2.3 final

What are common hazards found in urban neighbourhoods?

Fire hazards, air pollution hazards, and traffic hazards.

Define a hazard in the context of urban neighbourhoods.

A hazard refers to a process, phenomenon, or human activity that may cause loss of life, health impacts, property damage, and social or economic consequences.

What are the two classifications of hazards?

Natural hazards and man-made hazards.

Give an example of a natural hazard.

Earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

What are common causes of fire hazards in urban areas?

Unattended cooking and faulty electrical appliances or wiring.

What was a significant fire hazard incident reported in Singapore in 2021?

358 cases of fires due to unattended cooking.

List two health impacts of fire hazards.

Burn injuries and carbon monoxide poisoning.

What can high levels of carbon monoxide cause during a fire?

Headaches, dizziness, weakness, confusion, and potentially loss of consciousness or death.

What is one major impact of fire hazards on property?

Destruction of commercial or residential properties leading to economic losses.

What is air pollution?

The presence of contaminant or pollutant substances in the air that interfere with human health or produce harmful environmental effects.

What are common causes of air pollution in urban areas?

Burning vegetation and industrial or motor emissions.

What health issues can arise from air pollution?

Respiratory infections, heart diseases, and lung cancer.

What is PM2.5?

Particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter that can enter the bloodstream and lodge deep in the lungs.

What are common causes of traffic hazards?

Speeding, red-light running, and drink-driving.

What was a notable traffic accident statistic from Singapore in 2021?

969 speeding-related traffic accidents and 153 accidents caused by drink-driving.

What are the potential health impacts of traffic hazards?

Serious injuries leading to disabilities or loss of life.

Who are typically high-risk victims in traffic accidents?

Elderly pedestrians and motorcyclists.

What is the impact of smoke inhalation during a fire?

Breathing difficulties and suffocation, potentially leading to death.

What can cause permanent damage to a person's respiratory system during a fire?

Irritants such as acid gases.

What economic costs can arise after a fire incident?

Costs for repairing and rebuilding damaged properties.

What was the increase in vegetation fires in Singapore in the first half of 2019?

A 56% increase from 2018 due to drier and hotter weather.

What are the effects of nitrogen dioxide in urban areas?

Higher risks of asthma in children and lung function decline in older adults.

What is the significance of the term 'hazards' in urban planning?

Understanding hazards is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate risks to health and safety.

How can faulty electrical wiring contribute to fire hazards?

It can ignite nearby flammable materials, resulting in a fire.

What are the social consequences of hazards in urban neighbourhoods?

Disruption of community life and increased vulnerability of residents.