Disaster Management – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Disaster Management

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5th

5th - Social Studies (SST)

Disaster Management

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Chapter: Disaster Management

Overview

This chapter introduces students to the concept of disasters, their types, and the importance of disaster management. It covers natural and man-made disasters, their causes, effects, and preventive measures. The chapter also emphasizes the role of individuals and communities in disaster preparedness and response.

Disaster: A sudden event that causes widespread damage, destruction, and distress, affecting people and the environment.

Types of Disasters

Disasters can be classified into two main categories:

  • Natural Disasters: Events caused by natural forces, such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, droughts, and landslides.
  • Man-made Disasters: Events caused by human activities, such as fires, industrial accidents, and pollution.

Causes and Effects of Disasters

Disasters can have severe impacts on life, property, and the environment. Some common causes and effects include:

  • Earthquakes: Caused by movements in the Earth's crust, leading to building collapses and loss of life.
  • Floods: Caused by heavy rainfall or river overflow, resulting in waterlogging and damage to crops.
  • Cyclones: Strong winds and heavy rains cause destruction to coastal areas.
  • Fires: Caused by negligence or accidents, leading to loss of property and lives.

Disaster Management

Disaster management involves steps to reduce the impact of disasters:

  1. Preparedness: Planning and training to respond effectively during a disaster.
  2. Response: Immediate actions taken during a disaster, such as evacuation and rescue operations.
  3. Recovery: Restoring normalcy after a disaster, including rebuilding and rehabilitation.
  4. Prevention: Measures to reduce the risk of disasters, such as planting trees to prevent soil erosion.

Disaster Management: The process of planning, organizing, and implementing measures to reduce the impact of disasters.

Role of Individuals and Communities

Everyone has a role in disaster management:

  • Follow safety guidelines during disasters.
  • Participate in disaster drills and awareness programs.
  • Help neighbors and community members during emergencies.
  • Support relief efforts by donating or volunteering.

Conclusion

Disaster management is essential to protect lives and property. By understanding disasters and taking preventive measures, we can minimize their impact and build safer communities.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What is a natural disaster?
Answer:

A natural disaster is a sudden and severe event caused by nature, such as earthquakes, floods, or cyclones, that can cause harm to people and property.

Question 2:
Name two man-made disasters.
Answer:

Two man-made disasters are industrial accidents (like chemical leaks) and forest fires caused by human activities.

Question 3:
What should you do during an earthquake if you are indoors?
Answer:

During an earthquake, if you are indoors:
1. Drop to the ground.
2. Cover your head and neck with your arms.
3. Hold on to a sturdy object until shaking stops.

Question 4:
Why is it important to have a disaster emergency kit?
Answer:

An disaster emergency kit is important because it contains essential supplies like food, water, and medicines to help you survive until help arrives after a disaster.

Question 5:
What is the full form of NDRF?
Answer:

The full form of NDRF is National Disaster Response Force, which helps in rescue operations during disasters.

Question 6:
Name one way to reduce the impact of floods.
Answer:

One way to reduce the impact of floods is by planting trees, as their roots help absorb excess water and prevent soil erosion.

Question 7:
What is the first step in disaster preparedness?
Answer:

The first step in disaster preparedness is creating awareness about potential disasters and safety measures among people.

Question 8:
How can you stay safe during a cyclone?
Answer:

To stay safe during a cyclone:
1. Stay indoors and away from windows.
2. Listen to weather updates.
3. Avoid going near coastal areas.

Question 9:
What is the role of a community in disaster management?
Answer:

The community plays a key role by working together to prepare for disasters, sharing resources, and helping each other during emergencies.

Question 10:
Name one government agency that helps during disasters in India.
Answer:

One government agency that helps during disasters in India is the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Question 11:
Why should you avoid using elevators during a fire?
Answer:

You should avoid using elevators during a fire because they may stop working due to power failure, trapping people inside.

Question 12:
What is the purpose of a mock drill in schools?
Answer:

A mock drill in schools helps students and teachers practice safety procedures, like evacuation, to stay prepared for real emergencies.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
What is a natural disaster? Give one example.
Answer:

A natural disaster is a sudden event caused by natural forces that leads to severe damage or loss of life.
Example: Earthquake (shaking of the ground due to movement in Earth's crust).

Question 2:
Name two man-made disasters and explain one briefly.
Answer:

Two man-made disasters are industrial accidents and nuclear explosions.
Industrial accidents occur due to chemical leaks or fires in factories, harming people and the environment.

Question 3:
What should you do during an earthquake if you are indoors?
Answer:
  • Drop to the ground and take cover under a sturdy table.
  • Hold on until the shaking stops.
  • Avoid standing near windows or heavy objects.
Question 4:
Why is it important to have a disaster emergency kit? List two items in it.
Answer:

An emergency kit helps during disasters by providing essential supplies.
Items: First aid box (for injuries) and torch (for light during power cuts).

Question 5:
What is the role of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)?
Answer:

The NDRF is a specialized force that conducts rescue operations during disasters like floods or earthquakes.
They provide medical aid, evacuate people, and distribute relief supplies.

Question 6:
How can deforestation lead to disasters?
Answer:

Deforestation removes trees that hold soil together, increasing risks like landslides and floods due to soil erosion.

Question 7:
What are early warning systems in disaster management?
Answer:

Early warning systems use technology (like weather forecasts) to alert people before disasters strike, helping them prepare or evacuate.
Example: Tsunami alerts via sirens or messages.

Question 8:
Explain one way to reduce fire hazards at home.
Answer:

Keep flammable items (like matches) away from children and store fire extinguishers in accessible places to prevent accidents.

Question 9:
What are early warning systems in disaster management? Give an example.
Answer:

Early warning systems alert people before a disaster strikes. Example: Tsunami alarms (detect ocean waves and warn coastal areas).

Question 10:
How can schools help in disaster preparedness?
Answer:

Schools can:

  • Conduct fire drills and earthquake drills.
  • Teach students safety measures like evacuation routes.

Question 11:
What is a natural disaster? Give two examples.
Answer:

A natural disaster is a sudden event caused by nature that causes severe damage to life and property.
Examples: Earthquakes, Floods.

Question 12:
Name two man-made disasters and explain how they occur.
Answer:

Man-made disasters are caused by human activities.
Examples: Industrial accidents (due to chemical leaks), Forest fires (often caused by careless human actions like burning trash).

Question 13:
What is the first thing you should do during an earthquake if you are indoors?
Answer:

During an earthquake, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table, and hold on until shaking stops. Avoid windows and heavy objects.

Question 14:
Why is it important to have a disaster emergency kit? List two items it should contain.
Answer:

An emergency kit helps during disasters when supplies are limited.
Items: First-aid box, Bottled water.

Question 15:
How can planting trees help in disaster management?
Answer:

Trees prevent soil erosion during floods and act as windbreakers during cyclones. They also reduce air pollution and landslides.

Question 16:
What role does the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) play?
Answer:

The NDRF rescues people during disasters like floods or earthquakes. They provide medical aid, food, and help rebuild affected areas.

Question 17:
Explain the term early warning system with an example.
Answer:

An early warning system alerts people before a disaster strikes. Example: Tsunami alerts via sirens or mobile messages to evacuate coastal areas.

Question 18:
What safety measures should be taken during a thunderstorm?
Answer:

During a thunderstorm:
Avoid open fields, Stay indoors, Unplug electrical devices to prevent damage from lightning.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
Explain the term disaster management and its importance.
Answer:

Disaster management refers to the process of preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters to minimize their impact.

Its importance includes:

  • Saving lives by timely evacuation and medical aid.
  • Reducing damage to property through early warnings and planning.
  • Helping communities recover faster after a disaster.

Question 2:
What are the three main steps in disaster management? Briefly describe each.
Answer:

The three main steps are:

1. Preparedness - Planning and training to handle disasters, like conducting drills.
2. Response - Immediate actions during a disaster, such as rescue operations.
3. Recovery - Rebuilding and restoring normalcy after the disaster.

Question 3:
How can schools help in spreading awareness about disaster management?
Answer:

Schools can:

  • Conduct safety drills (like earthquake or fire drills) to teach students how to react.
  • Organize workshops with experts to explain disaster risks and precautions.
  • Display posters and charts about safety measures in classrooms.

Question 4:
Why is it important to have an emergency kit during disasters? List three items it should contain.
Answer:

An emergency kit ensures survival when help is delayed. It should contain:

  • First-aid supplies - Bandages, antiseptics, and medicines.
  • Non-perishable food - Like biscuits or canned food.
  • Flashlight and batteries - For light during power outages.

Question 5:
What role do local communities play in disaster management?
Answer:

Local communities help by:

  • Sharing early warnings and alerts with neighbors.
  • Assisting in rescue operations and providing shelter to affected people.
  • Participating in rebuilding efforts after the disaster.

Question 6:
Explain the term disaster management in simple words.
Answer:

Disaster management refers to the process of preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters to minimize their impact.

It involves:

  • Preparedness - Training and planning before a disaster strikes.
  • Response - Immediate actions like rescue operations during a disaster.
  • Recovery - Rebuilding and restoring affected areas after the disaster.

Question 7:
Why is it important to have an emergency kit during disasters?
Answer:

An emergency kit is essential because it contains basic supplies needed for survival during a disaster when help may not be immediately available.

Key items include:

  • First aid supplies - For treating injuries.
  • Food and water - To sustain until help arrives.
  • Flashlight and batteries - For visibility during power outages.
Having these items ready saves time and lives.

Question 8:
What are the do's and don'ts during an earthquake?
Answer:

Do's:

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On - Protect yourself under a sturdy table.
  • Stay indoors - Avoid going outside to prevent injury from falling objects.
Don'ts:
  • Do not use elevators - They may stop working during shaking.
  • Do not panic - Stay calm to think clearly and act safely.

Question 9:
How can communities help in disaster preparedness?
Answer:

Communities play a crucial role in disaster preparedness by:

  • Conducting drills - Practicing evacuation plans for disasters like fires or earthquakes.
  • Creating awareness - Educating members about safety measures and emergency contacts.
  • Setting up warning systems - Using sirens or alerts to inform people about incoming disasters.
Working together ensures everyone stays safe.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain the importance of disaster preparedness and describe any three steps that can be taken to prepare for a natural disaster like an earthquake.
Answer:

Disaster preparedness is crucial because it helps minimize damage, save lives, and ensure quick recovery after a disaster. Being prepared reduces panic and ensures people know what to do during emergencies.

Here are three steps to prepare for an earthquake:

  • Create an emergency kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and important documents.
  • Practice safety drills: Schools and families should regularly practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On to stay safe during earthquakes.
  • Secure heavy objects: Fasten furniture, shelves, and heavy items to walls to prevent them from falling during tremors.

Preparedness also involves learning about safe spots in homes and schools, such as under sturdy tables, to protect oneself during shaking.

Question 2:
Describe the role of the community in disaster management and explain how teamwork can help during a flood situation.
Answer:

The community plays a vital role in disaster management by working together to prevent, respond to, and recover from disasters. A united community can share resources, provide support, and ensure everyone's safety.

During a flood, teamwork helps in the following ways:

  • Early warning systems: Communities can set up alerts to inform everyone about rising water levels and evacuation plans.
  • Rescue operations: Neighbors can help evacuate vulnerable people, such as the elderly or children, to safer locations.
  • Resource sharing: People can distribute food, clean water, and medical supplies to those affected.

Additionally, communities can organize clean-up drives after floods to restore normalcy. Working together builds resilience and ensures faster recovery.

Question 3:
Explain the importance of disaster preparedness in schools and describe any three steps that students can take to stay safe during an earthquake.
Answer:

Disaster preparedness in schools is crucial because it helps protect students, teachers, and staff during emergencies. Being prepared reduces panic, ensures quick action, and minimizes injuries or damage. Schools are often crowded places, so having a plan saves lives.

During an earthquake, students can take the following steps to stay safe:

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on until the shaking stops.
  • Stay Indoors: Avoid running outside as falling debris can cause injuries. Move away from windows, shelves, or heavy objects that may fall.
  • Follow Evacuation Plans: After the shaking stops, calmly follow the school's evacuation route to a safe open area, avoiding damaged buildings.

Practicing earthquake drills regularly helps students remember these steps and act quickly during real emergencies.

Question 4:
Describe the role of community participation in disaster management and explain how it helps in reducing the impact of floods.
Answer:

Community participation plays a vital role in disaster management because local people understand their area's risks and needs better. Working together ensures faster response and recovery during disasters like floods.

Here’s how community participation helps reduce flood impact:

  • Early Warning Systems: Communities can set up alerts using local resources like loudspeakers or messaging groups to warn residents about rising water levels.
  • Flood Preparedness: People can work together to build barriers, clear drainage systems, and store essential supplies like food and medicines in advance.
  • Rescue and Relief: Trained volunteers can assist in evacuating vulnerable groups (children, elderly) and distributing aid quickly after floods.

When communities actively participate, they become more resilient, reducing damage and saving lives. Government and local leaders should encourage such teamwork through awareness programs and drills.

Question 5:
Describe the role of community participation in disaster management and explain how it helps in reducing the impact of disasters.
Answer:

Community participation plays a vital role in disaster management because it brings people together to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters effectively. When communities work as a team, they can reduce risks and save lives.

Here’s how community participation helps:

  • Awareness and Education: Communities can organize workshops and drills to teach people about disaster risks and safety measures.
  • Early Warning Systems: Locals can help spread alerts quickly, ensuring everyone gets timely information to take action.
  • Resource Sharing: Neighbors can pool resources like food, water, and medical supplies to support each other during emergencies.

By working together, communities become stronger and more resilient, minimizing the damage caused by disasters.

Question 6:
Explain the importance of disaster preparedness and describe any three steps that can be taken to prepare for a natural disaster like a flood.
Answer:

Disaster preparedness is crucial because it helps reduce the impact of natural disasters on lives and property. Being prepared ensures that people know what to do during emergencies, minimizing panic and confusion.

Here are three steps to prepare for a flood:

  • Create an emergency kit: Include essentials like food, water, medicines, a flashlight, and important documents in a waterproof bag.
  • Develop an evacuation plan: Identify safe routes and higher ground where you can move quickly if a flood warning is issued.
  • Stay informed: Listen to weather updates and warnings from authorities through radio, TV, or mobile alerts to act promptly.

Preparedness not only saves lives but also helps communities recover faster after a disaster.

Question 7:
Describe the role of community participation in disaster management and explain how it can help during an earthquake.
Answer:

Community participation plays a vital role in disaster management because it ensures collective effort and shared responsibility in preparing for and responding to disasters like earthquakes.

Here’s how communities can help during an earthquake:

  • Awareness programs: Communities can organize drills and workshops to teach people how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On during an earthquake.
  • Emergency response teams: Trained volunteers can assist in rescuing trapped individuals and providing first aid.
  • Resource sharing: Communities can pool resources like food, water, and shelter to support affected families.

When everyone works together, the impact of disasters is reduced, and recovery becomes faster and more efficient.

Question 8:
Explain the importance of disaster preparedness in schools and describe any three steps a school can take to ensure safety during a natural disaster.
Answer:

Disaster preparedness in schools is crucial because it helps protect students, teachers, and staff during emergencies like earthquakes, floods, or fires. Being prepared reduces panic, ensures quick action, and minimizes injuries or damage.

Here are three steps a school can take:

  • Conduct regular drills: Schools should organize earthquake, fire, and evacuation drills so everyone knows how to respond safely.
  • Create an emergency kit: Keep a kit with first-aid supplies, water, flashlights, and important contact numbers in an easily accessible place.
  • Develop a disaster management plan: Identify safe zones, assign roles to staff, and ensure clear exit routes are marked and unobstructed.

By following these steps, schools can create a safer environment and respond effectively during disasters.

Question 9:
Describe the role of community participation in disaster management and provide two examples of how communities can work together before and after a disaster.
Answer:

Community participation plays a vital role in disaster management because it brings people together to share resources, knowledge, and support, making recovery faster and more effective.

Here are two examples of community efforts:

  • Before a disaster: Communities can organize awareness campaigns to teach people about risks and preparedness, such as building stronger houses in flood-prone areas or storing emergency supplies.
  • After a disaster: People can form volunteer groups to help clear debris, distribute food, or provide shelter to those affected, ensuring no one is left without help.

Working together strengthens resilience and ensures everyone's safety during difficult times.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
During a school trip to a coastal area, students noticed warning signs about tsunamis. The teacher explained that tsunamis are caused by underwater earthquakes. Based on this scenario, answer the following:

a) What is a tsunami and how is it different from regular ocean waves?

b) List two safety measures people should take if a tsunami warning is issued.

Answer:

a) A tsunami is a series of extremely large ocean waves caused by underwater disturbances like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. Unlike regular ocean waves, which are caused by wind and are small, tsunamis can travel across entire oceans at high speeds and grow into massive walls of water when they reach shallow coasts.


b) Two safety measures during a tsunami warning are:

  • Move immediately to higher ground or an elevated area far from the coast.
  • Follow official evacuation routes and avoid staying near beaches or low-lying regions.

Additionally, staying informed through radio or emergency alerts is crucial.

Question 2:
A village near a forest frequently faces forest fires during summer. The villagers are now being educated on disaster preparedness. Answer the following:

a) What are the main causes of forest fires?

b) Suggest two ways villagers can help prevent forest fires.

Answer:

a) The main causes of forest fires include:

  • Natural causes like lightning strikes or extreme heat.
  • Human activities such as careless disposal of cigarettes, burning debris, or intentional arson.

b) Villagers can prevent forest fires by:

  • Avoiding burning waste or leaves during dry seasons.
  • Reporting any signs of fire immediately to authorities and creating firebreaks around settlements.

Community awareness and cooperation are key to reducing such disasters.

Question 3:
After a heavy monsoon, a city experienced severe flooding, disrupting daily life. Answer the following:

a) Name two human activities that can worsen flooding.

b) What steps can city authorities take to reduce flood risks in the future?

Answer:

a) Two human activities that worsen flooding are:

  • Deforestation, which reduces the land's ability to absorb water.
  • Poor urban drainage systems due to excessive construction and clogged waterways.

b) City authorities can reduce flood risks by:

  • Building proper drainage systems and maintaining rivers and canals to ensure smooth water flow.
  • Creating green spaces and rainwater harvesting systems to manage excess water.

Public awareness about waste disposal and sustainable urban planning also plays a vital role.

Question 4:
During a flood, Riya's family was advised to move to a safer place. However, her grandfather refused to leave their home. What steps should Riya take to convince her grandfather, and what are the risks of staying during a flood?
Answer:

Riya should calmly explain the dangers of staying during a flood using simple points:

  • Safety first: Floodwaters can rise quickly, making it hard to escape later.
  • Health risks: Stagnant water can spread diseases like cholera.
  • No electricity or food: Essential services may stop working.

The risks of staying include:
Drowning due to strong water currents.
Injury from floating debris or collapsed structures.
Isolation if roads become blocked, delaying rescue.

She could also involve neighbors or local authorities to help persuade him, emphasizing that temporary relocation ensures everyone's well-being.

Question 5:
A school in a cyclone-prone area conducts regular drills. Describe two precautions students practice during these drills and why they are important.
Answer:

During cyclone drills, students practice:

  • Moving to designated safe zones: Like inner rooms or basements, away from windows. This prevents injuries from shattered glass or flying objects.
  • Duck-and-cover technique: They crouch under sturdy desks, protecting their heads. This minimizes harm if the roof or walls collapse.

These precautions are vital because:
Cyclones bring violent winds that can destroy buildings.
Practicing ensures everyone acts quickly in real emergencies, reducing panic and saving lives.

Question 6:
After an earthquake, Nikhil noticed cracks in his school building. His friend suggested they enter to collect their bags. Why is this dangerous, and what should they do instead?
Answer:

Entering a cracked building after an earthquake is dangerous because:

  • Aftershocks can cause further collapse, trapping or injuring them.
  • Unstable structures may have hidden damage, like weakened pillars or hanging debris.

Instead, Nikhil should:
1. Stay away from the building and alert a teacher or adult.
2. Wait for experts to declare the building safe.
3. Follow evacuation protocols to assemble at a safe open area.

Personal belongings can be replaced, but safety cannot!

Question 7:
During a school trip to a hilly area, Rohan noticed a signboard saying 'Landslide Prone Zone'. His teacher explained the precautions to take.

What are the three safety measures Rohan and his classmates should follow in such an area?

Answer:

In a landslide-prone zone, Rohan and his classmates should follow these safety measures:

  • Avoid steep slopes: Stay away from areas with loose rocks or soil, as they can slide down easily during heavy rain.
  • Listen to warnings: Pay attention to local authorities or weather alerts about possible landslides and evacuate if advised.
  • Move to higher ground: If a landslide occurs, move quickly to a stable, elevated area to avoid being trapped by debris.

Additionally, they should not block drainage paths, as water buildup can trigger landslides.

Question 8:
A cyclone alert was issued in Priya's coastal town. Her family prepared an emergency kit.

List four essential items that should be included in a disaster emergency kit and explain why each is important.

Answer:

An emergency kit for a cyclone should include:

  • First-aid supplies: To treat minor injuries if medical help is unavailable.
  • Dry food and water: Non-perishable food and bottled water ensure survival if supplies are cut off.
  • Flashlight and batteries: Essential for visibility during power outages.
  • Important documents: Kept in a waterproof bag to prevent damage to IDs, insurance papers, etc.

Other useful items are a whistle for signaling help and a portable phone charger.

Question 9:
After an earthquake drill at school, Meera wondered how earthquakes occur.

Explain the basic cause of earthquakes and two safety steps to follow during an earthquake.

Answer:

Earthquakes occur due to the sudden movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface, releasing energy as seismic waves.

During an earthquake, follow these safety steps:

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold: Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table, and hold on until shaking stops.
  • Stay indoors: Avoid running outside, as falling debris can cause injuries.

After the shaking stops, evacuate carefully and avoid using elevators, as aftershocks may occur.

Question 10:
During a school trip to a hilly area, Rohan noticed a signboard warning about landslides. His teacher explained that heavy rains can trigger them. Help Rohan understand:
(a) What is a landslide?
(b) List two preventive measures to reduce landslide risks in hilly areas.
Answer:

(a) A landslide is the sudden movement of rocks, soil, and debris down a slope due to gravity, often caused by heavy rain, earthquakes, or human activities like deforestation.

(b) Two preventive measures are:

  • Planting trees and grasses to hold the soil together with their roots (afforestation).
  • Building retaining walls or barriers to stop loose rocks and soil from sliding.

Additionally, avoiding construction on steep slopes and proper drainage systems can help.

Question 11:
A cyclone alert was issued in Priya's coastal town. Her family prepared an emergency kit.
(a) Why is an emergency kit important during disasters?
(b) Name three essential items included in it and explain their uses.
Answer:

(a) An emergency kit ensures quick access to survival supplies during disasters, saving time and lives when help may not arrive immediately.

(b) Three essential items are:

  • First-aid box: Treats minor injuries and prevents infections.
  • Torch with batteries: Provides light during power outages.
  • Dry food and water bottles: Ensures nourishment if supplies are cut off.

Other items like a whistle (to signal for help) and important documents (in a waterproof bag) are also useful.

Question 12:
After learning about earthquakes, students in Class 5 practiced the Drop, Cover, and Hold drill.
(a) What does this drill protect us from during an earthquake?
(b) Describe the steps to perform it correctly at school.
Answer:

(a) The Drop, Cover, and Hold drill protects us from falling objects, collapsing structures, and injuries by minimizing movement during shaking.

(b) Steps to perform it:

  • Drop to your hands and knees to avoid being knocked over.
  • Cover your head and neck under a sturdy desk or table, or use your arms if no cover is nearby.
  • Hold onto the cover until shaking stops to stay shielded.

Remember to stay away from windows, heavy furniture, or shelves that could topple. Practice makes perfect!

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