Creating the Scenario and Drafting Earthquake Hazard Reduction Initiatives

Abstract

An understanding of the potential damage probable earthquakes can cause is fundamental to determining the most appropriate types of measures or initiatives for reducing earthquake damage. It has been common practice for years for experts in emergency response, such as fire fighters, police, doctors, and others to participate in exercises whereby damage caused by earthquakes or other hazards is described in a compressed time period and the participants are required to make emergency response decisions. Such exercises, in effect, test the emergency response system and allow improvements to be made. These tests have proven to be very worthwhile.