DM Essay

6/13/2018 Earthquakes - National Disaster Management Authority
Information
Earthquake
An earthquake is a phenomenon that occurs without warning and involves violent shaking of the ground and
everything over it. It results from the release of accumulated stress of the moving lithospheric or crustal plates. The
earth's crust is divided into seven major plates, that are about 50 miles thick, which move slowly and continuously
over the earth's interior and several minor plates. Earthquakes are tectonic in origin; that is the moving plates are
responsible for the occurrence of violent shakes. The occurrence of an earthquake in a populated area may cause
numerous casualties and injuries as well as extensive damage to property.
The Earthquake Risk in India

India's increasing population and extensive unscientific constructions mushrooming all over, including
multistoried luxury apartments, huge factory buildings, gigantic malls, supermarkets as well as warehouses and
masonry buildings keep - India at high risk. During the last 15 years, the country has experienced 10 major
earthquakes that have resulted in over 20,000 deaths. As per the current seismic zone map of the country (IS 1893:
2002), over 59 per cent of India’s land area is under threat of moderate to severe seismic hazard-; that means it is
prone to shaking of MSK Intensity VII and above (BMTPC, 2006). In fact, the entire Himalayan belt is considered
prone to great earthquakes of magnitude exceeding 8.0-; and in a relatively short span of about 50 years, four such
earthquakes have occurred: 1897 Shillong (M8.7); 1905 Kangra (M8.0); 1934 Bihar-Nepal (M8.3); and 1950 Assam-
Tibet (M8.6). Scientific publications have warned of the likelihood of the occurrence of very severe earthquakes in the
Himalayan region, which could adversely affect the lives of several million people in India.
At one time regions of the country away from the Himalayas and other inter-plate boundaries were considered to be
relatively safe from damaging earthquakes. However, in the recent past, even these areas have experienced
devastating earthquakes, albeit of lower magnitude than the Himalayan earthquakes. The Koyna earthquake in 1967
led to revision of the seismic zoning map, resulting in deletion of the non-seismic zone from the map. The areas
surrounding Koyna were also re-designated to Seismic Zone IV, indicating high hazard. The occurrence of the Killari
earthquake in 1993 resulted in further revision of the seismic zoning map in which the low hazard zone or Seismic
Zone I was merged with Seismic Zone II, and some parts of Deccan and Peninsular India were brought under Seismic
Zone III consisting of areas designated as moderate hazard zone areas. Recent research suggests that as
understanding of the seismic hazard of these regions increases, more areas assigned as low hazard may be re-
designated to higher level of seismic hazard, or vice-versa.
The North-Eastern part of the country continues to experience moderate to large earthquakes at frequent intervals
including the two great earthquakes mentioned above. Since 1950, the region has experienced several moderate
earthquakes. On an average, the region experiences an earthquake with a magnitude greater than 6.0 every year.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also situated on an inter-plate boundary and frequently experience damaging
earthquakes.
The increase in earthquake risk is due to a spurt in developmental activities driven by urbanization, economic
development and the globalization of India’s economy. The increase in use of high-technology equipment and tools in
manufacturing and service industries has also made them susceptible to disruption due to relatively moderate ground
shaking. As a result, loss of human life is not the only determinant of earthquake risk any more. Severe economic
losses leading to the collapse of the local or regional economy after an earthquake may have long-term adverse
consequences for the entire country. This effect would be further magnified if an earthquake affects a mega-city, such
as Delhi or Mumbai.
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6/13/2018 Do's and Dont's - National Disaster Management Authority
What to Do Before an Earthquake
Repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.
Anchor overhead lighting fixtures to the ceiling.
Follow BIS codes relevant to your area for building standards
Fasten shelves securely to walls.
Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.
Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds, settees, and anywhere that people sit.
Brace overhead light and fan fixtures.
Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks.
Secure water heaters, LPG cylinders etc., by strapping them to the walls or bolting to the floor.
Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom
shelves.
Identify safe places indoors and outdoors.
Under strong dining table, bed
Against an inside wall
Away from where glass could shatter around windows, mirrors, pictures, or where heavy bookcases or other heavy furniture
could fall over
In the open, away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, flyovers and bridges
Know emergency telephone numbers (such as those of doctors, hospitals, the police, etc)
Educate yourself and family members
Awareness Generation Resources for Earthquake Diasaster Management

Disaster(Earthquake) Resistant Construction Practice
Techno Legal Regime for Safe Construction Practice (Model Amendment in Town & Country Planning Legislations, Regulation for
Land Use Zoning and Building Byelaws for Structural Safety)
Past Programmes/Projects, Resource Materials on Earthquake Risk Management.
Have a disaster emergency kit ready
Battery operated torch with extra batteries

Battery operated radio
First aid kit and manual
Emergency food (dry items) and water (packed and sealed)
Candles and matches in a waterproof container
Knife
Chlorine tablets or powdered water purifiers
Can opener.
Essential medicines
Cash and credit cards
Thick ropes and cords
Sturdy shoes
Develop an emergency communication plan
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In case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake (a real possibility during the day
when adults are at work and children are at school), develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster.
Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the 'family contact' after the disaster; it is often easier to call long
distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.
Help your community get ready
Publish a special section in your local newspaper with emergency information on earthquakes. Localize the
information by printing the phone numbers of local emergency services offices and hospitals.
Conduct week-long series on locating hazards in the home.
Work with local emergency services and officials to prepare special reports for people with mobility impairment on
what to do during an earthquake.
Provide tips on conducting earthquake drills in the home.
Interview representatives of the gas, electric, and water companies about shutting off utilities.
Work together in your community to apply your knowledge to building codes, retrofitting programmes, hazard hunts,
and neighborhood and family emergency plans.
What to Do During an Earthquake
Stay as safe as possible during an earthquake. Be aware that some earthquakes are actually foreshocks and a larger
earthquake might occur. Minimize your movements to a few steps that reach a nearby safe place and stay indoors
until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting is safe.
If indoors
DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until
the shaking stops. If there is no a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in
an inside corner of the building.
Protect yourself by staying under the lintel of an inner door, in the corner of a room, under a table or even under a
bed.
Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, (such as lighting fixtures or
furniture).
Stay in bed if you are there when the earthquake strikes. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you
are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, load
bearing doorway.
Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when
people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.
If outdoors
Do not move from where you are. However, move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires.
If you are in open space, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings; at
exits; and alongside exterior walls. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and
falling objects.
If in a moving vehicle
Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses,
and utility wires.
Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges, or ramps that might have been
damaged by the earthquake.
If trapped under debris
Do not light a match.

Do not move about or kick up dust.
Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort.
Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
6/13/2018 Floods - National Disaster Management Authority
Floods
India is highly vulnerable to floods. Out of the total geographical area of 329 million hectares (mha), more than 40
mha is flood prone. Floods are a recurrent phenomenon, which cause huge loss of lives and damage to livelihood
systems, property, infrastructure and public utilities. It is a cause for concern that flood related damages show an
increasing trend. The average annual flood damage in the last 10 years period from 1996 to 2005 was Rs. 4745 crore
as compared to Rs. 1805 crore, the corresponding average for the previous 53 years. This can be attributed to many
reasons including a steep increase in population, rapid urbanization growing developmental and economic activities in
flood plains coupled with global warming.
An average every year, 75 lakh hectares of land is affected, 1600 lives are lost and the damage caused to crops,
houses and public utilities is Rs.1805 crores due to floods. The maximum number of lives (11,316) was lost in the
year 1977. The frequency of major floods is more than once in five years.
Floods have also occurred in areas, which were earlier not considered flood prone. An effort has been made in these
Guidelines to cover the entire gamut of Flood Management. Eighty per cent of the precipitation takes place in the
monsoon months from June to September. The rivers a bring heavy sediment load from catchments. These, coupled
with inadequate carrying capacity of rivers are responsible for causing floods, drainage congestion and erosion of
river-banks. Cyclones, cyclonic circulations and cloud bursts cause flash floods and lead to huge losses. It is a fact
that some of the rivers causing damage in India originate in neighboring countries; adding another complex dimension
to the problem. Continuing and large-scale loss of lives and damage to public and private property due to floods
indicate that we are still to develop an effective response to floods. NDMA's Executive Summary Guidelines have
been prepared to enable the various implementing and stakeholder agencies to effectively address the critical areas
for minimising flood damage.
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What to do before a flood

To prepare for a flood, you should:
Avoid building in flood prone areas unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
Install "Check Valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
Contact community officials to find out if they are planning to construct barriers (levees, beams and floodwalls) to
stop floodwater from entering the homes in your area.
Seal the walls in your basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
If a flood is likely to hit your area, you should:
Listen to the radio or television for information.

Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher
ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can
occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
If you must prepare to evacuate, you should:
Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch
electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:
Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk
where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if
you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.
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6/13/2018 Cyclones - National Disaster Management Authority
Cyclones
Cyclones are caused by atmospheric disturbances around a low-pressure area distinguished by swift and often
destructive air circulation. Cyclones are usually accompanied by violent storms and bad weather. The air circulates
inward in an anticlockwise direction in the Northern hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern hemisphere. Cyclones
are classified as: (i) extra tropical cyclones (also called temperate cyclones); and (ii) tropical cyclones. The word
Cyclone is derived from the Greek word Cyclos meaning the coils of a snake. It was coined by Henry Peddington
because the tropical storms in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea appear like coiled serpents of the sea.
Classifications
Cyclones are classified as extra tropical cyclones (also called temperate cyclones); and tropical cyclones.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO, 1976) uses the term 'Tropical Cyclone’ to cover weather systems in
which winds exceed ‘Gale Force’ (minimum of 34 knots or 63 kph). Tropical cyclones are the progeny of ocean and
atmosphere, powered by the heat from the sea; and driven by easterly trades and temperate westerlies, high
planetary winds and their own fierce energy.
In India, cyclones are classified by:

Strength of associated winds,
Storm surges
Exceptional rainfall occurrences.
Extra tropical cyclones occur in temperate zones and high latitude regions, though they are known to originate in
the Polar Regions.
Cyclones that developin the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer are called tropical cyclones.
Tropical cyclones are large-scale weather systems developing over tropical or subtropical waters, where they get
organized into surface wind circulation.
Worldwide terminology
Cyclones are given many names in different regions of the world – They are known as typhoons in the China Sea and
Pacific Ocean; hurricanes in the West Indian islands in the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean; tornados in the Guinea
lands of West Africa and southern USA.; willy-willies in north-western Australia and tropical cyclones in the Indian
Ocean.
Indian Meteorological Department
The criteria below has been formulated by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which classifies the low
pressure systems in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea on the basis of capacity to damage, which is adopted by
the WMO.
Type of Disturbances Wind Speed in Km/h Wind Speed in Knots
Low Pressure Less than 31 Less than 17
Depression 31-49 17-27
Deep Depression 49-61 27-33
Cyclonic Storm 61-88 33-47
Severe Cyclonic Storm 88-117 47-63
Super Cyclone More than 221 More than 120
1 knot - 1.85 km per hour

Cyclones are classified into five different levels on the basis of wind speed. They are further divided into the following
categories according to their capacity to cause damage:-
Cyclone Category Wind Speed in Km/h Damage Capacity
01 120-150 Minimal
02 150-180 Moderate
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03 180-210 Extensive
04 210-250 Extreme
05 250 and above Catastrophic
Storm surges (tidal waves) are defined as the rise in sea level above the normally predicted astronomical tide. Major
factors include:
A fall in the atmospheric pressure over the sea surface
Effect of the wind
Influence of the sea bed
A funnelling effect
The angle and speed at which the storm approaches the coast
The tides
The very high specific humidity condenses into exceptionally large raindrops and giant cumulus clouds, resulting in
high precipitation rates. When a cyclone makes landfall, rain rapidly saturates the catchment areas and the rapid
runoff may extensively flood the usual water sources or create new ones.
How Cyclones are formed
The development cycle of tropical cyclones may be divided into three stages:
Formation and Initial Development Stage

The formation and initial development of a cyclonic storm depends upon various conditions. These are:
A warm sea (a temperature in excess of 26 degrees Celsius to a depth of 60 m) with abundant and turbulent
transfer of water vapour to the overlying atmosphere by evaporation.
Atmospheric instability encouraging formation of massive vertical cumulus clouds due to convection with
condensation of rising air above ocean surface.
Mature Tropical Cyclones
When a tropical storm intensifies, the air rises in vigorous thunderstorms and tends to spread out horizontally at the
tropopause level. Once air spreads out, a positive perturbation pressure at high levels is produced, which accelerates
the downward motion of air due to convection. With the inducement of subsidence, air warms up by compression and
a warm ‘Eye’ is generated. Generally, the ‘Eye’ of the storms has three basic shapes: (i) circular; (ii) concentric;
and (iii) elliptical. The main physical feature of a mature tropical cyclone in the Indian Ocean is a concentric pattern of
highly turbulent giant cumulus thundercloud bands.
Modification and Decay

A tropical cyclone begins to weaken in terms of its central low pressure, internal warmth and extremely high speeds,
as soon as its source of warm moist air begins to ebb, or is abruptly cut off. This happens after its landfall or when it
passes over cold waters. The weakening of a cyclone does not mean that the danger to life and property is over.
Indian Context
The Indian subcontinent is one of the worst affected regions in the world. The subcontinent with a long coastline of
8041 kilometres is exposed to nearly 10 per cent of the world’s tropical cyclones. Of these, the majority of them have
their initial genesis over the Bay of Bengal and strike the East coast of India. On an average, five to six tropical
cyclones form every year, of which two or three could be severe. More cyclones occur in the Bay of Bengal than the
Arabian Sea and the ratio is approximately 4:1. Cyclones occur frequently on both the coasts (the West coast -
Arabian Sea; and the East coast - Bay of Bengal). An analysis of the frequency of cyclones on the East and West
coasts of India between 1891 and 1990 shows that nearly 262 cyclones occurred (92 of these severe) in a 50 km
wide strip above the East coast. Less severe cyclonic activity has been noticed on the West coast, where 33 cyclones
occurred the same period, out of which 19 of were severe.
Tropical cyclones occur in the months of May-June and October-November. Cyclones of severe intensity and
frequency in the North Indian Ocean are bi-modal in character, with their primary peak in November and secondary
peak in May. The disaster potential is particularly high during landfall in the North Indian Ocean (Bay of Bengal and
the Arabian Sea) due to the accompanying destructive wind, storm surges and torrential rainfall. Of these, storm
surges cause the most damage as sea water inundates low lying areas of coastal regions and causes heavy floods,
erodes beaches and embankments, destroys vegetation and reduces soil fertility.
Cyclones vary in diameter from 50 to 320 km but their effects dominate thousands of square kilometers of ocean
surface and the lower atmosphere. The perimeter may measure 1,000 km but the powerhouse is located within the
100-km radius. Nearer the Eye, winds may hit at a speed of 320 km. Thus, tropical cyclones, characterized by
destructive winds, torrential rainfall and storm surges disrupt normal life with the accompanying phenomena of floods
due to the exceptional level of rainfall and storm surge inundation into inland areas. Cyclones are characterized by
their devastating potential to damage structures, viz. houses; lifeline infrastructure-power and communication towers;
hospitals; food storage facilities; roads, bridges and culverts; cropss etc. The most fatalities come from storm surges
and the torrential rain flooding the lowland areas of coastal territories.
Recommended Practices for Improving Cyclonic Resistance of Dwellings/Low-rise Buildings
Cyclone Prone Districts
Environment and Social management Framework - The National Cyclone Risk Management Project (NCRMP).
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Before the Cyclone season:
Check the house; secure loose tiles and carry out repairs of doors and windows
Remove dead branches or dying trees close to the house; anchor removable objects such as lumber piles, loose tin
sheets, loose bricks, garbage cans, sign-boards etc. which can fly in strong winds
Keep some wooden boards ready so that glass windows can be boarded if needed
Keep a hurricane lantern filled with kerosene, battery operated torches and enough dry cells
Demolish condemned buildings
Keep some extra batteries for transistors
Keep some dry non-perishable food always ready for use in emergency
Necessary actions
The actions that need to be taken in the event of a cyclone threat can broadly be divided into :
Immediately before the cyclone season

When cyclone alerts and warnings are communicated
When evacuations are advised
When the cyclone has crossed the coast
When the Cyclone starts
Listen to the radio (All India Radio stations give weather warnings).
Keep monitoring the warnings. This will help you prepare for a cyclone emergency.
Pass the information to others.
Ignore rumours and do not spread them; this will help to avoid panic situations.
Believe in the official information
When a cyclone alert is on for your area continue normal working but stay alert to the radio warnings.
Stay alert for the next 24 hours as a cyclone alert means that the danger is within 24 hours.
When your area is under cyclone warning get away from low-lying beaches or other low-lying areas close to
the coast
Leave early before your way to high ground or shelter gets flooded
Do not delay and run the risk of being marooned
If your house is securely built on high ground take shelter in the safe part of the house. However, if asked to
evacuate do not hesitate to leave the place.
Board up glass windows or put storm shutters in place.
Provide strong suitable support for outside doors.
If you do not have wooden boards handy, paste paper strips on glasses to prevent splinters. However, this may not
avoid breaking windows.
Get extra food, which can be eaten without cooking. Store extra drinking water in suitably covered vessels.
If you have to evacuate the house move your valuable articles to upper floors to minimize flood damage.
Ensure that your hurricane lantern, torches or other emergency lights are in working condition and keep them
handy.
Small and loose things, which can fly in strong winds, should be stored safely in a room.
Be sure that a window and door can be opened only on the side opposite to the one facing the wind.
Make provision for children and adults requiring special diet.
If the centre of the cyclone is passing directly over your house there will be a lull in the wind and rain lasting for half
an hour or so. During this time do not go out; because immediately after that, very strong winds will blow from the
opposite direction.
Switch off the electrical mains in your house.
Remain calm.
When Evacuation is instructed
Pack essentials for yourself and your family to last a few days. These should include medicines, special food for
babies and children or elders.
Head for the proper shelter or evacuation points indicated for your area.
Do not worry about your property
At the shelter follow instructions of the person in charge.
Remain in the shelter until you are informed to leave
Post-cyclone measures
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You should remain in the shelter until informed that you can return to your home.
You must get inoculated against diseases immediately.
Strictly avoid any loose and dangling wires from lamp posts.
If you have to drive, do drive carefully.
Clear debris from your premises immediately.
Report the correct losses to appropriate authorities.
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6/13/2018 Heat Wave - National Disaster Management Authority
Heat Wave
A Heat Wave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs
during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India. Heat Waves typically occur between March and June,
and in some rare cases even extend till July. The extreme temperatures and resultant atmospheric conditions
adversely affect people living in these regions as they cause physiological stress, sometimes resulting in death.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has given the following criteria for Heat Waves :
Heat Wave need not be considered till maximum temperature of a station reaches atleast 40*C for Plains and
atleast 30*C for Hilly regions
When normal maximum temperature of a station is less than or equal to 40*C Heat Wave Departure from normal is
5*C to 6*C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 7*C or more
When normal maximum temperature of a station is more than 40*C Heat Wave Departure from normal is 4*C to
5*C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 6*C or more
When actual maximum temperature remains 45*C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, heat
waves should be declared. Higher daily peak temperatures and longer, more intense heat waves are becomingly
increasingly frequent globally due to climate change. India too is feeling the impact of climate change in terms of
increased instances of heat waves which are more intense in nature with each passing year, and have a
devastating impact on human health thereby increasing the number of heat wave casualties.
Higher daily peak temperatures and longer, more intense heat waves are becomingly increasingly frequent globally
due to climate change. India too is feeling the impact of climate change in terms of increased instances of heat waves
which are more intense in nature with each passing year, and have a devastating impact on human health thereby
increasing the number of heat wave casualties.
Health Impacts of Heat Waves
The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke.
The signs and symptoms are as follows:
Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (Fainting) generally accompanied by fever below 39*C i.e.102*F.
Heat Exhaustion: Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and sweating.
Heat Stoke: Body temperatures of 40*C i.e. 104*F or more along with delirium, seizures or coma. This is a potential
fatal condition
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Heat Wave conditions can result in physiological strain, which could even result in death.
To minimise the impact during the heat wave and to prevent serious ailment or death because of heat stroke, you can
take the following measures:
Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.
Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty
Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or
chappals while going out in sun.
Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3
p.m.
While travelling, carry water with you.
Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrates the body.
Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.
If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs
Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles
If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.
Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc. which helps to re-hydrate
the body.
Keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink.
Keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshade and open windows at night.
Use fans, damp clothing and take bath in cold water frequently.
TIPS FOR TREATMENT OF A PERSON AFFECTED BY A SUNSTROKE:
Lay the person in a cool place, under a shade. Wipe her/him with a wet cloth/wash the body frequently. Pour
normal temperature water on the head. The main thing is to bring down the body temperature.
Give the person ORS to drink or lemon sarbat/torani or whatever is useful to rehydrate the body.
Take the person immediately to the nearest health centre. The patient needs immediate hospitalisation, as heat
strokes could be fatal.
Acclimatisation
People at risk are those who have come from a cooler climate to a hot climate. You may have such a person(s)
visiting your family during the heat wave season. They should not move about in open field for a period of one week
till the body is acclimatized to heat and should drink plenty of water. Acclimatization is achieved by gradual exposure
to the hot environment during heat wave.
Additional Resources
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6/13/2018 Landslides - National Disaster Management Authority
Landslide
India has the highest mountain chain on earth, the Himalayas, which are formed due to collision of Indian and
Eurasian plate, the northward movement of the Indian plate towards China causes continuous stress on the rocks
rendering them friable, weak and prone to landslides and earthquakes. The slow motion of the Indian crust, about 5
cm/year accumulates stress to which natural disasters are attributed. Some landslides make unique, and unparalleled
catastrophes. Landslides and avalanches are among the major hydro-geological hazards that affect large parts of
India besides the Himalayas, the Northeastern hill ranges, the Western Ghats, the Nilgiris, the Eastern Ghats and the
Vindhyans, in that order, covering about 15 % of the landmass. The Himalayas alone count for landslides of every
fame, name and description- big and small, quick and creeping, ancient and new. The Northeastern region is badly
affected by landslide problems of a bewildering variety. Landslides in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal as also
those in Sikkim, Mizoram, Tripura, Meghalaya, Assam, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh pose chronic problems,
causing recurring economic losses worth billions of rupees. A different variety of landslides, characterized by a
lateritic cap, pose constant threat to the Western Ghats in the South, along the steep slopes overlooking the Konkan
coast besides Nilgiris, which is highly landslide prone.
Some spectacular events of tragedies are reported as Varnavat landslide, Uttarkashi District, Malpha landslide
Pithoragarh district, Okhimath landslide in Chamoli district, UK and Paglajhora in Darjeeling district as well as Sikkim,
Aizawl sports complex, Mizoram.These are some of the more recent examples of landslides. The problem therefore
needs to be tackled for mitigation and management for which hazard zones have to be identified and specific slides to
be stabilized and managed in addition to monitoring and early warning systems to
be placed at selected sites. The Photograph of Okhimath landslide which formed a lake in Madhyamaheshwerganga,
Rudraprayag district.
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6/13/2018 Landslides - National Disaster Management Authority
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We cannot stop disaster but minimize its impact by preparing ourselves better for landslides. The Government of
India has made plans to identify the areas where landslides occur repeatedly. This is achieved through Landslide
Hazard Zonation (LHZ) maps which shows or demarcates areas by different colors. NDMA has published a guideline
on Landslides and Snow Avalanches as given on its website. Following are the precautionary measures for
landslides in the form of do's and dont's as given below:
Do's
Prepare tour to hilly region according to information given by weather department or news channel.
Move away from landslide path or downstream valleys quickly without wasting time.
Keep drains clean,
Inspect drains for - litter, leaves, plastic bags, rubble etc.
Keep the weep holes open.
Grow more trees that can hold the soil through roots,
Identify areas of rock fall and subsidence of buildings, cracks that indicate landslides and move to safer areas.
Even muddy river waters indicate landslides upstream.
Notice such signals and contact the nearest Tehsil or District Head Quarters.
Ensure that toe of slope is not cut, remains protected, don't uproot trees unless re-vegetation is planned.
Listen for unusual sounds such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together.
Stay alert, awake and active (3A's) during the impact or probability of impact.
Locate and go to shelters,
Try to stay with your family and companions.
Check for injured and trapped persons.
Mark path of tracking so that you can't be lost in middle of the forest.
Know how to give signs or how to communicate during emergency time to flying helicopters and rescue team.
Don'ts
Try to avoid construction and staying in vulnerable areas.

Do not panic and loose energy by crying.
Do not touch or walk over loose material and electrical wiring or pole.
Do not built houses near steep slopes and near drainage path.
Do not drink contaminated water directly from rivers, springs, wells but rain water if collected directly without is fine.
Do not move an injured person without rendering first aid unless the casualty is in immediate danger.
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6/13/2018 Information - National Disaster Management Authority
Tsunami
The Earth's lithosphere is broken up into a bunch of discrete pieces,
called plates that move around the surface of the planet. There are seven
or eight major plates (depending on how they are defined) and many
minor plates. This motion is driven by the flow of the mantle rock
beneath the plates and by the forces plates exert at their boundaries
where they touch each other. Earthquakes happen when plates move
with respect to each other because of the friction and stress at the edges
of plates prevents them from slipping smoothly at their
boundaries. When one plate is forced to dive beneath another plate,
there is no way to do it except with some component of vertical
motion creating tsunami (please see figure) .
The tsunami that occurred during 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake of Mw 9.3 was primarily caused by
vertical displacement of the seafloor, in response to slip on the inter-plate thrust fault. The earthquake and
resulting tsunami in the Indian Ocean affected many countries in Southeast Asia and beyond,
including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, the Maldives, Somalia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Seychelles and
others. Many other countries, especially Australia and those in Europe incurred casualties due to the tsunami,
because they had large numbers of citizens traveling in the region on holiday. This tsunami-genic earthquake was
one of the ten worst earthquakes in recorded history, as well as the single worst tsunami in history. Indonesia was
the worst affected country. Beyond the heavy toll on human lives, the Indian Ocean earthquake has caused an
enormous environmental impact that will affect the region for many years to come. The disaster also caused a
substantial geo-physical impact in Indian Ocean. The disaster invited attention of affected countries for setting up
effective tsunami early warning system and institutional mechanism for handling disasters.
The Government of India has put in place an Early Warning System for mitigation of such oceanogenic disasters
under the control of Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad. A state-of-
the-art early warning centre was established with the necessary computational and communication infrastructure
that enables reception of real-time data from sensors, analysis of the data, generation and dissemination of
tsunami advisories following a standard operating procedure. Seismic and sea-level data are continuously
monitored in the Early Warning Centre using custom-built software application that generates alarms/alerts in the
warning centre whenever a pre-set threshold is crossed. Tsunami warnings/watches are then generated based on
pre-set decision support rules and disseminated to the concerned authorities for action, as per pre-decided
standard operating procedure. The efficiency of this end-to-end system was proved during the large under-sea
earthquake of 8.4 M that occurred on September 12, 2007 in the Indian Ocean.
The 2004 tsunami also prompted NDMA to formulate Tsunami Risk Management Guidelines to outline
inter-agency roles and responsibilities, tsunami risk preparedness, mitigation and response.
The Guidelines recommends practical and effective ways for awareness generation, capacity building, education,
training and research & development for better tsunami risk management. The Guidelines explore options for
effective dissemination of tsunami alert and warning messages generated by INCOIS to the concerned agencies
and coastal vulnerable communities exposed to tsunamis in a coordinated manner.
Structural Mitigation measures, as envisaged in the Guidelines, gives a brief guidance on design and construction
of new structures as well as strategies for protecting lifeline and priority structures from Tsunamis along the
seafront. The Guidelines urge BIS to roll out the pending construction standards entitled ‘Criteria for Tsunami-
Resistant Design of Structures’. It further recommends a robust techno-legal regime through efficient land use
practices, bioshields, shelter belt plantation and mangrove regeneration with community involvement. A strong
mechanism has been recommended for effective emergency response by involving local police network, civil
defence volunteers wherever available, home guards, State Disaster Response Forces and National Disaster
Response Force. Further, the Guidelines explore the provisions of Disaster Management Act 2005 to mainstream
concern of Tsunami risk management in disaster management plans of various levels.
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You should find out if your home, school, workplace, or other frequently visited locations are in tsunami hazard
areas along sea-shore.
Know the height of your street above sea level and the distance of your street from the coast or other high-risk
waters. (Local administration may put sign boards).
Plan evacuation routes from your home, school, workplace, or any other place you could be where tsunamis
present a risk.
If your children's school is in an identified inundation zone, find out what the school evacuation plan is.
Practice your evacuation routes.
Use a Weather Radio or stay tuned to a local radio or television station to keep informed of local watches and
warnings.
Talk to your insurance agent.Homeowners' policies may not cover flooding from a tsunami. Ask the Insurance
Agent about the benefits from Multi-Hazard Insurance Schemes.
Discuss tsunamis with your family.Everyone should know what to do in a tsunami situation. Discussing tsunamis
ahead of time will help reduce fear and save precious time in an emergency. Review flood safety and preparedness
measures with your family.
If you are in an area at risk from tsunamis
You should find out if your home, school, workplace, or other frequently visited locations are in tsunami hazard
areas.
Know the height of your street above sea level and the distance of your street from the coast or other high-risk
waters. (Local administration may put sign boards). Also find out the height above sea level and the distance from
the coast of outbuildings that house animals, as well as pastures or corrals.
Plan evacuation routes from your home, school, workplace, or any other place you could be where tsunamis
present a risk. If possible, pick areas (30 meters) above sea level or go as far as 3 kilometres inland, away from the
coastline. If you cannot get this high or far, go as high or far as you can. Every meter inland or upward may make a
difference. You should be able to reach your safe location on foot within 15 minutes. After a disaster, roads may
become blocked or unusable. Be prepared to evacuate by foot if necessary. Footpaths normally lead uphill and
inland, while many roads parallel coastlines. Follow posted tsunami evacuation routes; these will lead to safety.
Local emergency management officials can advise you on the best route to safety and likely shelter locations.
If your children's school is in an identified inundation zone, find out what the school evacuation plan is. Find out if
the plan requires you to pick your children up from school or from another location. Telephone lines during a
tsunami watch or warning may be overloaded and routes to and from schools may be jammed.
Practice your evacuation routes. Familiarity may save your life. Be able to follow your escape route at night and
during inclement weather. Practicing your plan makes the appropriate response more of a reaction, requiring less
thinking during an actual emergency situation.
Use a Weather Radio or stay tuned to a local radio or television station to keep informed of local watches and
warnings.
Talk to your insurance agent.Homeowners' policies may not cover flooding from a tsunami. Ask the Insurance
Agent about the benefits from Multi-Hazard Insurance Schemes.
Discuss tsunamis with your family. Everyone should know what to do in a tsunami situation. Discussing tsunamis
ahead of time will help reduce fear and save precious time in an emergency. Review flood safety and preparedness
measures with your family.
If you are visiting an area at risk from tsunamis
Check with the hotel or campground operators for tsunami evacuation information and find out what the warning
system is for tsunamis. It is important to know designated escape routes before a warning is issued.
One of the early warning signals of a tsunami is that the sea water recedes several metres, exposing fish on
shallow waters or on the beaches. If you see the sea water receding, you must immediately leave the beach and go
to higher ground far away from the beach.
Protect Your Property
You should avoid building or living in buildings within 200 meters of the high tide coastline.
These areas are more likely to experience damage from tsunamis, strong winds, or coastal storms.
Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a tsunami.
A list will help you remember anything that can be swept away by tsunami water.
Elevate coastal homes.
Most tsunami waves are less than 3 meters. Elevating your house will help reduce damage to your property from
most tsunamis.
Take precautions to prevent flooding.
Have an engineer check your home and advise about ways to make it more resistant to tsunami water.
There may be ways to divert waves away from your property. Improperly built walls could make your situation
worse. Consult with a professional for advice.
Ensure that any outbuildings, pastures, or corrals are protected in the same way as your home. When installing or
changing fence lines, consider placing them in such a way that your animals are able to move to higher ground in
the event of a tsunami.
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What to Do if You Feel a Strong Coastal Earthquake
If you feel an earthquake that lasts 20 seconds or longer when you are in a coastal area, you should:
Drop, cover, and hold on. You should first protect yourself from the earthquake damages.
When the shaking stops.
Gather members of your household and move quickly to higher ground away from the coast. A tsunami may be
coming within minutes.
Avoid downed power lines and stay away from damaged buildings and bridges from which Heavy objects might fall
during an aftershock.
If you are on land
Be aware of tsunami facts. This knowledge could save your life! Share this knowledge with your relatives and
friends. It could save their lives!
If you are in school and you hear there is a tsunami warning,
You should follow the advice of teachers and other school personnel.
If you are at home and hear there is a tsunami warning.
You should make sure your entire family is aware of the warning. Your family should evacuate your house if you live
in a tsunami evacuation zone. Move in an orderly, calm and safe manner to the evacuation site or to any safe place
outside your evacuation zone. Follow the advice of local emergency and law enforcement authorities.
If you are at the beach or near the ocean and you feel the earth shake,
Move immediately to higher ground, DO NOT wait for a tsunami warning to be announced. Stay away from rivers
and streams that lead to the ocean as you would stay away from the beach and ocean if there is a tsunami. A
regional tsunami from a local earthquake could strike some areas before a tsunami warning could be announced.
Tsunamis generated in distant locations will generally give people enough time to move to higher ground. For
locally-generated tsunamis, where you might feel the ground shake, you may only have a few minutes to move to
higher ground.
High, multi-storied, reinforced concrete hotels are located in many low-lying coastal areas. The upper floors of
these hotels can provide a safe place to find refuge should there be a tsunami warning and you cannot move
quickly inland to higher ground.
Homes and small buildings located in low-lying coastal areas are not designed to withstand tsunami impacts. Do
not stay in these structures should there be a tsunami warning.
Offshore reefs and shallow areas may help break the force of tsunami waves, but large and dangerous wave can
still be a threat to coastal residents in these areas.
Staying away from all low-lying areas is the safest advice when there is a tsunami warning.
If you are on a boat,
Since tsunami wave activity is imperceptible in the open ocean, do not return to port if you are at sea and a tsunami
warning has been issued for your area. Tsunamis can cause rapid changes in water level and unpredictable
dangerous currents in harbours and ports.
If there is time to move your boat or ship from port to deep water (after a tsunami warning has been issued), you
should weigh the following considerations:
Most large harbours and ports are under the control of a harbor authority and/or a vessel traffic system. These
authorities direct operations during periods of increased readiness (should a tsunami be expected), including the
forced movement of vessels if deemed necessary. Keep in contact with the authorities should a forced movement
of vessel be directed.
Smaller ports may not be under the control of a harbor authority. If you are aware there is a tsunami warning and
you have time to move your vessel to deep water, then you may want to do so in an orderly manner, in
consideration of other vessels.
Owners of small boats may find it safest to leave their boat at the pier and physically move to higher ground,
particularly in the event of a locally-generated tsunami.
Concurrent severe weather conditions (rough seas outside of safe harbor) could present a greater hazardous
situation to small boats, so physically moving yourself to higher ground may be the only option.
Damaging wave activity and unpredictable currents can affect harbours for a period of time following the initial
tsunami impact on the coast. Contact the harbor authority before returning to port making sure to verify that
conditions in the harbor are safe for navigation and berthing.
What to do after a Tsunami
You should continue using a Weather Radio or staying tuned to a Coast Guard emergency frequency station or a
local radio or television station for updated emergency information.
The Tsunami may have damaged roads, bridges, or other places that may be unsafe.
Check yourself for injuries and get first aid if necessary before helping injured or trapped persons.
If someone needs to be rescued, call professionals with the right equipment to help.
Help people who require special assistance— Infants, elderly people, those without transportation, large families
who may need additional help in an emergency situation, people with disabilities, and the people who care for
them.
Avoid disaster areas.
Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations and put you at further risk from the residual
effects of floods, such as contaminated water, crumbled roads, landslides, mudflows, and other hazards.
Use the telephone only for emergency calls.Telephone lines are frequently overwhelmed in disaster situations.
They need to be clear for emergency calls to get through.
Stay out of a building if water remains around it.Tsunami water, like floodwater, can undermine foundations, causing
buildings to sink, floors to crack, or walls to collapse.
When re-entering buildings or homes, use extreme caution.Tsunami-driven floodwater may have damaged
buildings where you least expect it. Carefully watch every step you take.
Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy shoes.The most common injury following a disaster is cut feet.
Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings.Battery-powered lighting is the safest and
easiest to use, and it does not present a fire hazard for the user, occupants, or building. DO NOT USE CANDLES.
Examine walls, floors, doors, staircases, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage. Cracks and damage to a foundation can render a building
uninhabitable.
Look for fire hazards.Under the earthquake action there may be broken or leaking gas lines, and under the tsunami
flooded electrical circuits, or submerged furnaces or electrical appliances. Flammable or explosive materials may
have come from upstream. Fire is the most frequent hazard following floods.
Check for gas leaks.If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and get everyone outside
quickly. Turn off the gas using the outside main valve if you can, and call the gas company from a neighbour’s
home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.
Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell burning insulation,
turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or
circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice. Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being
returned to service.
Check for damage to sewage and water lines. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged under the quake, avoid
using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water
from the tap. You can obtain safe water from undamaged water heaters or by melting ice cubes that were made
before the tsunami hit. Turn off the main water valve before draining water from these sources. Use tap water only
if local health officials advise it is safe.
Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into buildings with the water. Use a
stick to poke through debris. Tsunami floodwater flushes snakes and animals out of their homes.
Watch for loose plaster, drywall, and ceilings that could fall.
Take pictures of the damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance claims. Open the windows and
doors to help dry the building.
Shovel mud before it solidifies.
Check food supplies.
Any food that has come in contact with floodwater may be contaminated and should be thrown out.
Expect aftershocks. If the earthquake is of large magnitude (magnitude 8 to 9+ on the Richter scale) and located
nearby, some aftershocks could be as large as magnitude 7+ and capable of generating another tsunami. The
number of aftershocks will decrease over the course of several days, weeks, or months depending on how large
the main shock was.
Watch your animals closely. Keep all your animals under your direct control. Hazardous materials abound in
flooded areas. Your pets may be able to escape from your home or through a broken fence. Pets may become
disoriented, particularly because flooding usually affects scent markers that normally allow them to find their
homes. The behaviour of pets may change dramatically after any disruption, becoming aggressive or defensive, so
be aware of their well-being and take measures to protect them from hazards, including displaced wild animals, and
to ensure the safety of other people and animals.
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6/13/2018 Urban Floods - National Disaster Management Authority
Urban Floods
Urban flooding is significantly different from rural flooding as urbanization leads to developed catchments, which
increases the flood peaks from 1.8 to 8 times and flood volumes by up to 6 times. Consequently, flooding occurs very
quickly due to faster flow times (in a matter of minutes). Urban areas are densely populated and people living in
vulnerable areas suffer due to flooding, sometimes resulting in loss of life. It is not only the event of flooding but the
secondary effect of exposure to infection also has its toll in terms of human suffering, loss of livelihood and, in
extreme cases, loss of life.
Urban areas are also centres of economic activities with vital infrastructure which needs to be protected 24x7. In most
of the cities, damage to vital infrastructure has a bearing not only for the state and the country but it could even have
global implications. Major cities in India have witnessed loss of life and property, disruption in transport and power and
incidence of epidemics. Therefore, management of urban flooding has to be accorded top priority.
Increasing trend of urban flooding is a universal phenomenon and poses a great challenge to urban planners the
world over. Problems associated with urban floods range from relatively localized incidents to major incidents,
resulting in cities being inundated from hours to several days. Therefore, the impact can also be widespread,
including temporary relocation of people, damage to civic amenities, deterioration of water quality and risk of
epidemics.
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Before floods
1. Do not litter waste, plastic bags, plastic bottles in drains

2. Try to be at home if high tide and heavy rains occur simultaneously
3. Listen to weather forecast at All India Radio, Doordarshan. Also, messages by Municipal bodies from time to
time and act accordingly.
4. Evacuate low lying areas and shift to safer places.
5. Make sure that each person has lantern, torch, some edibles, drinking water, dry clothes and necessary
documents while evacuating or shifting.
6. Make sure that each family member has identity card.
7. Put all valuables at a higher place in the house.
In the Flood Situation
1. Obey orders by government and shift to a safer place.

2. Be at safe place and they try to collect correct information.
3. Switch of electrical supply and don’t touch open wires.
4. Don’t get carried away by rumors and don not spread rumors.
DO's
1. Switch off electrical and gas appliances, and turn off services off at the mains.
2. Carry your emergency kit and let your friends and family know where you are going.
3. Avoid contact with flood water it may be contaminated with sewage,oil,chemicals or other substances.
4. If you have to walk in standing water, use a pole or stick to ensure that you do not step into deep water, open
manholes or ditches.
5. Stay away from power lines electrical current can travel through water, Report power lines that are down to
the power company.
6. Look before you step-after a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris, which may include broken
bottles, sharp objects, nails etc.Floors and stairs covered with mud and debris can be slippery.
7. Listen to the radio or television for updates and information.
8. If the ceiling is wet shut off electricity. Place a bucket underneath the spot and poke a small hole into the
ceiling to relieve the pressure.
9. Use buckets,clean towels and mops to remove as much of the water from the afflicted rooms as possible.
10. Place sheets of aluminium foil between furniture wet carpet.
Don't's
1. Don't walk through flowing water - currents can be deceptive, and shallow, fast moving water can knock you
off your feet.
2. Don't swim through fast flowing water - you may get swept away or struck by an object in the water.
3. Don't drive through a flooded area - You may not be able to see abrupt drop - offs and only half a meter of
flood water can carry a car away. Driving through flood water can also cause additional damage to nearby
property.
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4. Don't eat any food that has come into contact with flood water.
5. Don't reconnect your power supply until a qualified engineer has checked it. Be alert for gas leaks - do not
smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames.
6. Don't scrub or brush mud and other deposits from materials, This may cause further damage.
7. Never turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Stay away from ceilings those are sagging.
8. Never use TVs, VCRS, CRT terminals or other electrical equipment while standing on wet floors, especially
concrete.
9. Don't attempt to remove standing water using your vacuum cleaner.
10. Don't remove standing water in a basement too fast. If the pressure is relieved too quickly it may put undue
stress on the walls.
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6/13/2018 Nuclear - National Disaster Management Authority
Nuclear and Radiological Emergency
The growth in the application of nuclear science and technology in the fields of power generation, medicine, industry,
agriculture, research and defence has led to an increase in the risk of occurrence of Nuclear and Radiological
emergencies.
India has traditionally been vulnerable to natural disasters on account of its unique geo climatic conditions and it has,
of late, like all other countries in the world, become equally vulnerable to various man-made disasters.
Nuclear and Radiological Emergency can arise in a nuclear facility at plant level leading to plant/ site or offsite
emergency depending upon the extent of its impact on the surroundings. It can also take place while using radiation
sources, either at Hospitals, Industries, Agriculture or Research Institutions due to loss or misplacement or due to
faulty handling. The other events that can lead to Nuclear or Radiological Emergency in the public domain, include,
accident of a vehicle carrying radioactive/nuclear material, due of an orphan source i.e. the source which is not under
regulatory control or due to usage of radiation source/radioactive material in Malevolant activities.
Any radiation incident resulting in or having a potential to result in exposure and/or contamination of the workers or
the public in excess of the respective permissible limits can lead to a nuclear/radiological emergency.
Sad memories of the use of nuclear weapons dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the wide publicity given to
the reactor accidents at Three Mile Island (TMI) in USA and Chernobyl in erstwhile USSR, have strongly influenced
the public perception of any nuclear or radiological emergency to be most often linked, erroneously though, to only
these events. However, one must be prepared to face nuclear/radiological emergencies of lower magnitudes and
ensure that the impact of such an emergency (which,for a given magnitude, is likely to be much greater today
because of higher population densities coupled with an enhanced urban infrastructure due to economic prosperity) is
always kept under control. It may be noted that better infrastructure can be helpful during such incidences in terms of
enhance communication, transport and medical support.
For improving the quality of life in society, India has embarked upon a large programme of using nuclear energy for
generation of electricity. As on date, India has 20 power reactors and three research reactors in operation along with
five power reactors under construction. It is also planned to explore setting up Thorium based reactors to meet its
ever increasing energy needs. The country is also at the verge of making operational the first 500MW prototype Fast
Breeder Reactor (PFBR) after a prolonged experience of operation of FBTR (Fast Breeder Test Reactor). Further, the
country utilises adioisotopes in a variety of applications in the non-power sector, viz., in the field of industry,
agriculture, medicine, research, etc. Due to the inherent safety culture, the best safety practices and standards
followed in these applications and effective regulation by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, the radiation dose to
which the persons working in nuclear/radiation facilities are exposed to, is well within the permissible limits and the
risk of its impact on the public domain is very low.
However, nuclear emergencies can still arise due to factors beyond the control of the operating agencies; e.g., human
error, system failure, sabotage, earthquake, cyclone, flood, etc. Such failures, even though of very low probability,
may lead to an on-site or off-site emergency. To combat this, a number of system upgrades have been planned to
mitigate/prevent such emergencies. However, proper emergency preparedness plans must be in place so that there
is minimum avoidable loss of life, livelihood, property and impact on the environment.
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6/13/2018 Do's & Dont's - National Disaster Management Authority
DO's
1. Go indoors. Stay inside.

2. Switch on the radio/television and look out for public announcements from your local authority.
3. Close doors/windows.
4. Cover all food, water and consume only such covered items.
5. If in the open, cover your face and body with a wet handkerchief, towel, dhoti or sari. Return home,
change/remove clothes. Have a complete wash and use fresh clothing.
6. Extend full cooperation to local authorities and obey their instructions completely -- be it for taking
medication, evacuation, etc.
7. You must be aware of nuclear radiation hazard. Discuss on Nuclear radiation safety among children and
family members, to reduce their fear of radiation.
Dont's
1. Do not panic.
2. Do not believe in rumours passed on by word of mouth from one person to another.
3. Do not stay outside/or go outside.
4. As far as possible, AVOID water from open wells/ponds; exposed crops and vegetables; food, water or milk
from outside.
5. Do not disobey any instruction of the district or civil defence authorities who would be doing their best to
ensure the safety of you, your family and your property.
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Chemical Disaster
Chemical, being at the core of modern industrial systems, has attained a very serious concern for disaster
management within government, private sector and community at large. Chemical disasters may be traumatic in their
impacts on human beings and have resulted in the casualties and also damages nature and property. The elements
which are at highest risks due to chemical disaster primarily include the industrial plant, its employees & workers,
hazardous chemicals vehicles, the residents of nearby settlements, adjacent buildings, occupants and surrounding
community. Chemical disasters may arise in number of ways, such as:-
1. Process and safety systems failures

-Human errors
-Technical errors
-Management errors
2. Induced effect of natural calamities

3. Accidents during the transportation
4. Hazardous waste processing/ disposal
5. Terrorist attack/ unrest leading to sabotage
Status of Chemical Disaster Risk in India

India has witnessed the world’s worst chemical (industrial) disaster “Bhopal Gas Tragedy” in the year 1984. The
Bhopal Gas tragedy was most devastating chemical accident in history, where over thousands of people died due to
accidental release of toxic gas Methyl Iso Cyanate (MIC).
Such accidents are significant in terms of injuries, pain, suffering, loss of lives, damage to property and environment.
India continued to witness a series of chemical accidents even after Bhopal had demonstrated the vulnerability of the
country. Only in last decade, 130 significant chemical accidents reported in India, which resulted into 259 deaths and
563 number of major injured.
There are about 1861 Major Accident Hazard (MAH) units, spread across 301 districts and 25 states & 3 Union
Territories, in all zones of country. Besides, there are thousands of registered and hazardous factories (below MAH
criteria) and un-organized sectors dealing with numerous range of hazardous material posing serious and complex
levels of disaster risks.
Safety initiatives taken in India to address chemical risk
The comprehensive legal/ institutional framework exists in our country. A number of regulations covering the safety in
transportation, liability, insurance and compensations have been enacted.
Following are the relevant provisions on chemical disaster management, prevailing in country:-
1. Explosives Act 1884 - Petroleum Act 1934

2. Factories Act 1948 - Insecticides Act 1968
3. Environment Protection Act 1986 - Motor Vehicles Act 1988
4. Public Liability Insurance Act 1991 - Disaster Management Act 2005
Government of India has further reinforced the legal framework on chemical safety and management of chemical
accidents by enacting new rules such as MSIHC Rules, EPPR Rules, SMPV Rules, CMV Rules, Gas Cylinder Rules,
Hazardous Waste Rules, Dock Workers Rules and by way of amendments to them.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of India had come out with very specific guidelines on
Chemical Disaster Management. The guidelines have been prepared to provide the directions to ministries,
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departments and state authorities for the preparation of their detailed disaster management plans. These guidelines
call for a proactive, participatory, multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral approach at various levels for chemical disaster
preparedness and response. Further, NDMA has provided specific inputs to the GOM for avoidance of future
chemical disasters in the country, along with suggested amendments on the existing framework. NDMA is also
working on revamping of CIFs ( Chief Inspectorate of Factories) to strengthen chemical safety in India. In addition,
the National Action Plan on Chemical Industrial Disaster Management (NAP-CIDM), has been finalized which will act
as the roadmap for chemical disaster management in India.
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Precautions to be taken during and after the Chemical (Industrial) Accidents
1. Do not panic, evacuate calmly and quickly perpendicular to wind direction through the designated escape
route
2. Keep a wet handkerchief or piece of cloth/ sari on face during evacuation
3. Keep the sick, elderly, weak, handicapped and other people who are unable to evacuate inside house and
close all the doors and windows tightly.
4. Do not consume the uncovered food/ water etc open to the air, drink only from bottle
5. Change into fresh clothing after reaching safe place/ shelter, and wish hands properly
6. Inform Fire & Emergency Services, Police and medical services from safe location by calling 101, 100 and
108 respectively.
7. Listen to PA (Public Addressal) System of the plant/ factory, local radio/ TV channels for advice from district
administration/fire/health/police and other concerned authorities
8. Provide correct and accurate information to government official.
9. Inform others on occurrence of event at public gathering places (like school, shopping centre, theatre etc.).
10. Don’t pay attention to the rumours and don’t spread rumours.
General Precautions During Normal Time
1. Do not smoke, lit fire or spark in the identified hazardous area

2. Sensitize the community living near the industrial units and they should be more vigilant about the nature of
industrial units and associated risks.
3. Keep the contact numbers of nearest hazardous industry, fire station, police station, control room, health
services and district control room, for emergency use.
4. Avoid housing near the industries producing or processing the hazardous chemicals, if possible.
5. Participate in all the capacity building programmes organized by the government/ voluntary organizations /
industrial units.
6. Take part in preparing disaster management plan for the community and identify safe shelter along with safe
and easy access routes.
7. Prepare a family disaster management plan and explain it to all the family members.
8. Make the family/ neighbours aware of the basic characteristics of various poisonous/ hazardous chemicals
and the first aid required to treat them.
9. Adequate number of personal protective equipments needs to be made available, to deal with emergency
situation.
10. Prepare an emergency kit of items and essentials in the house, including medicines, documents and
valuables.
https://ndma.gov.in/index.php/en/chemical-do-s-dont-s 1/1
Biological disasters are causative of process or phenomenon of organic origin or conveyed by biological vectors,
including exposure to pathogenic micro-organisms, toxins and bioactive substances that may cause loss of life, injury,
illness or other health impacts, property damage, loss of livelihoods and services, social and economic disruption, or
environmental damage. Examples of biological disasters include outbreaks of epidemic diseases, plant or animal
contagion, insect or other animal plagues and infestation. Biological disasters may be in the form of:-
Epidemic affecting a disproportionately large number of individuals within a population, community, or region at
the same time, examples being Cholera, Plague, Japanese Encephalitis (JE)/Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES);
or,
Pandemic is an epidemic that spreads across a large region, that is, a continent, or even worldwide of existing,
emerging or reemerging diseases and pestilences, example being Influenza H1N1 (Swine Flu).
Disclaimer Terms of Use Site Map Po
https://ndma.gov.in/en/biological-information.html 1/1
BEFORE THE DISASTER

A. Plan for Family Biological Disaster Plan.
B. Preparation by ensuring Prevention measures:-
(a) Personal cleanliness - daily bath, don’t grow long nails and wear clean clothes.
(b) Hand Hygiene (Wash hands with soap and water before preparing food or eating, after passing
stools, coughing or sneezing). The steps of hand washing are:-
(i) Step 1 : Wash palms and fingers
(i) Step 2 : Wash back of hands.
(iii) Step 3 :Wash fingers and knuckles
(iv) Step 4 : Wash thumbs
(v) Step 5 : Wash fingertips
https://ndma.gov.in/index.php/en/biological-do-s-dont-s 1/4
(vi) Step 6 : Wash wrists
(c) Eat nutritious and balanced food.

(d) Immunisation state should be upto date.
(e) Prevent overcrowding.
(f) Good ventilation.
(g) Protect from hot and cold weather.
(h) Health Education.
(i) Surveillance.
C. Take a First Aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.
D. Subscribe to a Medical Insurance Plan.
3. DO’s & DON’TS
A. DIARRHOEAL GROUP OF DISEASES INCLUDING CHOLERA
Do’s
1. Hand Hygiene.
2. Encourage drinking of water from a safe source or water that has been disinfected (chlorinated). Add
bleaching powder in all community wells at regular intervals. Use water pumped out from India Mark
II hand pumps, if installed in the village/community.
3. Drink boiled potable water in an emergency that has been boiled for at least 15 minutes and
consumed it the same day.
4. Promote storage of water in narrow mouthed container.
5. Cook food thoroughly especially meat, poultry, eggs and seafood until it is steaming and eat it while
it is still hot.
6. Ensure cooked meat and poultry is safe and no part of the meat discoloured or foul smelling, or in
the case of egg, their shells are not cracked.
7. If food is not eaten immediately, reheat cooked until it is steaming hot prior to serving.
8. Keep food items covered.
9. Increase fluid intake as soon as diarrhoea starts by drinking ORS solution or home-made
preparation of Table Salt 5 grams (1 teaspoon) in and 20 grams (4 teaspoons) of Sugar dissolved in
1 litre of drinking water.
10. Encourage banana eating, which provides potassium.
11. Continue feeding children when they are sick and to continue breastfeeding if the child is being
breast fed.
12. Refer the diarrhoea case to the nearest health facility in case of the following : Child is irritable,
restless or lethargic or unconscious: eating or drinking poorly; child has marked thirst; child has
fever or blood in stool.
Don’ts
1. Do not drink water from unsafe sources.
2. Do not eat uncooked food unless it is peeled or shelled.
3. Do not leave cooked food at room temperature longer than 2 hours.
4. Do not consume cut fruits from vendors.
5. Do not defecate in open area.
6. Do not give access to rats and houseflies in your premises.

B. RESPIRATORY GROUP OF DISEASES LIKE TUBERCULOSIS, INFLUENZA, CHICKENPOX,
MENINGITIS
Do’s and Don’ts:
1. Avoid close contact with people who are having respiratory illness.
2. The sick person should stay at home, and avoid going into the community, school/office, public
places for at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved.
3. Sick persons at home should keep distance from others.
4. Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette:-
(a) Cover the nose/mouth with a handkerchief/ tissue paper when coughing or sneezing
which should be disposed off in dustbins;
(b) Perform hand hygiene (e.g., frequent hand washing with soap and water, alcohol-
based hand rub, or antiseptic hand wash) and thoroughly dried preferably using
disposable tissue/ paper/ towel after contact after having contact with respiratory
secretions and contaminated objects/materials.
5. Triple layer surgical Mask of standard and certified make should be worn by Suspected/
probable/confirmed cases of influenza or by the care provider in home care settings and
close family contacts of such cases undergoing home care.
6. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat
nutritious food.
7. Avoid smoking.
8. Persons who have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath should seek immediate medical
attention and report to the nearby hospital.
9. If sick persons must go into the community (e.g., to seek medical care), then they should
wear a face mask or use a handkerchief or tissues to cover any coughing and sneezing so as
to reduce the risk of spreading the infection in the community.
10. Immunization status should be upto date as per National Universal Immunisation Programme.
C. MOSQUITO BORNE DISEASES LIKE MALARIA, DENGUE, FILARIA, CHIKUNGUNYA
Do’s
1. Follow “sun-down sleeves-down” approach. Wear clothes that cover arms and legs.
2. Prevent water collections on ground and other places to prevent malaria breeding.
3. Empty water containers at least once a week.
4. Remove water from coolers from time to time.
5. Cover and seal any septic tanks.
6. Use Mosquito Nets preferably Insecticide Treated Bed Nets (ITBN).
7. Apply insect repellants while sleeping to keep away mosquitoes.
8. Seek medical advice in case of rashes, mental irritation or unconsciousness..
Don’ts
1. Do not encourage children to wear shorts and half sleeved clothing.
2. Do not allow water to stagnate.
3. Do not allow discarded items to accumulate such as tires, tubes, empty coconut shells, household
items and objects wherein water may collect.
4. Do not bathe in village ponds and allow cattle to take bath in the same pond.

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6/13/2018 Earthquakes - National Disaster Management Authority

The Earthquake Risk in India

What to Do Before an Earthquake

Awareness Generation Resources for Earthquake Diasaster Management

Have a disaster emergency kit ready

Battery operated torch with extra batteries

Help your community get ready

What to Do During an Earthquake

If trapped under debris

Do not light a match.

Disclaimer Terms of Use Site Map Polic

What to do before a flood

Listen to the radio or television for information.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should:

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

In India, cyclones are classified by:

Type of Disturbances Wind Speed in Km/h Wind Speed in Knots

Low Pressure Less than 31 Less than 17

Depression 31-49 17-27

Deep Depression 49-61 27-33

Cyclonic Storm 61-88 33-47

Severe Cyclonic Storm 88-117 47-63

Super Cyclone More than 221 More than 120

1 knot - 1.85 km per hour

Cyclone Category Wind Speed in Km/h Damage Capacity

05 250 and above Catastrophic

How Cyclones are formed

Formation and Initial Development Stage

Modification and Decay

Cyclone Prone Districts

Disclaimer Terms of Use Site Map Policie

Before the Cyclone season:

Immediately before the cyclone season

When the Cyclone starts

TIPS FOR TREATMENT OF A PERSON AFFECTED BY A SUNSTROKE:

Try to avoid construction and staying in vulnerable areas.

If you are in an area at risk from tsunamis

If you are visiting an area at risk from tsunamis

What to do after a Tsunami

Website maintained by Mphas

1. Do not litter waste, plastic bags, plastic bottles in drains

In the Flood Situation

1. Obey orders by government and shift to a safer place.

Nuclear and Radiological Emergency

1. Go indoors. Stay inside.

1. Process and safety systems failures

2. Induced effect of natural calamities

Status of Chemical Disaster Risk in India

1. Explosives Act 1884 - Petroleum Act 1934

Precautions to be taken during and after the Chemical (Industrial) Accidents

General Precautions During Normal Time

1. Do not smoke, lit fire or spark in the identified hazardous area

Disclaimer Terms of Use Site Map Po

BEFORE THE DISASTER

(i) Step 1 : Wash palms and fingers

(i) Step 2 : Wash back of hands.

(iii) Step 3 :Wash fingers and knuckles

(iv) Step 4 : Wash thumbs

(v) Step 5 : Wash fingertips

(vi) Step 6 : Wash wrists

(c) Eat nutritious and balanced food.

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