What is defined as a hazard in emergency management?

In emergency management, a hazard is defined as a natural or human-made condition that can cause harm. This encompasses a range of potential threats, including natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, as well as human-made events such as industrial accidents or acts of terrorism. Understanding hazards is crucial because identifying and assessing them allows emergency managers to develop effective plans for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. This definition highlights the intrinsic risks associated with various conditions in the environment or society that could lead to disasters, making it foundational to the practices within emergency management.

The significance of this definition reinforces the need to consider various factors when preparing for emergencies. A proactive approach to analyzing hazards facilitates the implementation of preventive measures aimed at reducing their potential impact on communities.