in a counter-clockwise flow in the
northern hemisphere. Hazards due to tropical cyclones are strong winds with heavy
rainfall that can cause widespread flooding/flash floods, storm surges, landslides and
mudflows.

Classification of Cyclone

 Tropical Deprresion – maximum winds from 35 kilometers per hour (kph)

to 63 kph
 Tropical Storm – maximum winds from 64 kph to 118 kph
 Typhoon – maximum winds exceeding 118 kph

22
Typhoon

A typhoon is a large, powerful and violent tropical cyclone. It is a low pressure

area rotating counterclockwise and containing rising warm air that forms over water in the
Western Pacific Ocean. Less powerful tropical cyclones are call Tropical Depressions and
Tropical Storms. A typhoon is called a hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean, a cyclone in the
Indian Ocean and wily-wily in Australia. Typhoons can inflict terrible damge due to
thunderstorms, violent winds, torrential rain, fllods, landslides, large and very big waves
associated with storm surges. Hurricane-force winds can reach out as little as 40 km from
the center of a small hurricane and as far as 240 km in a large hurricane. Tropical storm-
force winds can extend as far as 480 km from the center of large hurricane. These are
very dangerous storms.

Thunderstom
A thunderstorm is a weather condition that produces lightning and thunder, heavy
rainfall from cumulonimbus clouds and possibly a tornado. It is a violent local atmospheric
disturbances accompanied by lightning, thunder, and heavy rain often by strong gusts of
wind, and sometimes by hail. The typical thunderstorm caused by convection occurs
when the sun’s warmth has heated a large body of moist air near the ground. This air
rises and is cooled by expansion. The cooling condenses the water vapor present in the
air, forming a cumulus cloud. The turbulent air current within the cloud causes a continual
breaking up and reuniting of the rain drops, which may form hail, and builds up strong
electrical charges that result in lightning.

Tornado
A tornado is described as a violently rotating column of air extending from a
thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes come in many sizes but are typically in the form
of a visible condensation funnel whose narrow end touches the earth and is often
encircled by a cloud of debris. It can have a wide range of colors depending on the
environment. Typically, tornadoes may appear nearly transparent and invisible until dust
and debris are picked up. Tornadoes develop from severe thunderstorm in warm,
unstable air along and ahead of cold fronts. It starts from a change in direction, an
increase in wind speed with increasing height and a rise from within the thunderstorm
which triggers the rotation of wind from horizontal to vertical.
Flash flood
A flash flood is a rapid flooding of geomorphic low lying areas like washes, rivers,
dry lakes and basins. It may be caused by heavy rain associated with a severe
thunderstorm, hurricane, tropical storm, or melt water from ice or snow flowing over ice
sheets or snowfields. Flash floods may occur after the collapse of natural ice or debris
dam, or a human structure such as a man-made dam. Flash floods are distinguished from
regular floods by a timescale of less than six hours. The water that is temporarily available

23
is often used by foliage with rapid germination and short growth cycles, and by specially
adapted animal life.
Flood
Flood is the inundation of land areas which are not normally covered by water. A
flood is usually caused by a temporary rise or the over-flowing of a river, stream, or other
water course, inundating adjacent lands or flood-plains. It could also be due to a
temporary rise of lakes, oceans or reservoirs and or other enclosed bodies of water,
inundating border lands due to heavy and prolonged rainfall associated with tropical
cyclones, monsoons, inter-tropical convergence zones or active low pressure areas.
Floods are basically hydrological phenomena and they are also caused by storm surges,
and tsunami along coastal areas. Several factors contribute to flooding. Two key elements
are rainfall intensify and duration. Intensify is the rate of rainfall, and duration is how long
the rain lasts. Flooding occurs in known floodplains when prolonged rainfall over several
days, intense rainfall over a short period of time, or a debris jam causes a river or stream
to overflow and flood the surrounding area.

Storm Surge

Storm surge is a rise of seawater above normal sea level on the coast, generated
by the action of weather elements, such as cyclonic wind and atmospheric pressure. Sea
level is raised and driven towards the coast. Where the depth is shallow and the slope of
the sea bed is gradual, the natural flow of the water is delayed by affect of friction on the
sea bed. As more water moves from the sea to the coast excess water piles up on the
shore line. This pilling up of water makes a large volume of water which might eventually
flow into the hinterland some distance from the coast. Depending upon then shape of the
coastline and the slope of the sea bed, storm surge can sweep across large portions of
coastal areas.

El Niño and La Niña

El Niño and La Niña are complex weather patterns resulting from variations in
ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific. These two phenomena are opposites
phases of what is known El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle. The ENSO cycle is
a scientific term that describes the fluctuations in temperature between the ocean and
atmosphere in the east-central Equatorial Pacific.

La Niña is sometimes referred to as the cold phase of ENSO and El Niño as the
warm phase of ENSO. These deviations from normal surface temperatures can have
large scale impacts not only on ocean processes, but also on global weather and climate.

El Niño and La Niña episodes typically last nine to 12 months, but some prolonged
events may last for years. While their frequency can be quite irregular, El Niño and La

24
Niña events occur on average every two to seven years. Typically, El Niño occurs more
frequently than La Niña.

Preparedeness and Mitigation

The following preparedness and mitigation strategies are adopted from the
Department of Education’s Disaster Risk Reduction Resource Manual issued on 2008:

A. Typhoon

Preparedness (What to do before):

 Establish and maintain coordination with Barangay Disaster Coordinating

Councils (BDCC) and personnel.
 Ensure that house can withstand heavy rain and strong winds. House built
at ground level may be anchored by guy wires to strengthen the stability of
the structure.
 Learn more abouth typhoon and other weather disturbances, their signs and
warnings, effects and dangers and how to protect house and other
properties.
 Learn something relevant to mitigation and preparedness for tropical
cyclones
 Participate actively in the school’s disaster response – drill or simulation.

Response (What to do during)

 Monitor through radio or other reliable sources the latest official report of
PAGASA on the typhoon.
 When houses is no longer safe, evacuate immediately to safer place like
evacuation centers or house of relatives that are proven stable and can
withstand strong wind and rain.
 Stay indoors and away from windows
 Keep an open line of coomunication with relatives that are not affected to
keep them posted
 Ensure that members of the family will remain calm by keeping them
informed of the latest developments.

Rehabilitation (What to do after)

 Help in attending to victims immediately. For minor cuts and wounds apply
first aid.
 In case of major cuts and wounds, seek necessary medical assistance at
disaster station or hospital
 Help in checking the house for damages and losses. Note damages that
require immediate repair, e.g. electrical connections and water supply
 Coordinate with the Barangay official and LGU’s for assistance.

25
B. Thunderstorm

Preparedness (What to do before):

Develop a Family Preparedness Plan

In case of severe thunderstorm – specific planning should include the
following:
 Learn more about your area’s severe thunderstorm risk.
 Discuss how you would know if a thunderstorm may produce a tornado
 Discuss how to be warned of an approaching thunderstorm
 Recommend trimming and removal of dead or rotting trees that could fall
and may cause damage or injury.
 Secure outdoor objects that could be blown away and cause damage
 Secure house doors and windows both from the inside and outside

Response (What to do during):

 Learn to do the lightning safety position and stay away from structures,
trees, towers, fences, telephone lines, or power lines if out in the open.
 Carefully watch out for falling debris and flash floods.
 Stay calm throughout the occurrence of thunderstorm
 Postpone all outdoor activities
 Avoid plumbing and bathroom fixtures that are good conductors of electricity
 Unplug or turn off all appliances and other electrical items such as
computers. Electric power surges and storm lightning can cause serious
damage to these appliances.
 Turn off the air conditioner and television, and stay off the phone until the
strom is over. Use a battery operated radio for gaining information
 Choose and move to a “safe place” in your house.

C. Tornado

Preparedness (What to do before):

 Develop a preparedness plan for the whole family.

 Have periodic drills with the members of the family
 Inspect pre-designated areas to ensure the best protection
 Keep an open line communication with other members of the family
 Listen to radio amd television for information
 Store flashlights and back-up batteries to receive warnings response.

Response (What to do during)

 Move to a pre-designated area or an interior room on the lowest floor and

get under a strudy piece of furniture

26
  Stay away from windows
 Lie flat in a depression if caught outside your house/school or any building

Rehabilitation (What to do after)

 Attend to survivors immediately

 Check the house for damages and losses
 Coordinate with proper authorities for assistance

D. Flood and Flashflood

Preparedness (What to do before):

 Find out the frequency of occurrence of floods in the locality especially those
that affect your area
 Know the flood warning system in you locality. If none exists, recommend
to the appropriate authority for the creation of one.
 Research from previous occurrences how fast the water floods occur in your
area and how high it rises
 If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steady raining for several
days, be alert to the possibility of a flood. Flood happens as the ground
becomes saturated.
 Watch out for rapidly rising water and help prepare the family for evacuation
 Switch off the electricity and lock the rooms after all have gone out
 Have a handy survical kit. It should contain battery-operated transistor
radio, flashlight, emergency cooking equipment, candles, matches and first
aid kit.

Response (What to do during)

 Stay calm and keep updated with the status of the situation and safety
reminders on what to do and where to go in case of evacuation.
 Listen continuously to a radio, or a portable, battery powered radio for
updated emergency information.
 Do not attempt to cross flowing streams unless assured that the water is
below knee high level
 Avoid areas prone to flash flooding and be cautious of water covered roads,
bridges, creeks and stream banks and recently flooded areas
 Do not go to swimming or boating in swollen rivers.
 Watch out for snakes in flooded areas
 Eat only well cooked food and drink only clean or preferably bolied water
and throw away all food that has come into contact with flood water.

Rehabilitation (What to do after)

 Report broken utility lines immediately to approapriate agencies/authorities

27
  Ensure that electrical appliances are checked by a competent electrician
before switching them on
 Avoid affected areas
 Continue to listen to a radio or local television stations and return home only
when authorities indicate it is safe to do so
 Stay away from any building that is still flooded.

E. Storm surge

Preparedness (What to do before):

 Know then storm surge risk zones and identify safer grounds for relocation
if necessary
 Stay off the beach when weather disturbances exists
 Ensure that everyone is familiar with the identified escape routes of the
family to higher grounds
 Help establish evacuation plans and procedures
 Participate in the regular conduct of drills and exercises.

Response (What to do during)

 Immediately move to higher grounds upon detection of signs of a probable

storm surge or upon receiving a warning that a storm surge
 Be alert of and stay away from steep, high coastal areas which are prone
to landslides
 Switch off power supply
 Stay on the inland side away form the potential flow of water
 If caught in a storm surge, take hold of large boulders or tree truncks which
can provide protection from the force of water or debris carried by the
flowing water.

Rehabilitation (What to do after)

 Do not eat fresh food that came in contact with flood waters
 Drinking water should be submitted to proper authorities for testing
 Check damage of the house to ensure that there is no danger of collapse
 Check house for electrical damage and open live wires. Electrical fixtures
should only be switched on after making sure that it is safe to do do
 Help clean all mud and debris immediately

Fire Hazard

Fire hazards include all types of live flames, causes of sparks, hot objects, and
chemicals that are potential for ignition, or that can aggravate a fire to become large and

28
uncontrolled. Fire hazards also include all types of potential threats to fire prevention
practices, fire fighting, built-in fire safety systems and situations that restrict the escape
of people from an affected building or area in the event of a fire.

Common Fire Hazards

The following fire hazards are common at home, in public places, transports and
work places:

 All types of flames used for any work

 Electric wires, higher loads, loose connecrtions and old electrical equipment
 All cooking and heat generating appliances
 All works and situations where fire is essential such as welding, cutting,
metal casting, etc.
 Improper storage of tools, equipment and items during and at the of the
day’s work.
 Smoking and personal lighters and matches
 Fireworks, pyro-techniques, ammunitions and explosives
 Improper and unauthorized storage of flammable and hazardous materials
and chemicals especially the flammable ones
 Insufficient capacity and numbers of emergency exits and stairs
 Hindrance to sight or reach fire fighting equipment, markings and alarm
system
 Insufficient numbers and types of fire extinguishers
 Absence of fire detection and alarm system
 Violation of building and fire codes.

Top causes of fire

Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire
injuries. Smoking is the leading cause of civilian home fire deaths. Heating equipment is
the second most common cause of home fire fatalities.

Below are some other common causes of fire:

Kitchen Stoves

 When left unattended

 Electric cords, curtains, tea towels and oven cloths are so close to the stove
top
 When long flowing sleeves are contacting gas flames

Faulty Wiring

 If installation was not done by qualified electrician

29
  Capacity overload
 If safety switches and correct fuses were not installed

Smoking in Bed

 Smoking in bed can cause fire – tiny embers can smolder unnoticed and
burst into flame much later.

Lighting

 Poor lights fittings can cause heat build up

 Lampshades are so close to light globes and lamp bases that can be
knoked over easily
 Recessed down lights are not properly insulated from wood paneling or
ceiling timbers

Flammable Liquids

 When flammable liquids such as petrol, kerosene, methylated spirits are not
stored properly. Storage should be away from heat.
 Unsafe handling and use of flammable liquids is a potential fire hazard

Candles

 When candles are left unattended. Do not sleep with buring candles
 When curtains and other flammable items are close to burning candles

Children

 When children are playing with fire. Keep all matches, lighters and candles
out of reach of small children.
 Children are not well oriented about fire hazards and fire safety.

Disaster Risk Reduction and management

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is define as “a systematic approach to identifying,

assessing and reducing the risks of disaster. It aims to reduce socio-economic
vulnerabilities to disaster as well as deal with the environmental and other hazards that
trigger them” (Asian Disaster Reduction Center – ADRC).

Elements of DRRM

The following is a discussion of Disaster risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) as a

continuum indicating the interrelationship of the different elements of DRR (FAO series):

1. Disaster Risk Reduction Continuum

 Ongoing development activities – Ongoing DRM aspects in different
development programs.

30
  Risk Assessment – Diagnostic process to identify the risk that a community
faces
 Prevention – Activities to avoid the adverse impact of hazards
 Mitigation – Structural / Non-structural measures undertaken to limit the
adverse impact
 Preparedeness – Activities and measures taken in advance to ensure
effective response
 Early Warning – Provision of timely and effective information to avoid or
reduce risk
2. Immediate Disaster Response
 Evacuation – temporary mass departure of people and property from
threatened locations
 Saving people nd livelihoods – Protection of people and livelihoods during
emergency
 Immediate Assistance – Provision of assistance during or immediately after
disaster
 Assessing damage and loss – information about impact on assets and loss
to production.

3. Post Disaster to Continuum

 Ongoing assistance – Continued assistance until a certain level of recovery
 Recovery – Actions taken after a disaster with a view to restoring
infrastructure and services
 Reconstruction – Actions taken after a disaster to ensure
resettlement/relocation.
 Economic and Social Recovery – Measures taken to normalize the
economy and societal living
 Ongoing development activities – continued actions of development
programs
 Risk Assessment – Diagnostic process to identy new risks that communities
may again face

31
 Emergency Planning and Management

The diagram below presents the four phases of emergency planning, namely,
mitigation, preparedeness, response, and recovery. This continuum serves as guide
in designing an emergency plan for the family and the community.

Source: www.masslocalinstitute.info

Monitoring, Evaluating and Reporting

Monitoring, evaluation and reporting are key activities for the success of an
emergency plan. To respond effectively to changing circumstances and new information,
a local government unit (LGU) must have a way to assess emergency planning progress
on objectives and outcomes and initiate corrective action where required. A system of
monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement is needed to determine the
effectiveness of emergency plan

32
 The diagram below shows the interrelation of monitoring, evaluating and reporting as
basis of improvement for an implemented community emergency plan.

Source: pinterest

 Monitoring

On an ongoing basis, LGU will systematically collect and store data for
indicators about progress toward the achievement of emergency plan outcomes.
Also, a LGU will be responsible for collecting data for these indicators over the
span of the emergency plan and for monitoring the data trends showing changes
occurring in the region.

 Evaluating
Data on monitoring will undergo rigorous evaluation, analysis and
interpretation of results within the context of gevernments policies and strategies
designed to achieve the objectives and to ensure that management actions are
appropriate spatially and temporarily.

 Reporting
A LGU will use various mechanism to formally communicate an emergency
plan progress to the public, including the release of reports on a regular basis that
speak directly to then plan, as well as ministry communications that address more
specific aspects of the plan.

33
DEMONSTRATION (APPLICATION):

Lesson 4: Topic 1 - Activity 1

Direction: Read an account of Super Typhoon Yolanda that struck Samar

and Leyte in 2013. Analyze its impact from the different perspectives
enumerated below
A. Physical Perspective

B. Psycholigical Perspective

C. Socio-Cultural Perspective

D. Economic Perpective

E. Political Perspective

F. Environmental Perspective

34
 Lesson 4: Topic 1 - Activity 2

Written Report
Objective: Analyze the human and economic impacts of recent notable disasters and the
effects impacts to the economic and social development of a country.

The economic and human costs of disasters can arrest the economic and social
development of a country. To know the magnitude of the effects of disasters, let us
explore the impacts of recent notable disasters.

1. Choose one subject disaster from the following:

 1990 Luzon Earthquake (Phillipines)
 1991 Pinatubo Eruption(Philippines)
 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami (Indonesia)
 2011 Japan Earthquake ?and Tsunami (Japan)
 2013 Yolanda (Haiyan) Typhoon and Storm Surge (Philippines)
2. Gather information from news clippings and internet resources about the
cause and impact of the disaster of your choice.
3. Prepare a written report, answer the following questions as guide in making
the reports.
 What caused the disaster?
 When and where exactly did the natural event originate?
 How extensive was the area affected?
 Was the cause of the disaster forecasted or predicted? Were there
warning issued? How did the people react to the warning?
 How many lives were lost? How many were injured and missing? Can the
loss of lives be quantifed interms of peso or dollars?
 What could have prevented the loss of many lives?
 How much did the country spend for rescue, relief, and rehabilitation
works?
 What particular loss or damage cannot be recovered or repaired?
 How justified are pre-disaster measures and expenditures?

35
 Lesson 4: Topic 1 - Activity 3

Reaction Paper
Director: Read this article (The Cataclysmic 1991 Eruption of Mt. Pinatubo,
Philippines)- (https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/1997/fs113-97/ ) and prepare a reaction paper
emphasizing the different hazards caused by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in June 1991.

Source: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet, 113-97

https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/1997/fs113-97/

36
 LESSON 4 – Topic 2: Crime Prevention

INTRODUCTION:
Crime Prevention “The ultimate goal of crime prevention is to reduce the risk of being a
victim.” (SIU, par. 1) “Successful crime prevention efforts will promote a safer community
by enhancing the perception of safety and the attitudes and behaviors that help people feel
safe.” (SIU, par. 3) Reducing crime must be a community effort. It requires the work of not
only law enforcement but also the community itself. Crime prevention programs can be
instituted, but until everyone decides to work together on the effort, they can be futile.

It is quite obvious that the rate of crimes are increasing day by day in all societies in the
world, but I personally do believe that there are a lot which can be done by both the
governments and the individuals to reduce the crimes in communities.

A lot of important measures, on the one hand, can be taken by the governments in order
to reduce or even eradicate different types of crimes.
On the other hand, individuals in societies can be of great help to cut down on the number
of crimes being committed. To my mind, the overwhelming majority of people tend to
participate in activities assisting the government to keep the society a safe place for their
own families and the others and for all age groups .Take as an example, most people by
reporting the problems to police can play an indispensable role in crime-prevention
activities. In addition, when people themselves care about decreasing heinous crimes in
cities, it can be sort of a preventive action to harness well the situation in society by
government as well.…………………………………………………………………………….

FOCUS:
At the end of the lesson, the students will be able to:

1. Classify crimes and determine preventive ways.

2. Vigilant to report crime incidents to proper authorities.

37
PRE-ASSESSMENT: LESSON 4 – Topic 2
Direction: Read the questions carefully and choose the correct option.

1. Police are more likely to spot suspicious and/or criminal activity in progress than
possibly local residents.
A. True
B. False
2. What are some possible reasons crime may go unreported?
A. People are hesitant to call out of fear they will be identified by the potential
criminal
B. People take for granted that someone else has already contacted the police
C. They worry being embarrassed if their suspicious prove to be unfounded
D. All of the above

3. People are not suspicious, the behavior or acticvity is suspicious.

A. True
B. False
4. A stranger entering your neighbor’s house when it’s unoccupied.
A scream anywhere might be serious.
Anyone peering into parked cars.
Anyone removing accessories, license plates or gasoline from a car.
Persons entering/leaving a business place after hours.
Sound of broken glass or other unusual noises.

Can all be considered what?

A. Innocent activity
B. Normal activity
C. Coincidental
D. Suspicious activity
5. Not every stranger who comes into your neighborhood is a criminal. There are
many legitimate door-to-door salesmen, repairmen and servicemen moving
around your neighborhood.
A. True
B. False
6. Out of the following choices, what would be considered "suspicious activity"?
A. A person carrying something of value to their car?
B. A person running, while carrying something of value to a car?
C. A person carrying something of value at 3 a.m. in the morning to a car?
D. Both B and C
7. Number to call when one needs help in a police, fire or medical emergency
situation.
A. 911
B. 119
C. 117
D. 711

38
 8. The reduction of crime in the community is the sole responsibility of the Police
Department?
A. True
B. False

9. Illegitimate call which tells jokes, asks for a date, or hangs up as soon as an
operator answers.
A. Joke
B. Prank Calls
C. Emergency Calls
D. Non of the Above

10. Anti-Fencing Law is a special law which imposes penalties on people who sell,
dispose, buy or acquire anything of value which are stolen.
A. True
B. False

EXPLORING ACTIVITY:
Direction: Give example or a scenario of a crime and ways to prevent the said crime.

FIRMING – UP:
Many people are too scared to leave their home because of a fear of crime.

Some people think that more should be done to prevent crime, whereas others feel that
nothing can be done.

What are your views? In the succeeding discussion some preventive ways to reduced
crimes will be discussed.

DEEPENING DETAILS:

39
What is Crime?

As cited Gregorio (1988), a crime is the commission or omission by a person

having capacity, of any act, which is either prohibited or compelled by law and the
commission or omission of which is punishable by a procedding brought in the name of
the government whose law has been violated.

(Wharton’s Criminal Law, 1957, Vol. 1,p.11)

What is Crime Prevention?

It is an act to be done in order that a crime could not happen. Crime prevention is
everybody’s concern. We have to join hands in order to lessen crime in our community if
not totally eradicate it.

How can we minimize Crime?

It is through crime prevention where we can lessen crimes in our society. Don’t be
a victim! Take not of the following preventive measures and share them with the
community you are residing.

Community Involvement:

1. A conscious collective effort to maintain peace and order in the neighborhood is

far more effective than self or family-oriented approach to crime prevention.
2. Good leadership and the active participation of community members are vital.
3. Regular crime prevention meetings should be held to discuss the most common
modus operandi of criminals and thieves and the countermeasures against them.
4. Resident volunteers, in groups of two or three, can walk the streets in designated
areas at specific hours.
5. When a crime is in progress, volunteers should cal “117”.
6. A witness to an ongoing crime can alert neighbors by making noise or giving pre-
arranged signals. He should call “117”.
7. If the Ronda group is small, only the leader of the volunteers should know the time
and area of neighborhood walk.

How to Keep Your Family Safe

1. Make sure you and your family know the general whereabouts of all members for
the day. If possible, have a schedule board in the kitchen where family members
can post their schedules or destinations.
2. Insruct all family members and household help not to entertain strangers at the
gate or on the phone. Children should be especially trained not to converse with
strangers on the phone. Transactions should be done outside the gate. This will
prevent closer visual observation of your premises or household lay out.

40
 3. Teach your family and household help to verify the identity of the phone callers
before idenfiying themselves.
4. Never give out information on the whereabouts of family members to just anyone
on the phone. Friends or relatives should be politely asked to call again so they
can personally talk to the person they are looking for. Should the unknown caller
insist on asking to speak to each family member, ask for his name, and politely say
the message will be relayed and that he should call back. Call the police for
assistance if you repeatedly receive anonymous phone calls.
5. Have a standing order that a designated family member be contacted in an
emergency or if there are dubious characters at your door or on your phone. List
the important phone numbers in the front or back of your directory for easy access.
6. Be aware of phone swindlers who call in and report that one family member has
been in an accident and is asking for the family member or household help to bring
cash or other valuables to a certain place. Verify with another family member
before acting on this.
7. Househelp applicants should be asked for clearance and ID pictures. It would be
better if they are recommended by a relative or friend.

How to keep Children Safe

1. Advice children to refrain from playing/loitering on the roads outside your residence
where theya re highly vulnerable to abduction. Also, advice them never to leave
home without telling you of their destination and expected arrival time.
2. Carefully “back-check” references of anyone you intend to employ-baby-sitter,
domestic helper, gardener, driver or even security guard. It is very possible that
the kidnappers would utilizing such persons for infiltrate your residences so as to
acquire vital information on household valuables, layouts and patterns.
3. Hiring a security guard for the street will greatly improve the security situation of
your residence.
4. Teach your children not to talk to strangers, especially in school. Should they be
approached, tell them to run to the principal’s office and report the incident.
5. Ask your childre’s school to help provide security by not giving out any
informationon your children to anybody and avoiding publicity in which students
are named or their pictures shown.
6. Insist that strict guidelines be followed as to the persons authorized to pick up your
children. They should not be allowed to leave with any other person without your
prior authorization. To ensure maximum safety, children should be allowed to
speak on the phone to the one authorizing the release. This practice provides
protection against kidnappers who call and claim to be child’s parent.
7. Instruct children on how to call “117” in case strangers or suspicious characters
hang on around the house.
8. At night, kepp the door to the children’s room open so that any unsual noise may
be easily heard.
9. Keep the house well-lighted if it is necessary to leave the children home.

41
How to Secure Your Belongings

1. Keep a record of the important information of all household facilities and

equipment, such as TV, Radio, Audio System. Videocassette recorder/player,
refrigerator, and washing machine. Have an inventory of your jewelry and other
precious items and documents like birth, baptismal and marriage certificates.
2. Store cash, and other valuables in the bank. Hiding them inside locked drawers
does not guarantee that they will be safe from the knowing eyes and practiced
moves of robbers.
3. Bring in all outdoor equipment (bicycles, garden hose, mower, etc.) at night.
Leaving these valuables out in the garden or the streets is an open invitation to
robbers and thieves.
4. Protect your household facilities and valuables from prying eyes by using curtains
or drapes.
5. Check all electrical appliances to make sure they are turned off before leaving your
home, ensuring that a fire will not break out while you are away.
6. Provide family members with their own keys to the household. This is safer than
leaving the key in a “secret” place, one that can be discovered by any person who
takes the time to watch your movements when you leave your home and come
back at night.
7. If you and your family are going on vacation, ask a neighbor to watch your home,
or ask a relative to stay in your home for the duration of your vacation. An empty
house is a prime target for criminal elements.

Do Not Fall to Cellphone Snatching

The increasing number of cellphones users in Metro Manila abnd other areas in
the country has given rise to a seemingly lucrative but illegal business by
unscrupulous individuals and gangs. Cellphone theft is on the rise and cellphone
snatchers are getting bolder everyday. Easy prey are teenagers, students, employees
and just about any cellphone owner who carelessly use or carry around their cellphone
units in public places without due regard to their security or safety. The situation
continues to worsen as snatchers resort to violence when their victims resist or fight
back. There have been reports of injuries and death resulting from such incidents –
and the statistics are rising.

The Philippine National Police recognizes the gravity of this problem and the
dangers it continues to pose on the general public. While the police is doing its best
to contain this problem, the active involment of the general public in putting a stop to
this menace is just as vital. Vigilance, more than anything else, spells the big
difference. Hence, the cellphone owners are encourage to stay alert at all times and
to keep in mind the following tips:

42
Dos….

1. Buy cellphones only from authorized dealers.

2. Record your cellphone serial numbers immediately after purchase. Serial numbers
are available in the retail packs of brand new units.
3. As much as possible, bring your cellphone with you only if you urgently need it
during the day. Otherwise, it is best that you leave it at home.
4. Always place your cellphone in your pocket or your bag where it is not visible.
5. Set your cellphone in “silent” mode when you are in public places and inside public
vehicles.
6. If there is an urgent need for you to use your cellphone while outside, go to a place
where you are more secure - inside stores, near security guards, near police
stations, inside offices, or even in comfort cubicles.
7. Always walk in well-lighted places. When walking alone, be on guard for persons
following you – walk towards areas where there are people in case you might need
help.
8. Keep your bag containing your cellphone close to your body.
9. When in public vehicles, be alert for snatcehrs; be suspicious of passengers who
come in threes or fours and who position themselves beside/behind the driver,
near the “estribo”, and one among the passengers.
10. If you fall victim to snatchers, reports to the police and to your cellphone providers
immediately.
11. Always cooperate with the police and barangay authorities.
12. If you wish to own a second hand cellphone, ask for the complete kit and receipt.

DONTs….

1. When in public places, refrain from displaying your cellphone unnecessarily. Avoid
using it in public. Do not clip it on your waist or carry it while walking or while inside
public vehicles. This will only give snatchers the opportunity to grab it from you.
2. Never lend your cellphones to strangers who may approach you to make
emergency calls.
3. Do not resist hold-up men or snatchers. Do not panic. Follow their instrcutiobns
but remain calm enough to remember their description and the direntions they took
in escaping.
4. When inside establishment, offices or restaurabnts, do not leave your cellphone
lying around on tables, on top of cabinets, or even on chairs beside you. You’ll
never know when strangers, or thieves posing as visitors, may come and take your
cellphone when you are least aware.
5. When paying for puchases in stores or supermarkets, do not leave your cellphone
on the counter. Place it in your bag or pocket.

43
REMEMBER, BUYING OR SELLING STOLEN PROPERTY IS PUNISHABLE
UNDER THE “ANTI-FENCING LAW” OR PD 1612

The ANTI-FENCING LAW is a special law, which imposes penalties on

people who sell, dispose, buy or acquire anything of value which are stolen.

People caught possessing stolen property or articles will be punished with

imprisonment of 6-12 years to a maximum of 20 years depending on the value of
the stolen property or article.

What to do if you are Under Threat

1. If there are suspicious sounds or shadows in your home, try to contact the
police or call 117 quietly, so as not to let the intruders know that you are aware
of their presence. Most robbers are after the property inside your home, and
are more prone to working swiftly and quietly to avoid any physical or violent
encounters.
2. If your are awakened by the sound of intruders, you have seral options. One,
lie quietly to avoid attracting attention, hoping that they will leave you
undisturbed. Two, you may choose to open lights and make noise by moving
around, thereby warning them that you are awake, and scaring them into
leaving your home. Even if you are alone in the house, you may speak loudly
to an imaginary companion.
3. If you signs of a break-in or suspicious persons inside your home, do not
attempt to go is as robbers may still be inside. G to your nearest neighbor and
call the local police or call 117 for immediate assistance.
4. Remain calm and do not panic. Although robbers would prefer to avoid a
confrontation, they are easily agilated and more prone to uncalled for abuse or
violence.
5. Try to talk it out with robbers, if you are up to it. This will delay them, and allow
for alternative action on your part, if the situations crops up.
6. Note all peculariarities and mannerism of the robbers if you come face-to-face
with them. Tattoo marks, physical defects, moles and speech mannerism with
help in giving the police a more solid description of the robbers.
7. Call the police immediately after the robbers leave your home. You may also
tect 117 for this purposes.

How to Avoid Rape

Here are few precautions, which will greatly reduce your chances of
becoming a victim.

1. Be alert when you are alone.

2. Avoid walking alone. Walk on the streets where there are other people.
3. Stay out of alleys, vacant lots, and buildings.

44
 4. Walk near the curb and don’t pass too close to shrubbery, dar doorways, and
other places of concealment. Avoid shortcuts.
5. Be discreet. Don’t broadcast details of your personal plans to casual
acquaintances or strangers.
6. If you must work late in an office building, alert a friend or relatives or the
security gurad so he will know where you are and when to expect you. Ask your
employer to provide an escort, arrange to leave in a group. Don’t walk to your
vehicle alone if you can avoid it.
7. Carry a shrill whistle in your hand ready to use.
8. If someone is following you, cross the street ahead for bright lights and people,
then be ready to use your whistle.
9. Do not hitchhike or accepts rides from strangers. If a vehicle approaches and
you are threatened, turn and run in the opposite direction. The driver will have
to turn around to pursue you. Make your screams loud and long.

Remember, the opportunity for rape is increased when you accept an offer of a
ride home or late snack from someone whom you’ve just met at a lounge, club or
party. Being aware will lessen your chances of being assaulted.

10. When arriving home by taxi or private car, request the driver to waith until you
are inside.

The object is to get away with the least injury to you.

Violence is seldom far from the rapist’s mixed-up mind. Rape is much more a crime
of violence than of sex. The rapist deals with threats in just two ways Fight or Flight.

If your assailant has a weapon, don’t resist. You will have to gain his confidence.
If you are to escape the assault, gaining the man’s confidence is an essential step in
attaining your freedom unharmed.

Your best chance to react is when your assailant’s guard is down. To stall for time,
you mayvneed to give the impression that you are going along with him. Your need to go
along will end when you devise a chance to react safely.

What will you do if you are being attacked?

1. Be prepared to defend yourself if physically attacked.

2. Think! Don’t panic!
3. Look for a way to escape
4. You best defense is noise – loud screaming. If there is no response, try screaming
“Fire!” People may pay more attention to “Fire!” because it could affect them.

45
Protection from Bomb Threats

A BOMB is a device capable of producing damage to property and injury or death to

people when detonated or ignited. Bombs are classified as explosive, which cause
damage by fragmentation, heat and blast wave; and incendiary, whichgenerate fire-
producing heat without a substantial explosion when ignited.

Responding to Bomb Threats

Each threat received through any means of communication should be treated as

real and must be forwarded immediately to the proper authorities.

a. Telephone Bomb Threats – The receiving party must remain calm and
courteous. Try to obtain as much information as possible from the caller. Take
note of the following procedures.

1. Get the identity of the caller

2. Take note of the following characteristics: Male or Female voice, accent of
voice, speech impediments or peculiar voice characteristics, any
background noise, does the voice sound familiar.
3. The exact words if the person placing the call.
4. Show no emotion on the phone.
5. Know the exact location of the bomb.
6. Ask for a description of the bomb/composition of the explosive.
7. Repeat the message to the caller whenever possible and ask for
confirmation.
8. The receiving party should remain calm and courteous.
9. He should listen carefully and write down accurately the information the
caller provides.
10. If possible, refer the caller to a supervisor or a person in authority to extract
more information.
11. Take note of the exact time the suspect hung up.
12. The person receiving the bomb threat should attempt to ask the caller
certain questions: When is the bomb ging to explode? Where is the bomb
right now? What type of bomb is it? What does the bomb look like? What
will cause it to explode? Why did you place the bomb?
13. Remember that the caller may not answer your questions, but any additional
information that he may relate will be helpful.
14. It may be advisable to inform the caller that the building is occupied and the
detonation of the bomb could result ind death or serious injury to many
innocent people.
15. Once the telephone threat es received, notify your local police at once.

46
 b. Hand Written or Typed Notes
Documents and other materials which are received should be carefully handled
to preserve marks,fingerprints, etc. for examination by competent authorities.
These items should be forwarded immediately to the proper authorities for
analysis and evaluation. Written messges should never be ignored.

Person-to-Person or Direct Threat

1. Notify your security supervisior immediately

2. Keep the person making the threat or indicating knowledge of a threat under
surveillance until relieved by yur supervisor
3. Take note of the age, height, sex, color of the eyes/hair/skin, clothing, and unsual
charateristics such as lameness, twitching or any peculiarities of the person.

How to Save Lives

“Love your neighbor as you love yourself” is one of the commandments of God.
We can do this by saving lives of other people by calling or texting 117 during
EMERGENCIES such as:

1. Crimes
2. Accidents
3. Disasters
4. Road Traffic Hazards, and Other Safety Concerns

What is “117”?

“117” is the number to call when one needs help in a police, fire or medical
emergency situation. Having expanded its service to text messaging, it can also received
complaints and tips to assist in the ani-illegal drug and terrosim campaign. In fact, it has
linked up with PDEA, the Task Force on the Security of Critical Infrastructure for the
purpose, and the National Anti-Kidnappings Task Force. Set up as a round-the-clock
emergency call/message center. It connects the caller/texter to the most appropriate
responding unit and/or relays complaints, tips and messages to the proper authorities.

Is “117” the universal emergency number for the Philippines?

Yes, executive Order 226, signed by President Arroyo on July 14, 2003,
designated “117” as the official emergency access code of the Phililppines.

Prior to this, then President Estrada signed Administrative Order 124 for the
creation of aJoint Commission on Street Watch and Administrative Order 36 on the
Instittutionalization of the Patrol program.

47
When should you use “117”?

“117” should be used only for emergency. An emergency situation is when one
needs the immediate assistance of police, fire and jail operatives and/or when in need of
medical assistance. Text “117”, on the other hand, may be used for non-emergency
situations like tips on illegal gambling, abusive officers, terrorism tips, drug trafficking and
other public safety and security concerns which may require further verification and
surveillance activities.

When no to call “117”?

Do not call “117” for directory assistance, personal inquiries, information or as a

prank. If you have any information on crimes committed or illegal activities, you text “117”
of call your local police directly. If you call “117” by mistake, say so immediately to avoid
unnecessary dispatch of responders or minimize queuing of calls.

What “117” call are considered prank or illegitimate?

A prank call is one that tells jokes, asks for a date, or hangs up as soon as on
operator answers. To eradicate prank calls, the DILG has called on provincial, city and
municipal councils to pass respective ordinances to eradicate prank calls. Prank calls
may clog lines and prevent the connection of real emergency calls, which may save lives.
To educate the public about the responsible use of the hotline, information and advocacy
campaigns are being done by the Foundation for Crime Prevention (FCP) and the
Department on Interior and Local Government (DILG) and their partner agencies.

48
DEMONSTRATION (APPLICATION):

Lesson 4: Topic 2 - Activity 1

Direction: Supposed you are the owner of a school, create a Crime Prevention Program
for the whole school entitled:

Crime Prevention: Working Together To

Create Safer Schools

49
50