Notes-Class-6-General Science-Chapter-5-Disaster Management-Maharashtra Board

Topics to be learn : Distinguish between natural and man-made disasters using historical case studies. Analyze the scientific mechanisms behind earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, cyclones, and forest fires. Evaluate risk factors and preventive measures for industrial accidents, warfare, and cybercrimes. Apply rapid response protocols, emergency contact networks, and specialized first-aid techniques for life-threatening situations.

Introduction to Disasters and Disaster Management :

What is a Disaster? : A disaster is a sudden event that causes great damage to people, property, and the environment.

• It can disturb normal life and damage homes, roads, buildings, and nature.
• Examples of disasters include earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, gas leaks, and forest fires.

What is Disaster Management? : Disaster Management means planning and taking quick action before, during, and after a disaster.

• Its main purpose is to save lives, reduce damage, and provide help to people in affected areas.

Main Principle of Disaster Management :

• The main aim of disaster management is to save human lives, protect property and infrastructure, and provide quick emergency help.

Important Steps :

• Identify risks: Find out which disasters may happen in an area.
• Give early warnings: Warn people before a disaster when possible.
• Train people: Teach people how to stay safe during disasters.
• Rescue people: Quickly save people trapped or in danger.
• Provide first aid: Give immediate medical help to injured people.

EXAM ALERT :Disaster Management = Planning + Preparation + Action. Never write only ‘help given after disaster’ – preparation before the disaster is part of the definition.

Classification of Disasters :

Disasters are mainly divided into two types based on their causes. They are Natural Disasters and Man-Made Disasters.

(1) Natural Disasters : Natural disasters are caused by natural forces of the Earth and nature. They are not directly caused by human activities.

Examples

• Earthquakes and tsunamis
• Floods and cloudbursts
• Storms and cyclones
• Forest fires

Predictability and Control  :

• Some natural disasters, such as storms and cyclones, can be predicted to some extent.
• However, disasters such as earthquakes can happen suddenly.
• Natural disasters cannot be completely prevented.

(2) Man-Made Disasters : Man-made disasters are caused by human mistakes, carelessness, negligence, or misuse of technology.

Examples

• Industrial accidents and chemical leaks
• Wars and armed conflicts
• Cyber crimes and ransomware attacks

Prevention and Control :

• Many man-made disasters can be reduced or prevented by following safety rules, maintaining machines properly, giving proper training, and using technology responsibly.

Natural Disasters :

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

What is an Earthquake? : An earthquake is the sudden shaking of the Earth caused by the movement of rocks deep underground.

• This movement releases a large amount of energy inside the Earth.
• Earthquakes usually occur along cracks or weak areas in the Earth's crust.

Epicenter : The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the place where an earthquake starts deep underground.

Measuring an Earthquake :

• A seismometer is an instrument used to record the shaking caused by an earthquake.
• Richter scale : The strength of an earthquake is commonly described using the Richter scale.
• Very strong earthquakes (intensity of 9 on the Richter Scale) can cause great damage to buildings and cities.

EXAM ALERT : Do not mix up the two: Seismometer = instrument (machine); Richter scale = unit/scale of measurement. A common question is ‘Which instrument records earthquakes?’ – answer: seismometer.

 How is a Tsunami Formed? : A tsunami can occur when a strong earthquake happens under the ocean. The movement of the ocean floor can create huge waves. These waves travel very quickly and can move far inland when they reach the coast.

Destruction Caused by Earthquakes and Tsunamis :

Earthquakes and tsunamis can cause serious damage.

• Buildings may collapse.
• Roads, bridges, and railway tracks may be damaged or destroyed.
• Electric cables may break.
• Underground water and gas pipes may burst.
• Rivers may change their course, causing floods in some places and water shortages in others.
• Tsunami waves can flood coastal areas and destroy homes, roads, and other property.

River Floods and Cloudbursts :

What is a River Flood? : A river flood happens when a river gets more water than it can hold and overflows its banks.

• This can happen because of heavy rainfall in the area around the river.
• Floods can damage villages, farms, roads, and cities.

What is a Cloudburst? : A cloudburst is a sudden and very heavy rainfall that occurs in a short time.

• It can cause large amounts of water to flow quickly through villages, forests, and valleys.
• It may wash away houses, roads, trees, and soil.

Natural Causes of Floods :

• Floods can be caused by several natural events:
• Heavy cloudbursts.
• Continuous and heavy rainfall.
• Large hailstorms.
• Rapid melting of snow in the mountains.
• Increased water in rivers flowing from the mountains.

Man-Made Causes of Floods

• Human activities can also increase the risk of floods:
• Building houses and roads on riverbanks can block the natural flow of water.
• Poorly maintained dams may cause flooding if they fail.
• City drains can become blocked by plastic and other waste, preventing rainwater from flowing away.

Flood Disaster Preparedness : We should be prepared to help people during floods.

• Rescue teams, small boats, long ropes, drinking water, packaged food, and first-aid kits should be kept ready.
• Proper planning and quick rescue work can save lives and reduce damage during floods.

Storms & Cyclones :

What is a Storm? : A storm is a weather condition that can bring strong winds and heavy rain.

• Storms can form when there is a difference in air pressure.
• Air moves quickly from areas of high pressure to low pressure.

What is a Cyclone? : A cyclone is a powerful storm that usually forms over the ocean.

• It can move towards land with very strong winds and heavy rainfall, causing serious damage.

Storm Safety :

Remember: Staying indoors and following official warnings can help keep us safe during storms and cyclones.

Forest Fires :

What is a Forest Fire? : A forest fire is a fire that spreads through a forest and burns trees, plants, and other vegetation. It can spread quickly, especially during hot and dry weather.

Causes of Forest Fires :

• Forest fires can start naturally when dry branches rub against each other and create heat due to friction.
• They can also start because of human activities.

Effects of Forest Fires :

Forest fires can cause serious damage:

• Trees, plants, and shrubs may burn.
• Many wild animals and birds may lose their homes or lives.
• Smoke from fires can cause air pollution.
• Large fires can damage the forest ecosystem.
• Uncontrolled fires may continue for a long time and spread over large areas.

Controlling Forest Fires : Firefighters use special vehicles, airplanes, and helicopters to control large forest fires. Quick action is important to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Man-Made Disasters :

• Man-made disasters are disasters caused by human mistakes, carelessness, unsafe actions, or misuse of technology.
• They can often be reduced or prevented by following safety rules.

How human activity increases disasters :

Expansion of cities, construction of roads and highways and clearing of open spaces for large industries lead to deforestation. Together with excessive use of fuels, this seriously affects the environment:

Step	What happens
1	Cities, roads, highways and industries expand → massive deforestation
2	Excessive use of fuels → temperature of atmosphere and oceans rises
3	Rainfall patterns and timings change
4	Result: floods, crop damage and landslides

MNEMONIC   Three kinds of man-made disasters – ‘A Wise Citizen’ - Accidents  •  War  •  Cyber crimes

(1) Accidents :

• While driving a vehicle or working in a factory, sudden accidents occur due to human error or negligence: chemical leaks in factories, major road accidents, and electrical mishaps.
• Such disasters have a fatal impact on humans, animals and the environment.
• Accidents can also result in fires and building collapses.

Industrial Accidents and Factory Safety :

Industrial accidents can happen in factories because of unsafe working conditions, poor maintenance, or human mistakes.

Causes of Industrial Accidents :

• Ignoring safety rules and behaving carelessly.
• Using damaged or poorly maintained machines.
• Not giving workers proper safety training.
• Incorrect handling or storage of chemicals and flammable materials.
• Making workers work for too long without proper breaks.

Safety Measures :

• Workers should use proper safety equipment.
• Machines should be checked and maintained regularly.
• Workers should receive proper safety and emergency training.
• Chemicals should be stored safely and carefully.
• Workers should have reasonable working hours and proper breaks.

(2) War and Armed Conflicts :

Wars and armed conflicts can happen because of disagreements between countries, fights over land, or aggression.

Wars can cause great damage to people and property.

• Buildings, roads, and bridges may be destroyed.
• Water supplies may become unsafe or polluted.
• Hospitals and medical services may become difficult to access.
• Harmful substances from weapons can pollute the environment.
• Many people may have to leave their homes.
• People may suffer from fear, stress, and emotional problems.

(3) Cyber Crimes and Digital Safety :

Cyber crimes are crimes carried out using computers, mobile phones, or the internet.

• Phishing : Phishing is a trick used to steal personal information, passwords, or bank details through fake messages, emails, or websites.
• Ransomware : Ransomware is a type of cyber attack that locks or encrypts computer files and demands money to unlock them.
• Cyberstalking and Fake Digital Arrests : Cyberstalking means repeatedly harassing or threatening someone online. In a fake digital arrest scam, criminals may pretend to be police or government officials and threaten people with false legal problems to frighten them into giving money or information.

Digital Safety :

We should follow these safety rules:

• Use strong passwords.
• Never share your OTP or password with strangers.
• Do not click on unknown links.
• Be careful with suspicious calls, messages, and emails.
• Report cyber crimes to the proper authorities.

In India, cyber crimes are dealt with under laws including the Information Technology Act.

First Aid Fundamentals and Emergency Protocols :

What is First Aid? : First aid is the immediate help given to a person who is injured or suddenly becomes ill.

• It is given before the person receives proper medical treatment.
• The main aims of first aid are to save lives, reduce pain, and prevent the injury from becoming worse.

First Aid Kit :

A first aid kit should contain basic items such as:

• Bandages and sterile gauze
• Antiseptic ointment
• Scissors
• Burn relief gel
• Clean cloth
• Other basic medical supplies

The first aid kit should be kept in an easy-to-see and easily reachable place at home, school, office, and in vehicles.

First Aid for Common Emergencies

(1) External Bleeding :

• Apply gentle, firm pressure on the wound using a clean cloth or gauze.
• If possible, keep the injured part raised.
• If the bleeding does not stop, get medical help immediately.
• Keep the injured person calm and reassure them.

(2) Sunstroke :

Causes : Sunstroke can happen when a person stays in very hot conditions for a long time or does heavy physical activity in extreme heat.

Symptoms : The person may have hot skin, dizziness, headache, confusion, vomiting, or fainting.

First Aid :

• Move the person to a cool and shaded place.
• Cool the body with a wet cloth or water.
• Get medical help quickly.
• If the person is unconscious or not fully alert, do not give them anything to drink.

(3) Burns and Clothing Fires :

If Clothes Catch Fire

• Tell the person to stop, drop, and roll on the ground. This helps put out the flames.

For Burns

• Do not burst blisters.
• Do not pull clothes that are stuck to burnt skin.
• Get medical help for serious burns.

(4) Snake Bites :

What to Do :

• Keep the person calm and as still as possible.
• Avoid unnecessary movement.
• Get medical help immediately.
• If it is safe, a photo of the snake may help doctors identify it.

What Not to Do :

• Do not make the person run.
• Do not cut the bite.
• Do not try to suck out the poison.
• Do not use unverified home remedies or visit people who claim to cure snake bites without medical treatment.

(5) Dog Bites :

• Wash the wound thoroughly with plenty of clean running water.
• Take the person to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.
• The doctor will decide whether rabies vaccination and other treatment are needed.
• Do not apply unverified home remedies or medicines without medical advice.

Remember: First aid is only immediate help. Serious injuries, bites, burns, and heat-related emergencies need professional medical care as soon as possible.