2.3 - Common Hazards in an Urban Neighbourhood (Express)

Something is considered a hazard only if it causes a loss of life.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Not true! A hazard can be something that causes

- damages to health

- property damage

- negative social consequences

- negative economic consequences

It need not cause death to be considered a hazard.

Hazards can be natural or man-made.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Yes! Natural hazards include earthquakes. Man-made hazards include traffic hazards!

The picture shows the town of Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland on 23 January, 1973.

On the picture, click on the correct point which identifies the hazard.

Answer explanation

Yes, the volcano and the hot ashes it expels are the hazards!

Using the photograph, explain why the volcano is a hazard to the town.

Ensure you dealt with the following aspects:

(1) Loss of lives

(2) Property damage

Is this a natural or man-made hazard?

• Natural Hazard

• Man-made hazard

Answer explanation

The danger and damage is caused by natural processes, not humans! Hence, it is a natural hazard.

What are some of the common hazards in an urban neighbourhood in Singapore?

(Choose all correct options)

• Fire hazards

• Air Pollution

• Traffic Hazards

• Earthquakes

Answer explanation

Earthquakes may be a hazard in some cities like Tokyo, Japan. However, it is not a common hazard in SINGAPORE.

Which of the following is NOT a common reason for fire hazards in urban neighbourhoods in Singapore?

• Unattended cooking

• Faulty electrical applicances and wiring

• Candles

Match the following health impacts caused by fire hazards in an urban neighbourhood.

• Breathing difficulties, suffocation, and even death.

• Breathing in high levels of carbon monoxide

• Carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to loss of consciousness and death.

• Heat from the fire

• Permanent damage to person's respiratory system

• Irritants from fire, such as acid and chemical gases

• Burn injuries, which can lead to disabilities and death

• Smoke inhalation

Air pollution are caused by activities in the city only.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Yes, activities elsewhere can cause air pollution in the city. In the past, every year, Singapore would be covered by haze from the burning forests in Sumatra, Indonesia!

Match the common causes of of air pollution and the pollutants they produce.

• Industrial emissions

• Factories

• Exhaust emissions, such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide

• Cars and motor vehicles

• Carbon dioxide, ashes

• Burning vegetation (Grass/shrubs etc.)