OFFICE OF DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND MANAGEMENT

2011 National Primary School QuizStudy Guide

Table of ContentsFlooding . . . . . . . . . . 2Natural Causes of FloodingMan Made Causes of FloodingConsequences of FloodingBefore FloodingDuring a FloodAfter a FloodPast Flooding Events

Hurricanes . . . . . . . . . . 6Hurricane WarningsMain Features of a HurricaneBefore the Hurricane Season BeginsDuring a HurricaneAfter a Hurricane

Landslides . . . . . . . . . . 10Causes of LandslidesBefore a LandslideDuring a LandslideAfter a Landslide

Earthquakes . . . . . . . . . . 12Impacts of EarthquakesBefore an EarthquakeDuring an EarthquakeAfter an Earthquake

Tsunamis . . . . . . . . . . 15 Causes of TsunamisTsunami Warning SignsHow to protect yourself from a Tsunami

Fires . . . . . . . . . . . 17Causes of FiresBefore a FireDuring a Fire

Pandemics . . . . . . . . . . 19Symptoms of H1N1Warnings of H1N1Preventative Measures against H1N1DenguePreventative Measures against Dengue

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . 21

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Trinidad and Tobago experiences two (2) seasons: The dry season, which lasts from January to May and the wet season which starts in June and ends in December. Typically more rain is experienced in the wet season, but heavy rain can fall at any time. Therefore severe flooding events can occur throughout the year. Flooding is the most commonly occurring natural hazard in Trinidad and Tobago. Flooding occurs when an area of land, usually low lying, is covered with water where there was none before.

Usually when rain falls, some of the water enters or infiltrates the soil. The remaining water that is not absorbed by the soil would therefore flow over the surface of the soil and is termed as surface runoff. Initially, surface runoff may result in flash flooding which quickly disappears when it enters into drains. However, if there is too much surface runoff as is the case when it rains for a long time or if drains are few or blocked, the water can gather on land and result in severe flooding.

Natural causes of flooding include:

1) Heavy Rain When rain falls for a long period of time, the soil can become saturated. Soil can be described as saturated when all the airspaces found between the soil particles are filled with water. When water is unable to pass into the soil, it is forced to flow over the soil, thus increasing the surface runoff. Drains and other waterways may be unable to hold or transport the increase in surface runoff away from low lying areas therefore resulting in flooding.

When rain falls heavily, the rain drops hit the ground with more force. This can cause the rain drops to bounce off the soil instead of passing into the soil. The water from the rain is forced to flow over the surface instead, increasing the

surface runoff which leads to flooding.

Figure 1.1 shows the extent of flooding that can happen when heavy rain falls for a long period of time. In September 2007, there was an unusual amount of heavy rain that poured over Port of Spain: over four feet (4ft) of water collected in the streets of Port of Spain.

2) ReliefRelief refers to the difference in height between the highest point and the lowest point on land. When rain falls, the surface runoff can move very quickly from mountainous or hilly areas to low lying areas, which causes these low lying areas to flood. The land on either side of a river also known as a floodplain, such as the land on either side of the Caroni River becomes flooded when the Caroni River overflows its banks (sides of the river). During heavy rainfall, water enters into the river, but sometimes that river is not big enough to contain all the extra water, forcing the excess water to spill over the sides of the river (riverbank) and flow onto nearby flat land (Figure 1.2).

Flooding can occur naturally, but certain activities of man can worsen flooding events. Some of man’s actions can cause flooding events are:

1) DeforestationDeforestation is the removal or cutting down of trees and other vegetation from land (Figure 1.3). Trees increase the amount of water that enters into the soil, reducing the amount of surface runoff and, as a result, the amount of flooding that takes place. The roots of trees also help to keep soil firmly in place. Once the land is barren or lacks trees and other vegetation, rain water is able to wash away soil particles and rocks from mountainous areas to low lying areas. The excess soil transported to lower areas can eventually end up in rivers; increasing the height of the riverbed (area at the bottom of the river). The rivers are then able to hold less water and this increases the chance of flooding in areas near these rivers.

1.0 FLOODING

Figure 1.1: Showing a major flooding event in Port of Spain in 2007 due to unusually heavy rain.

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2) Poor farming practicesPoor farming practices such as slash and burn agriculture and overgrazing can result in increased soil erosion. Soil erosion is the washing away of soil by rain water or strong winds. When there is soil erosion, the soil particles that are washed away can end up in rivers and streams. When the level of soil builds up on the riverbed, it causes the riverbed to increase in height. This would mean that the river would be able to hold less water. Therefore when there is heavy rainfall, there would be less room in the river to hold the extra water and flooding occurs more easily and quickly.

3) Pollution/LitteringGarbage that is not properly disposed could enter into drainage systems and clog the drains. This prevents the free flow of the water that enters into these drains, water backs up during rainfall and the surrounding area then becomes flooded. A build up of garbage can also prevent the natural flow of water in rivers and streams (Figure 1.4). When there is heavy rainfall, there is no place for the water to flow and there would come a point when the river would be unable to carry all the excess water. The water would then spill over the riverbanks and onto nearby land causing flooding.

Consequences of Flooding:Flooding can result in damage to property, the loss of agricultural crops, the loss of livestock and

even in the death of humans. The following are some negative impacts of flooding on people:

1) Flood water can move very fast. In some cases, flood waters can have an undercurrent that is able to sweep humans and animals away and can result in drowning.

2) People can drown in flood waters. It is never safe to walk in flood waters even if the water appears to be still or stagnant because sometimes the water can be dangerously deep.

3) People can suffer from serious health issues after severe flooding events, usually after hurricanes or tropical storms. Diseases such as malaria and dengue can become common.

Before Flooding:1) Before building, find out if the area has a high risk of flooding - then find out how many feet above ground level you need to build your house to help protect it from flooding.

2) Ensure that drains are kept clean and free of garbage. This would ensure that excess rain water can flow freely and safely out of low lying areas.

3) Do not litter. Paper, bottles, cans and styrofoam containers can clog drains. Do not dispose of large appliances and unwanted

Figure 1.2: Showing Trantrill Road, located on the Caroni floodplain, being flooded when Caroni overflowed its banks.

Figure 1.3: Showing trees being cleared from the land in south Trinidad.

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materials in rivers.

4) Plant trees and other vegetation on slopes near your home.

5) Formulate an evacuation plan, in the event that you and your family have to leave your home.

6) Keep all important documents such as birth papers, certificates and passports together and in a water proof bag.

7) If there are signs that flooding is about to occur near your home, move important items to a higher floor if possible.

8) Educate children about the dangers of playing and walking in flood waters.

During a Flood: 1) Stay indoors; do not go out into the flood waters.

2) Stay calm; listen to the radio or television for information to know when it is safe to leave.

3) Move to upper levels of buildings or houses if the lower levels are threatened by flood waters.

4) Do not drive in flood waters at all. Two feet (2ft) of fast moving water can sweep away most vehicles. Vehicles can also shut down in flood waters. If floodwaters rise above your car, abandon your car immediately.

After a Flooding Event:1) Avoid going out into flood waters. Dangerous items such as broken glass could be hidden in flood waters. Stay indoors and only leave the

building if the relevant authority gives official word that it is safe to do so.

2) Do not drive into flooded areas even if the water is not moving (stagnant).

3) Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood waters.

4) Do not touch live electrical cables or electrical equipment in wet areas, as there may be danger of electrocution.

5) Use extreme caution when entering flooded buildings, there may be hidden damages to the building making it unsafe.

6) Report damaged utility lines to the relevant utility company: T&TEC, TSTT or WASA. Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least fifteen (15) minutes or until it reaches boiling point.

7) Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least five (5) minutes.

8) Bury all dead animals as soon as possible.

9) Check your homes for damages and repair them immediately.

10) Clear garbage from drains and channels near your home.

The effects of flooding can be devastating, but if we each do all that we can to reduce the causes of flooding, then flooding events and even their negative impacts can be reduced.

Figure 1.4: Showing how garbage could build up in river causing the natural flow of water to be obstructed, allowing flooding to take place more easily. (This photo was not taken in Trinidad or Tobago)

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One of the most feared natural disasters that commonly affect the Caribbean Islands is the hurricane. A hurricane can be defined as a violent storm that has surface winds with speeds of over 118 kilometers per hour (km/hr).

These powerful forces of nature are known to

cause widespread damage when they make landfall; that is, when they pass directly over land. Some of the danger caused includes damage to infrastructure such as buildings, roads and bridges; loss of agricultural crops and livestock (farm animals); and in some cases human lives. This is why it is very important that everyone is educated on how to prepare themselves and their homes to withstand a hurricane.

2.0 HURRICANES

Table 2.1: Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

Category Wind Speed(km/hr) Damage1 119-153 Older mobile homes could be destroyed. Poorly constructed homes could have their roofs blown off. Unprotected windows may break if struck by flying debris. The branches of large trees would snap and shallow rooted trees can be toppled.

2 154-177 Extremely dangerous winds can cause extensive damage.Substantial risk of injury or death due to flying debris.Older mobile homes have a high chance of being destroyed.Well constructed homes can sustain major roof damage.Near total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.Potable or drinkable water could become contaminated and therefore become scarce.

3 178-209 Devastating damage will occur.High risk of injury and even death to people and livestock.Nearly all older mobile homes would be destroyed.Poorly constructed homes can sustain complete collapse of walls as well as the loss of roof structure.Well built homes could also sustain damage with a loss of most of the roof structure.Numerous windows will be blown out of high rise buildings resulting in falling glass, which could pose a threat from days to weeks after the storm passes.Electricity and water would be unavailable for several days to weeks after the hurricane passes.

4 210-249 Catastrophic damage will occur.High risk of injury or death due to flying debris.Nearly all older mobile homes would be destroyed.A high percentage of newer mobile homes would also be destroyed.Poorly constructed homes can also sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure.Well built homes could also sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and some exterior walls.There would be a high percentage of structural damage to top floors of tall buildings.

5 Over 250 People and livestock are at a very high risk of injury or death from flying and falling debris, even if indoors!

There would be almost complete destruction of mobile homes regardless of age or construction.All unprotected windows and even many protected windows would be affected by flying debris.Nearly all windows of high rise buildings would be blown off.Nearly all trees will be snapped or uprooted and power lines downed.Longterm water shortages will increase human suffering.

Source: NOAA

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There is a six (6) month period, during which hurricanes are most likely to develop. This period is known as the Hurricane Season. In the Caribbean, the Hurricane Season is said to begin on the 1st June and end on the 30th November. It is important to note however, that hurricanes can occur beyond this period, though it is a very rare occurrence. According to meteorologists, or scientists who study the weather, most hurricane activity takes place during the months of August, September and October. The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service, also known as the Met Office, is responsible for observing weather in our twin island.

Hurricanes can have varying strengths, depending on the speed of the winds. The greater the wind speed, the stronger the hurricane. The weakest hurricane would be called a category one (1) hurricane, while the most intense hurricane would be termed a category five (5) hurricane.

Meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale to decide the strength of the hurricane. Table 2.1 shows what the Saffir-Simpson Scale looks like. Meteorologists compare the wind speed of the hurricane with the wind speeds found in the Saffir-Simpson Scale to determine the hurricane category. An example of this would be: if a hurricane has a wind speed of 160 km/hr, it would be considered a category two (2) hurricane. Hurricanes can result in destruction regardless of their strengths, but hurricanes which are category three (3) and higher are considered to be major hurricanes. These have the potential to cause the greatest damage.

When a hurricane forms, the exact position of a hurricane can be detected due to pictures obtained from satellites. A satellite is a man-made object that is able to take pictures of the Earth from space. Meteorologists use these satellite pictures as well as other instruments to help track the movement of the hurricane.

If meteorologists think that a hurricane might pass over or close to land, they would issue bulletins to allow the public enough time to prepare themselves for the oncoming hurricane. There are two (2) different types of bulletins, depending on how far away the hurricane is from the island:

1) Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are expected within forty eight (48) hours. 2) Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected within thirty six (36) hours.

Hurricanes are perhaps the most devastating natural disaster that affects all of the Caribbean and this is due to three main features. These features are:

1) Extremely powerful winds2) Torrential/Heavy rain3) Destructive storm surge

The extremely powerful winds easily uproot trees, shrubs and other types of vegetation. These winds also possess the ability to rip roofs off of homes and other buildings. Signs and outdoor furniture that isn’t firmly attached can be made airborne, turning them into deadly missiles. Power lines and other similar structures could be pushed to the ground resulting in massive power outages that could last for days after the hurricane has passed.

Torrential or heavy rains are to blame for the severe inland flooding that occurs during hurricanes. Flooding is a natural disaster in itself. Houses and possessions are destroyed by the sheer force of these fast moving waters and water supplies could become contaminated. The torrential rain in combination with strong winds batter homes and other buildings, sometimes resulting in their complete destruction.

Storm surges are huge waves caused by storms. The powerful hurricane winds apply pressure or act on the surface of the sea, pushing water towards the shore creating these large waves. This of course leads to flooding of areas near the shore which is termed coastal flooding. These large waves that crash onto the coast can destroy piers/jetties and other structures built along the coast. The large waves and the forceful winds beat against boats anchored in harbours, tossing them around and in some cases completely destroying them.

Trinidad and Tobago has been very lucky to avoid being directly hit by a hurricane in recent times. The last hurricane to make landfall on Trinidad and Tobago was Hurricane Flora in September of 1963. Of the 7,500 houses on the island, 2,750 were destroyed and 3,500 were damaged. Fifty percent (50%) of coconut and cocoa trees were destroyed. Hurricane Flora caused eighteen (18) deaths in Tobago and two (2) in Trinidad due to drowning. Tropical Storms have made landfall on Trinidad and Tobago in more recent times though. Tropical storm Alma made landfall in 1974 and was responsible for two (2) deaths. Tropical storms Arthur and Fran made landfall in 1990 and Bret in 1993.

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Even though Trinidad and Tobago has been spared being directly affected by hurricanes in recent times, the twin island has had some close calls:

1) November 2010 - Trinidad and Tobago was placed under Tropical Storm Warning due to how close Tropical Storm Tomas was to the islands. Even though the storm did not make landfall, it caused widespread flooding in Tobago as well as landslides. Two (2) homes in Delaford, Tobago were completely destroyed!

2) August 2007 - Trinidad was put under Hurricane Watch due to Hurricane Felix passing very near to the islands. The central and southern parts of Trinidad experienced heavy rainfall and as a result widespread flooding occurred.

3) July 2005 - When hurricane Emily passed very near to the island, Trinidad and Tobago was affected by widespread flooding and landslides especially in the Northern Range. A house was even swept away in Arima. The agricultural sector was also severely affected when three hundred and fifty (350) acres of rice was lost, amounting to over one million dollars in damage.

Knowing the damage that this natural disaster is capable of causing, it is important to put the best measures in place before the hurricane season so that in the event that a hurricane does strike you and your loved ones would be best protected against any negative impacts that the hurricane might cause. The following are important safety tips that should be performed before, during and after a hurricane occurs:

Before the Hurricane Season Begins:1) Learn the location of shelters closest to you (visit the ODPM website: www.odpm.gov.tt).

2) If you live in coastal areas, learn safe routes inland.

3) Have your homes inspected for potential problems that may happen during a hurricane; if roofs are not very secure, hurricane straps or metal bolts could be used, which would help prevent roofs from being blown off by winds.

4) Prepare a family plan so that household members would know how to deal with injuries, what should be done if you must evacuate, where to meet and who to contact in cases where separation occurs. Emergency telephone numbers should also be posted in a visible location.

5) Ensure that enough non-perishable food items

such as canned foods and water supplies are available.

6) Put together an emergency kit with items like a working battery operated radio, flashlights, batteries and a manual can opener in case a power outage occurs. Also include any medications that may be needed.

7) Ensure there’s a well-stocked first aid kit.

8) Clear clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

9) Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed near homes and remove branches that could damage your home.

10) Ensure that lawn furniture and loose outdoor items such as garbage cans and potted plants are properly tied down.

11) Obtain and store materials such as plywood to board up windows and glass doors, to help keep them from shattering.

12) Place important documents such as birth papers and passports in a waterproof bag and keep them in an easily accessible location.

During a Hurricane:1) Stay indoors and away from glass doors and windows since these can shatter and cause injury.

2) Listen to your radio for official updates and do not leave your home even if bad weather conditions stop, since this doesn’t mean that the hurricane is over. Those conditions could indicate the presence of the hurricane eye. The Eye is a region of light winds and fair weather that is found at the center of a hurricane. It is usually referred to as the calmest part of the hurricane.

3) Only leave your home when it becomes officially safe to do so.

4) Review your evacuation plan. After the Hurricane:1) Stay indoors and listen to your radio to know if there are still dangerous winds in your area.

2) Seek medical attention at first aid stations, hospitals or clinics, if injured.

3) Beware of outdoor hazards such as downed power lines and damaged roads.

4) Adults should check the home for any structural damage.

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5) Drink only bottled water/boiled water.

6) Use only dry or canned foods and throw away any spoiled food.

The devastation caused by hurricanes on other Caribbean islands is horrifying. The following pictures show some of the devastation that hurricanes are responsible for in our fellow Caribbean islands.

Hurricanes are violent storms capable of major destruction as clearly seen in Figures 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3. It is always best to plan and to prepare and to follow the guidelines outlined for before, during and after a hurricane strikes so that the possibility of injury and even death occurring is greatly reduced. These precautionary measures should also be carried out in cases of Tropical Storms.

Figure 2.1: Showing how Hurricane Ike destroyed a main bridge in Cuba in 2008.

Figure 2.2: Showing the obliteration of the bridge that connects Kingston to St. Thomas by the raging waters of the Hope River after Hurricane Gustav made landfall in Jamaica in 2008.

Figure 2.3: Showing significant flooding in Haiti after a hurricane made landfall in 2008.

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Landslides are a natural disaster than occur more often than realised in Trinidad and Tobago but what exactly is a landslide? A landslide is the rapid mass movement of soil, mud and/or rocks downhill due to the pull of gravity.

Landslides can occur due to natural means; however it is the activities of man that have contributed to the increased occurrence of landslides in recent years. Some of the main natural factors that are responsible for landslides are:

1) Heavy RainfallGravity is an invisible force that pulls all objects towards Earth. When rain falls, water enters or infiltrates into the soil which makes the soil become heavier and therefore more vulnerable to the pull of gravity. When soil absorbs all the water that it is capable of holding, it is said to be saturated. Soil is therefore its heaviest and is therefore the most receptive to the effects of gravity, when saturated. When large areas of soil become saturated on steep slopes, the pull of gravity causes the top layers of the soil to slide downhill, therefore resulting in a landslide. Heavy rainfall greatly increases the possibility of soil becoming saturated within a very short space of time, which can result in landslides. If a lot of soil is moving downhill, rocks and large boulders could be pushed downhill as well, which can result in major damage to buildings and roads found below. In November, 2004, two (2) people were killed and five (5) others were injured when a landslide occurred in Delaford, Tobago after experiencing six (6) hours of heavy rains. The roadway in the area was blocked off by debris and one driver was killed when his vehicle was covered with fallen soil material.

2) EarthquakesAn Earthquake is a tremor or movement in the Earth’s crust. They are a deadly and unpredictable

type of natural disaster and are the leading reason for landslides occurring worldwide. Loose soil, rocks and boulders can easily be removed from hilly areas and allowed to move downhill when the violent shaking of the ground occurs. Landslides are more likely to take place when the earthquake is of a high magnitude.

There are some activities of man that increases the likelihood of the occurrence of landslides. These activities usually result in land degradation which is the depletion of the land’s natural trees, vegetation and soil quality. This in effect leads to the land becoming more vulnerable to soil movement and more likely to suffer landslides.

The following are the main activities that produce landslides: 1) Deforestation2) Quarrying/Rock Mining3) Bad agricultural practices such as slash and burn agriculture

Deforestation is the removal or cutting down of trees and other types of vegetation from the land. The firm roots of the trees also help to keep the soil in place, even when it absorbs water, thus reducing the effects that gravity has on the soil. It is when these trees are removed that the bare and exposed soil is left defenseless against the pulling force of gravity when saturated since trees help to keep soil firmly in place. Soil movement takes place more easily and rapidly resulting in deadly landslides.

Quarrying or rock mining refers to the cutting away or excavation of hilly or mountainous areas so that rocks and minerals can be extracted from the land. Quarrying is rampant in the Northern Range and results in the land being left bare with no trees or vegetation (Figure 3.1). Without trees to hold the soil in place, soil movement occurs easily and rapidly.

There are guide lines that should be followed before, during and after the occurrence of landslides:

3.0 LANDSLIDES

Figure 3.1: Showing excavators cutting into the land during the quarrying of a hill in Valencia, Trinidad.

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Before a Landslide:1) Find out whether the area in which you live is prone to landslides. Landslides usually occur in the same areas, so if a landslide has occurred in your area it would mean that the chances of another landslide occurring in the future are high.

2) If you live in a high risk area an evacuation plan should be prepared.

3) Plant trees and other types of vegetation that would help to stabilize or secure soil on the slopes of your property.

4) Look for changes to your surroundings that may signal the likelihood or chance of landslide activity, such as leaning fences or walls.

5) When driving along routes on hilly areas, such as the roads to Maracas, drive with your windows down and without music. This should be done so that you would hear any unusual sounds such as the knocking together of rocks or the cracking of trees, which are warning signs of the possibility of a landslide occurring.

6) Also while driving along those areas, if you see an abnormal amount of leaves from trees falling, it could be the signal that a landslide is about to occur.

During a Landslide:1) If outdoors, try to get to the nearest high ground in the direction away from the path of the landslide.

2) If you are at a river, be prepared to leave the area immediately if there are signs that a landslide has occurred higher upstream. Don’t

try to take your belongings, just leave the area as fast as possible.

3) If driving, remain alert and look out for collapsed or fallen pavements, mud and fallen rocks.

After a Landslide:1) Don’t go into or return to an area that just experienced a landslide since there may be additional landslides. Only return to the area once it is officially safe to do so.

2) Flooding may occur after a landslide since they might be caused by the same factors.

3) Provide assistance to neighbours and to any special needs individuals such as children and to the elderly.

4) Check your property for any structural damage.

5) Check for any damaged utility lines or ruptured water mains. Report any damage that may have occurred to the relevant utility company such as T&TEC and WASA.

6) Replant damaged ground immediately since soil erosion could be further caused by loss of ground cover.

Landslides can sometimes be unpredictable and are a reality in Trinidad and Tobago. Thankfully, they usually occur in the same areas and this is why people should learn if they live in a high risk area and take the necessary precautions since this can help to save not only your life, but also the lives of your family members and neighbours.

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Figure 3.2: Showing a backhoe clearing away the rest of the debris that blocked the North Coast Road after a landslide in 2008.

An earthquake is a natural hazard which occurs when the ground shakes or rocks violently. An earthquake can take place at any time, day or night, without any signs at all and is capable of inflicting the same type of damage as a major hurricane. This makes it the most unpredictable and feared of all natural disasters.

The earth is made up of four major layers: the inner core, outer core, mantle and crust. The crust is the outermost and thinnest layer of the earth made out of rock. This layer of rock is not one smooth continuous layer, in fact the rock is broken into several large pieces that can fit together like a jigsaw puzzle (Figure 4.1). These pieces are known as tectonic plates. These tectonic plates are able to move around and interact with one another; sliding and bumping into each other. When two or more of these plates meet, they can lock or stick together, similar to when your fingers interlock with each other. The plates continue to move about trying to get themselves unstuck from one another and this causes energy to build up below the plates. When the plates are able to break free from each other, the built up energy is released moving

through the Earth resulting in the shaking of the ground or what we call an earthquake.

The region where two or more plates meet is known as a plate boundary.

Scientists, who study earthquakes, or seismologists, are unable to predict or tell the exact time and location that an earthquake would strike. They are able to measure the magnitude of an earthquake or the amount of energy that is released from the earth when an earthquake takes place. They use the Richter scale for that purpose.

When an earthquake first takes place, it is known as the main event. However, there may be a series of smaller earthquakes that could occur after the main one. These smaller earthquakes are known as the aftershock and are capable of causing further damage. The aftershock is just as unpredictable as the main one.

An earthquake typically lasts under one (1) minute or sixty (60) seconds, but the shaking could be so violent at times to cause irreparable damage.

There are many negative impacts that can

4.0 Earthquakes

Figure 3.3: Showing the after effects of a landslide that took place in Petit Valley in 2007.

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Figure 4.1: Showing as the different Tectonic Plates.

occur after an earthquake, depending on its magnitude. Some of the major impacts are as follows:

1) Damage to infrastructure: includes the destruction of buildings (Figure 4.2), bridges, roads and power lines.

2) Landslides and Tsunamis could be as a result of earthquakes of high magnitudes. Landslides and tsunamis are natural disasters in their own right and are capable of causing mass destruction. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in the world was a 9.5 earthquake that affected Chile in 1960. The earthquake was powerful enough to cause a Tsunami that affected southern Chile, Hawaii, Japan, the Philippines, New Zealand and Australia.

3) Death: people are unfortunately claimed as victims, but the amount of people that can lose their lives could be decreased if people properly educate themselves on how to act during such a disaster.

Since earthquake events CANNOT be predicted, there is no given time in which to prepare for this type of disaster. This is why it is necessary to safeguard your homes and other structures when they are being built.

Before an Earthquake:1) Follow building codes when constructing homes and other buildings. Building codes are a set of standards that ensures that all buildings are built as strong as possible. Buildings that are not built on a strong foundation or are not built on sturdy ground are more susceptible to sustaining damage during an earthquake. Earthquakes are also known to cause cracks in the foundation and walls of structures, which can further threaten the stability of the structures. The 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti in January 2010, caused much more structural damage than the 8.8 earthquake that hit Chile in February, 2010, even though the magnitude was lower because of how the buildings were constructed. The buildings in Chile were built stronger and therefore better able to withstand the violent shaking of the earthquake.

2) Bolt down bookshelves and other similar objects to the ground and to the walls to prevent them from toppling over during an earthquake. Place heavy objects on bottom shelves.

3) Prepare and practice an evacuation route with all family members. When you perform evacuation drills, it would help decrease the level

of panic experienced and would therefore help lessen any sort of confusion that occurs when a disaster strikes.

4) Identify safe places indoors and outdoors where it is safe to be, such as under a sturdy table or at the inside wall or corner of a building.

During an Earthquake:1) First of all, it is important to stay calm and not to panic.

2) If indoors, do not run outside.

3) If, indoors, find a sturdy table or a sturdy piece of furniture to get under, curl into a ball and hold on (Figure 4.3) or stand under a strong doorway. Don’t go anywhere near glass windows or doors, since these can shatter.

4) Do not use elevators or stairs

5) Move away from heavy objects such as bookcases and cupboards.

6) If outside, try to get as far away as possible from power lines and buildings from which debris can fall.

After an Earthquake:1) Do a head count to ensure that everybody is safely out of the building.

2) Check water mains and utility lines for damages. Report any damages to the relevant utility company such as T&TEC and WASA.

3) Check the walls and ceilings for any structural damage and evacuate if there is any threat of collapse.

4) Check for injuries and seek medical attention or use a first aid kit if the injuries are not too serious.

5) Turn on a radio and listen for emergency bulletins.

6) Stay away from areas prone to landslides.

7) Be prepared for aftershocks.

8) Help your neighbours as much as possible.

Some significant earthquakes that have affected Trinidad and Tobago in the past are:

1) In 1766, an earthquake measuring a 7.9 on the Richter scale destroyed San Jose, which was the

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capital city at the time.

2) In 1997, a 6.1 earthquake injured two (2) and left fifteen (15) homeless in Tobago. It caused an estimated twenty five (25) million US dollars worth of damages.

3) In 2000, a 5.8 earthquake affected Trinidad. A sewer line at a primary school in Preysal was ruptured. The effects of the earthquake were felt as far away as St. Vincent.

Islands that are located in the Eastern Caribbean are susceptible to earthquakes due to the amount of seismic activity (activity responsible for earthquakes) that occurs in this region. This means that Trinidad and Tobago is vulnerable to experiencing earthquakes since the islands are part of the Eastern Caribbean. Once again countless lives can be saved if the necessary precautions are taken to protect our homes from the disastrous effects of these unpredictable killers.

Figure 4.3: Showing the safest way to protect yourself in the event of an earthquake.

Figure 4.2: Showing a home destroyed by an earthquake in Tobago and the importance of following proper building codes when constructing homes and other structures.

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In 2004, the Sumatra Tsunami was responsible for the deaths of over 250 000 people and affected over eleven (11) countries including Indonesia, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Kenya and Somalia, making it the deadliest natural disaster in recent times. Most people believe that a tsunami is just one huge wave that crashes onto the coast but in fact, a tsunami consists of a series of large forceful waves referred to as the wave train. These waves could range in height from a couple of feet to over a hundred (100) feet.

Tsunamis can be defined as large destructive waves that are generated by large underwater disturbances. Scientists have identified four (4) major events that allow these destructive waves to form. These events are as follows:

1) EarthquakesEarthquakes that occur under the sea (Submarine Earthquakes) or near to coastlines can lead to a tsunami. The size of the resulting tsunami is usually directly related to the size of the earthquake that causes the tsunami, in that, the larger the magnitude of the earthquake, the larger the tsunami. The 2004 Sumatra tsunami is a perfect example, since it was an underwater earthquake measuring a 9.1 on the Richter scale

that occurred off the coast of Sumatra that was responsible for the Tsunami. In 2011, Japan also suffered severe damage due to a tsunami that was triggered by an 8.9 magnitude earthquake (Figures 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3). The tsunami resulted in the loss of over 12,000 lives, with over 14,000 persons still missing. The waves were strong enough to completely destroy over 14,000 buildings. According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC), Haiti also suffered the effects of a minor tsunami after it was struck by an earthquake in January, 2010. Homes near the coast were flooded out and in some cases even destroyed. Tsunamis can also be as unpredictable as the earthquakes from which they are derived. If the initiating earthquake occurs very close to the coastline, then as a result a tsunami could strike the shoreline within minutes. If the source of the earthquake is a far distance away from the shore, then it could be hours before the tsunami strikes.

2) Volcanic EruptionsWhen the Indonesian volcano, Krakatau, erupted in 1883, three tsunamis were generated that killed about 36 417 people.

3) LandslidesOne of the largest tsunamis, whose waves measured over one hundred feet (100ft), was a consequence (result) of a large scale landslide in Alaska in 1958.

5.0 Tsunamis

Figure 5.1: Showing how tsunami waves look, they are not crystal clear blue water like Hawaiian waves. The waves contain material from the ocean bed and debris. (Tsunami that affected Japan in 2011).

Figure 5.2: Showing the effects of the 2011 Japanese Tsunami, buildings and homes were reduced to rubble after the event.

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4) Meteorite ImpactsA meteorite is a large rock from space that strikes the earth. If this were to happen, the force of impact can be so strong as to cause a powerful and deadly tsunami. Historically, an event such as previously described has never been documented but is considered to be a possibility.

Most of the catastrophic destruction inflicted by a tsunami is mainly due to the destructive nature of the waves themselves, however these huge waves could contain within them debris that could smash into buildings and other structures, resulting in further damage. Tsunamis can also cause severe coastal flooding which can reach far distances inland (Figure 5.3). It also demonstrates how vulnerable islands could be to the catastrophic effects of tsunamis.

Trinidad and Tobago has been fortunate enough to have never experienced a tsunami but we are an island nation and therefore certain precautionary measures must be put in place. Firstly one must learn to recognize the warning signs of a possible tsunami strike. These warning

signs include:

1) Severe ground shaking/earthquake: A strong earthquake lasting twenty (20) seconds or more near the coast is capable of triggering a tsunami.

2) A noticeable rise and fall in coastal waters. When a tsunami is approaching, the water may recede or move (back) a very far distance away from the coast to such an extent as to expose natural reefs and fishes.

3) An approaching tsunami would make a very loud ‘roaring’ sound which is quite similar to that of a jet aircraft.

If you live within three kilometers (3km) from the coast, then your home would be at risk of feeling the impacts of a tsunami should one strike. It is therefore important that the fastest route (way) to get to higher ground is mapped out and an evacuation plan be created and discussed with all the members of the family. The same rules apply if you are vacationing near a coastal area. It is essential to find out if there is there is a tsunami

Figure 5.4: Showing an aerial view of what Banda Aceh, Indonesia looked like before and after the 2004 tsunami.

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Figure 5.3: Showing some of the damages that were done by Japanese Tsunami in 2011.

evacuation plan at the hotel and how you can be warned.

Learning what to do in the event of a tsunami is also of critical importance and could help to save your life as well as the lives of your loved ones. Therefore if you observe any of the tsunami warning signs, you must try to get to higher ground immediately. Do not wait until you get an official tsunami warning to leave the beach. In the case where you feel an earthquake on the beach, it is firstly important that you protect yourself from the earthquake. Once the earthquake stops, you must immediately leave the beach and try to get to higher land as quickly as possible. If you are in a building near the coast, move to a high story or onto the roof to escape rising waters. If you are unable to get to higher ground fast enough, climb a tree and hold onto a branch very tightly.

It is important to remember that a tsunami consists of a series of waves so it would be unsafe to try to return to coastal areas before official word that it is safe to return is released.

After a tsunami event, listen to a radio to get the latest emergency information. Do not go in flood waters since their depths can easily be underestimated (misread) which can lead to drowning. Stay out of damaged buildings and report any damaged waterlines and electricity poles to the relevant authority. Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least fifteen (15) minutes. Do not eat food that has been in contact with flood water, and eat only perishable food.

Citizens should be tsunami smart especially since Trinidad and Tobago is a twin island nation, completely surrounded by water. Tsunamis could sometimes be unpredictable and are certainly deadly, therefore it is of utmost importance that people learn to identify the warning signs and educate themselves on the actions that should be undertaking if any of the warning signs are observed.

Be tsunami smart!

6.0 FIRES

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Fires occur naturally, when lightning strikes dry vegetation or by volcanic eruptions, but in the Caribbean, especially in Trinidad and Tobago, fires are chiefly caused by man’s actions, whether deliberate or accidental.

Fires can start due to a multitude of reasons but the major ones are:

1) The careless discarding of cigarette butts in vegetated areas or near flammable objects. Any material that can catch on fire easily and burn rapidly can be described as flammable.

2) Poor agricultural practices such as that of slash and burn agriculture (Figure 6.1) is the main cause of bush or wild fires in Trinidad and Tobago. It is considered to be a time effective method by which existing vegetation could be removed from land, so that a new set of crops could be planted. What people fail to realize about this practice is that not only is the vegetation being removed but the nutrients found in the soil needed for plants to grow are also being burnt. Slash and burn agriculture can ironically cause the land to become infertile and incapable of allowing plants to grow (Figure 6.2). This increases the possibility of landslides and

flooding events occurring. It is important to note that bush fires occur the most during the months of February to May, in Trinidad and Tobago.

3) Electrical fires can start due to faulty electrical appliances. Fires can also start when certain electrical appliances are left plugged in and unattended. When curling heaters and ironers are left on unsupervised, the heat produced by these appliances could ignite or set fire to flammable objects.

4) Another form of human negligence that can cause a fire is when heat sources such as lit candles and stoves are left unattended. This reason combined with the amount of electrical appliances that are found in the kitchen, makes it one of the most common rooms in the home where fires begin.

Fires can start through accidental and simple means, but fires can quickly become uncontrollable and turn deadly once three (3) things are present. The three (3) factors that must be present in order for a fire to start and to persist are:

1) An ignition source. This is a heat source that has enough energy to ignite (set fire to) a material. Example of ignition sources would be lighters, matches and an electric spark to name a few.

Figure 6.1: Showing how the practice of slash and burn agriculture is carried out in Trinidad.

Figure 6.2: showing what the land looks like after the vegetation has been removed by forest fires in Trinidad.

2) Flammable or combustible materials must be present. These are any materials or objects that can burn easily such as vegetation, wood and even liquids such as oil and gasoline.

3) An adequate supply of oxygen.

Fires can happen when you least expect them and could be caused by an unlikely source. This is why it is necessary to do all that we can to decrease the possibility of a fire occurring in our homes.

Before a Fire1) Obtain a fire extinguisher and ensure that all family members learn how to use it. The fire extinguishers should be kept in a location that is visible to and accessible by all. Fire extinguishers should also be serviced or maintain regularly to ensure that they continue to work.

2) All children must be taught that playing with matches is wrong and dangerous. Matches and lighters should also be kept in places where children can’t reach or see them.

3) Ensure that all keys for windows and doors are visible and accessible to all members of the family.

4) Create an evacuation plan and perform practice drills from time to time so that all family

members remember what they should do in the event of a fire. This can help to prevent family members from panicking excessively when there’s a fire.

5) Regularly check for faulty wiring and repair any errors at once.

6) Always turn off the gas from cooking tanks when not in use and check for leaks.

7) Unplug all electrical appliances after being used and never leave any lit heat sources such as stoves and candles unattended.

8) Smoke alarms could be placed in all rooms of the house.

Educating yourself and others on what to do should a fire occur can help to save yours or someone else’s life. Most people try to protect themselves from the flames of a fire but it is the breathing in of the smoke that is responsible for the most amounts of deaths. Having the knowledge and practicing it also helps to reduce the level of panic that one may experience during such a traumatizing event. This can help one to escape from a fire unharmed.

During a Fire 1) Don’t stop to investigate the fire or look for pets.

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2) Evacuate the building if the fire is too big to control.

3) If there is a lot of smoke cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth and stay as low to as the ground as possible until you escape from the building.

4) If your clothing has caught on fire, Stop Drop and Roll. Do not run.

5) Contact the nearest fire station (990) and report the fire as soon as possible.

6) When escaping check for the warmth of the door with the back of your hand. If the door is warm,

don’t open it because that warmth is a sign that the fire has reached to the other side of the door.

7) Once out of the building, stay out of the building. Do not return into a burning building. If someone is still inside, immediately inform a fireman.

8) After a fire event immediately seek medical attention if you inhale smoke or suffered any burns.

Although fires can occur due to natural causes, most of the fires in Trinidad and Tobago are mainly due to either the deliberate or accidental actions of man. By educating people on the causes of fires and how to quickly react to them, the negative effects of fires can be decreased.

7.0 Pandemics

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Figure 7.2: Showing the distinctive white spots found on the Aedes aegytpi mosquito.

A pandemic is an outbreak of an infectious disease affecting human populations over a large region example in tropical areas or around the world. A major pandemic that have affected Trinidad and Tobago in recent times is Dengue.

Dengue is common in tropical areas like the Caribbean, Africa and Asia and it is a virus that CANNOT be passed directly from one person to a next. Instead dengue can only be transmitted from one human to another via a vector, which is an organism that is able to transmit a disease. The vector responsible for transmitting dengue from one human to the next is the Aedes aegytpi mosquito (Figure 7.2).

A person can start showing symptoms of dengue after four to six (4-6) days have passed. Dengue symptoms are also similar to that of the common cold.

Symptoms of Dengue:• Fever• Joint and bone pains• Nausea• Vomiting• Headaches• Fatigue• A rash may occur three to four days after the person starts suffering from fever

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a more severe form of the dengue virus. The symptoms are more severe than the dengue virus, though they are very similar.

Symptoms of DHF include:• Abdominal pain• Hemorrhaging (bleeding)• Shock which occurs after two to six (2-6) days• Continuous fever and headache• Respiratory problems• Cool clammy hands• Weak pulse• Blueness around the mouth• Blood spots on skin and blood in stool• Bleeding gums• Nosebleeds

There are no vaccines for dengue or dengue hemorrhaging fever. A person can recover from dengue by getting plenty of rest, fluids or by taking medication such as Paracetamol or Acetaminophen (Panadol / Tylenol.) Avoid taking medication such as Aspirin, Motrin, Cataflam, Olfen or Ibuprofen. These can cause bleeding which leads to shock. The most important thing to do to help one recover from dengue would be to drink lots of fluid.

Prevention is always better than a cure therefore if people take steps in preventing the breeding

of mosquitoes or take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes, dengue outbreaks can be better controlled. The Ministry of Health advises that some proactive measures that people can take to decrease the breeding of mosquitoes and the spreading of dengue include:

• Getting rid of all unwanted containers that water can collect in and around the home. This is an effective method since mosquitoes breed in still or stagnant water.

• Dispose of garbage around homes such as styrofoam cups and containers, old tyres.

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• Properly covering all water storage containers like barrels and buckets with a cover or with a material that wouldn’t allow mosquitoes to get in.• Emptying and scrubbing vases

• Clearing gutters and drains of all debris

• Using mosquito repellent sprays

Dengue can be very deadly diseases but only if we allow them to. Taking preventative measures is the best defense against these and any other diseases.

Aftershock: Smaller earthquake that takes place after the largest or main earthquakeCoastal Flooding: Flooding that occurs in coastal areas because of sea water moving more inlandCrust: The outermost layer of the Earth made out of rock which is not continuous but in fact broken into several larger pieces called Tectonic PlatesDeforestation: The process of cutting trees and other types of vegetation from the landEarthquake: A natural hazard which occurs when the ground shakes or rocks violentlyFlammable Material: Materials that can be easily burnedFloodplain: Land that is directly adjacent to rivers; this land is usually low lying and is easily floodedGravity: Gravity is an invisible force that pulls all objects towards EarthHurricane: A hurricane can be defined as a violent storm that has surface winds with speeds of over 118 kilometers per hour (km/hr).Hurricane Season: A six (6) month period during which hurricanes are most likely to occur. It starts on June 1st and ends on 30th NovemberHurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected within thirty six (36) hours. Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are expected within forty eight (48) hours. Landfall: A hurricane is said to make landfall which it directly passes over landLandslide: A landslide is the rapid mass movement of soil, mud and/or rocks downhill due to the pull of gravityMeteorologists: Scientists who study the weatherMet Office: Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services Division: responsible for monitoring the weather and making weather predictions.Pandemic: An outbreak of an infectious disease affecting human populations over a large region example in tropical areas or around the worldPlate Boundary: The place where two or more tectonic plates meetQuarrying: This refers to the cutting away or excavation of hilly or mountainous areas so that rocks and minerals can be extracted from the landRelief: This refers to the highest and lowest points on landRichter Scale: Registers the magnitude of an earthquakeRiverbank: The sloped piece of land directly adjacent to any waterwayRiverbed: The land directly over which the river naturally flows/ the bottom of a river channelSaffir-Simpson Scale: Scale used to classify hurricanes according to their strengths. It also informs on what type of damage would be expect for a hurricane of a certain category.Saturated Soil: Soil that has absorbed all the water that it can holdSeismologist: A scientist who studies earthquakesSlash And Burn Agriculture: A farming practice used to remove existing vegetation from the land by burning itStorm Surge: Temporary rise in sea level, near coastal areas, due to adverse weather conditionsSubmarine Earthquakes: Earthquakes that takes place undersea or beneath the oceanTsunami: A tsunami can be defined as large destructive waves that are generated by large underwater disturbancesVector: Any organism that transmits a disease from one person to anotherViral Disease: A disease caused by a virus

Glossary

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National Disaster Preparedness Primary School’s Quiz 2011For further information: www.odpm.gov.tt

For quiz information contact: Colthrust PR Ltd, 56 Alfredo Street, Woodbrook

Tel: 221-6154, Fax: 628-9664