Sci 2

Zeta M. Cabili
Faculty, College of Education

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Earth: Geology

Introduction
The Earth is composed of three parts namely: soil, water, and air with the interaction of the
Sun as the main source of energy on Earth.
Soil is a very important natural resource made up of tiny particles of rocks and decayed
plants and animals. It also contains water and some gases found at the uppermost layer.
More than 97% of the earth’s water is in the world’s seas and oceans. Some are
underground, and some are stored in the mountains of ice caps in the poles of the earth.
Tectonic plate under the Earth can create landforms by pushing up mountains and hills.
Large bodies of water contain resources vital to human societies.
The Earth is a dynamic and ever-changing planet. Agents like wind, water, and ice erode
and change the land. Volcanic activities and earthquakes modify the landscape in a random and
remarkable way.
The effects brought about by these changes might not be immediately visible, but over time,
the effects would become greater, and thus, more observable.
The amount of change brought on Earth by various environmental factors and events not
only affects the surface of the Earth. It can also greatly affect the lives of people, animals, and
other organisms living within and near the area where change occurs. That is why it is important
to learn how or why certain changes take place, why they happen, and what we must do to
prepare for them.

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this Module, you should be able to:
1. describe what makes up the environment
2. investigate two components of the physical environment- soil and water
3. explain the processes that shape the surface of the Earth

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Different Landforms in the Community (Grade 3)

VALLEY
PLAINS

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MOUNTAINS
HILLS

VOLCANO

Different Bodies of Water in the Community

OCEAN ISLAND 59
 FALLS
RIVER

LAKE

Let’s Explore!
In your place, take pictures of the different bodies of water and landforms. The pictures
must be printed and pasted on the notebook.

Soil and Water (Grade 4)

Soil covers most of the land part of the earth. You find plants, animals, houses and other
organisms on the soil. We live on the soil and it helps us in many ways. Different types of soil have
different physical characteristics. Each soil type differs in color, texture, odor and its ability to hold
water. Some soils are good for planting while others are not. The presence of the different kinds of
vegetative plants in a place is an evidence of a good quality of soil in the area or locality.
Sometimes a combination of soil is observed in some areas of the country.

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There are four different types of soil in our environment, namely:
1. Clay- the particles are packed together tightly. It is sticky when wet and has the finest
texture.
2. Loam- it is a mixture of sand
and clay. It contains large
amount of decaying plants and
animals. It has a fine texture.
3. Sand- particles are coarse and
loose.
4. Silt- made up of very fine
particles of soil, deposited as
sediments.
Soil is a system into which energy
and matter from the sun, the atmosphere, and living organisms penetrate and interact. It is a
system because it is composed of many different parts. Each of the layers has a special
function to perform.

Layers of Soil
The soil is made up of different layers. Each layer has its own characteristics.

The topsoil(A- Horizon) is the uppermost layer of the soil. This layer is rich with organic
materials called humus
and with minerals needed
for plant growth. Humus
comes from decaying
plants and animals. The
soil’s dark color is an
indication of the presence
of humus. Several kinds of
plants can be seen
growing on this year.

The Sub-soil (B- Horizon)

is located just below the
topsoil. It is composed of
loosely arranged rocks, sand, and clay. This layer is very rich with minerals that drain from
topsoil. When the topsoil is washed out, the subsoil alone cannot support plant life.

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 The Parent Rock (C-Horizon) is composed of rocks that are slowly breaking apart. It is
exposed to very little weathering. It does not contain necessary nutrients and water needed for
plant growth.

The Bedrock (C-Horizon) is the lowest part of the soil layers. It is made up of undisturbed
large boulders and gravel. This layer contains minerals good for constructing buildings and
making roads. No plant life can survive in this layer.

Activity: Fast or Slow?

What you need: 3 pcs. clear plastic cups (same size, shape and color with fine holes at the
bottom)

Wristwatch or stopwatch
Do- It- Yourself (DIY) Equipment -Soil Tester
3 pcs. of plastic spoons
3 pcs. of plastic cups (same size and shape) with tap water
3 packs of different soil samples (labelled A, B, and C)
3 pcs. clear plastic cups
Marker
Wristwatch or stopwatch

NOTE:

1. In the absence of the Do- It Yourself Equipment, you may use clear plastic cups each
placed on top of clear drinking glasses.
2. Make sure you use clear glasses of the same size.
What to do:
1. Fill each clear plastic cup of the DIY instrument with 75% or ¾ cup soil.
2. Using the marker, label each cup with A, B, and C.
3. Mount the cups on the DIY holder.
4. Place one cup below each mounted cup on the DIY to serve as catch basin of the water
that will drip from the mounted cup.
5. Observe each sample and fill-out the table below.
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6. Pour at least 25% or ¼ cup water on each cup of soil labelled A,B, and C at the same time.
7. Ask somebody to record the time using the stopwatch or wristwatch after pouring water on
the DIY equipment.
8. Observe again the samples.
9. Record your observations using the table below.
Cup No. No. of minutes
Characteristics Observations the water is
absorbed

Before adding After adding

Color Texture
water water

1
2
3

Guide Questions:
1. What did you observe when you added water to each soil sample?
2. In which cup or sample was water absorbed the fastest? How fast was it absorbed? Why do
you think so?
3. In which cup or sample was water absorbed the slowest? How slow was it absorbed? Why
do you think so?
4. Was there a change in the appearance or texture of each soil sample after you poured
water on it? Why or why not?
5. What does the activity show?

Sources and Kinds of Water

Water comes from different sources. It may come from open or closed sources. It may also
come from a small body of water or a big body of water. Rainwater comes from clouds.
There are 3 main sources of water. The kind of water depends on its source. The 3 different
kinds of water are seawater, freshwater, and groundwater.

1. Seawater is salty. It contains plenty of salt. It is found in the seas and oceans. Seawater is
also called hard water.

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2. Freshwater is also called surface water. Unlike the seawater, it does not contain salt. This is
found in open but small bodies of water like rivers, lakes, creeks, and ponds. Surface water
comes mostly from rain. Rainwater flows from land into streams and rivers. In cold
countries, it also comes from snow. Great quantities of snow accumulate on highlands and
mountains during winter. In spring, the snow melts and runs off into surface water.
3. Groundwater is found beneath the earth’s surface. It comes from water that seeps into the
ground. These accumulate in the underground layer called water table. It is considered the
cleanest water and contains plenty of dissolved minerals which the human body needs.
Springs are openings of the groundwater directly to the earth’s surface.
Other sources of water are clouds, icebergs, and glaciers. Clouds come from evaporating
water. Glaciers and icebergs are solid water found only in very cold countries and contain
about two-thirds of the earth’s freshwater.

Remember these:
Water is a renewable resource because of the water cycle. But a lot of places in the world
and in our country do not have enough water because there are two problems with water:
amount of distribution and quality or safety. There are two important sources of water supply;
surface water and ground water.

Uses of Freshwater
Freshwater is used for cleaning, washing, bathing, preparing food and other household
uses. Freshwater sustains plant and animal life. It is used to water plants. It is given to
animals to drink. Without water, plants will wither. Without water, animals and people will die
of thirst. Freshwater in rivers, lakes and springs is used for recreation. One can go swimming
or boating in these places. Clean rivers and lakes are also a rich source of shrimps, crabs,
and shellfish.
Rivers and lakes whose water is not very clean may still be useful. They can serve as
routes of transportation for boats like ferry boats in the Pasig River. Water may also be used
in farms for irrigation and livestock watering and in factories.
Seawater is the habitat of aquatic plants and animals. The oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and
ponds are the habitats of most of the aquatic plants and animals. These plants and animals
are used mainly for food and medicine.

The water part of the earth is called hydrosphere or “water sphere”. This covers three-
fourths of its surface. Therefore, water covers a larger area of its surface than land. That is
why the earth is called “the blue planet”. Water gives the earth its characteristics of blue color
as seen from outer space. Water continuously moved in the earth’s surface in a process
called “water cycle”. Although there is a continuous cycle of water, you might wonder if there
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will come a time when we will run out of water. Do you know that about 97% of the water
found in our surroundings is salty? Thus, only 3% of this water is fresh or potable. This very
small amount of fresh water is 67% locked in the form of ice mainly found in Greenland and
Antarctic. Therefore, only about 1% of freshwater is found in rivers, lakes, ponds, and in the
atmosphere in the form of water vapor.

Water Cycle

Let’s Apply!

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 Think of a familiar song and tune. Change some of the lyrics of the original familiar song
(English song) with words about soil and water. Compose now your new song. Use your
creativity.

Processes that Shape the Earth’s Surface (Grade 5)

The picture above shows the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos, Ilocos Norte. Our
country is a well-known tourist spot because of its beautiful beaches and historical places. It
also has breathtaking rock formations that are really amazing to look at. Its rocks have very
peculiar shapes, sizes, and patterns. Have you wondered how these rocks were formed and
how long it took them to form? Earth is mainly composed of rocks that differ in terms of sizes,
shapes, and colors. Though rocks seem to be very hard, dense, and indestructible, they still
break. The breaking of rocks into fragments is known as weathering.
Weathering is an important process that helps shape the Earth’s surface. The breaking of
rocks results in the formation of soil and different landforms. Weathering can either be
mechanical or chemical. Mechanical weathering is the physical wearing away of rocks,
while chemical weathering involves a change in the composition of rocks that allows them to
break down into pieces.

1. Mechanical Weathering
It is brought about by the following conditions:
1. Changes in Temperature
Forces generated by temperature changes are significant. Alternate heating and
cooling can cause rocks to break. The minerals and moisture in rocks expand when heated
and contract when cooled. Overtime, the rocks crack and break into pieces. If this happens
over a long period of time, the outer layers of rocks may peel off. This phenomenon is
called exfoliation.
2. Force of Freezing Water
In some places on Earth, the daily temperature is very low. It can be several degrees
below the freezing point of water, which is 0°C.Water has a unusual property-it expands
slightly upon freezing. The ice formed has an increased volume. When water present in
rock crevices freezes due to cold weather, the rock splits into pieces.
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3. Growing Rocks
The seeds of plants and trees may fall into the rocks and grow there. Have you ever
seen trees growing between big rocks? As they grow, the roots exert a force which can
split rocks.
4. Burrowing Animals
Animals such as earthworms, ants, and larva of insects dig into the rocks, thus
exposing fresh surfaces to further weathering.
5. Wind
The wind, together with dust and fine particles, may strike exposed rock surfaces.
Over time, such friction can break rocks into smaller particles.
6. Gravity
When rocks fall on other rock surfaces, finer particles are produced.
Rocks on a hillside may roll down and rub against other rocks. Sand and gravel may
scratch other rocks as they are carried off by water.
7. Force of Moving Water
Rocks along riverbanks and in riverbeds generally have smooth, rounded surfaces. Their
sharp edges have been worn away by the force of flowing water. Pebbles on the seashore
are also smooth and rounded.
Wave action can break rocks into pieces. An example of this action is what happens to the
Hundred Islands in the province of Pangasinan.
Rain can likewise break rocks apart.

8. Chemical Weathering
In chemical weathering, the composition of rocks is changed. A chemical reaction
between chemicals in the rocks and oxygen, carbon dioxide, or water causes rocks to
become soft and crumbly.
The chemical processes that bring about weathering are the following:
1. Oxidation is the process by which oxygen combines with other substances to form oxides.

Iron (Fe)
The reddish color of soil and some rocks indicates the presence of iron oxide. Oxygen is
most effective in promoting weathering if it is dissolved in water. The presence of water in

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 the air hastens oxidation. Nails dipped in water easily form iron oxide or rust. When rust is
formed on a rock surface, the rock crumbles to pieces. We can reduce the occurrence of
oxidation by painting exposed surfaces. Varnish and oil can also prevent the combination of
oxygen in the air with iron.
2.
Carbonation is a process brought about by the action of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide
from the air dissolves in water, forming a weak acid called carbonic acid.
3.
Hydration is the chemical union of water with other elements. Water in the atmosphere or
on the ground combines with minerals in rocks to form new substances. For example,
limonite is a combination of iron oxide and water. The minerals swell during hydration and
form cracks in the rock.
4.
Dissolution refers to the dissolving of various substances in a medium like water. Rock salt
is easily dissolved in water. This process is responsible for the removal of the lime content
of the soil.
The continued removal of minerals from the soil by solution is called leaching. Caves are
formed in this manner.

Soil Formation
Weathering is an important geological process. What would happen if the bedrock
remained in one solid piece? Rocks contain important minerals that plants need. If the
minerals are not released from the rocks, they will be stored forever.
When rocks are withered, soil is formed. Soil is defined as the layer of fine loose
materials on the earth’s surface. It is made up of tiny grains of rocks and minerals. Soil may
be deposited in the same place where it was formed. This is called residual soil. Particles
that are carried away are called transported soil.

Soil Erosion
Mechanical and chemical weathering occur at the same time in nature. Both
processes continuously but slowly eat up the earth’s solid crust. The broken particles of rock
become exposed to the forces of nature. They can be deposited where they are formed, or
they may be carried away to other places by the action of wind or water. The movement of
rock fragments and soil from one place to another is called erosion. Erosion of rock
fragments greatly contributes to the soil formation as well as formation of landforms. We
may notice that that some high land areas get lower. We also observe that low areas of land
get filled.

Let us take a closer look at some agents that are responsible for the distribution of soil
particles.

Erosion is brought about by important agents:

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1.
Water
As water flows, it transports rock and soil particles from one place to another. The
speed of flowing water affects the rate of erosion. The faster the water flows, the faster and
farther the erosion would be. Faster movement of water can cause many sediments to be
carried away by the water.All rivers originate from mountains and flow downstream. As the
water flows, it carries loose particles of rock. The swifter the flow, the more particles it
carries. This type of erosion is called stream erosion. Soil in flat areas, like our gardens and
the roadsides, is also carried away by running water. A heavy rain may produce a strong
flow of water. Water that does not sink into the soil remains on the surface and is called
runoff. It carries soil particles with it on its way. The runoff may join a nearby stream. It may
deposit its load in a low land area, or it may finally be absorbed by the soil. This type of
erosion is called sheet erosion. As water aids erosion, its color changes depending on the
color of the rock and the soil particles that it carries. For example, water that flows from a
mountain can be brow because of the soil particles from the mountain that it carries. Mud left
on the ground after flooding is also an evidence of erosion.

2.
Wind
As the wind blows¸ it carries light particles of rocks and soil, transporting and depositing
them in another place. The process by which soil and loose rock particles are blown away is
called deflation. Loose dry soil is carried farther away compared to wet, compact soil. The
wind may deposit its load over a wide area, forming hills of sand called sand dunes. Another
kind of wind deposit, called loess, is composed of fine particles and minerals. Erosion can also
occur through abrasion. This happens when wind, carrying sharp and hard sand particles,
strikes rock surfaces. These particles scratch the rock surfaces, and the wind carries the fine
particles of rock that break away. Dust storms are another phenomenon. A very strong wind
can pick up soil and blow it over a great distance.

3. Animals
Animals also contribute to the transportation of sediments. When burrowing animals dig the
ground, some rock and soil particles stick to their bodies. As they move from place to place,
they carry such particles, too. Earthworms live in holes in the ground called burrows. Ants and
some termites and larva of other insects live underground. The soil dug up and file on the
surface and are later brought to other places.

4. Humans
Although erosion is a natural phenomenon is a natural phenomenon, humans have a major
contribution to the rate of soil erosion in the environment. Just like animals, whenever we walk,
the soil clings to our shoes, so the soil gets transported from place to place. Other human
activities like gardening can also cause erosion since soil moves as we dig the ground. When
quarrying, the impact created by blasting rocks and soil particles triggers soil erosion. Huge

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volumes of soil and sand also get transported when they are used in the construction of
houses and other infrastructure.

Let’s Apply It!

In your notebook, paste pictures of places that have obviously undergone weathering and
places that have not.

Let’s Recall!
Complete the diagram by filling out the missing information in the circles. Then, give at least
one example per agent of erosion. Diagram page 162.

Let’s Go Beyond!
The Guinsaugon landslide in Leyte in February 2006 claimed the lives of many people and
buried their town. The authorities blamed it on the loss of trees due to illegal logging. What is
the role of the trees that could have prevented the incident?

Changes Due to Earthquakes (Grade 6)

The earth consists of different

layers. Its

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surface belongs to the first layer called the crust. This layer is made up of several large and small
plates. The middle layer is called mantle. It is the widest layer of the earth and is made up of
magma. The central layer is called the core and is divided into a liquid layer called outer core and
a solid layer called inner core. You will learn more about the Earth’s layers in later grade
levels.The movement of plates on the crust is often accompanied by earthquakes and volcanic
eruptions. An earthquake is the shaking of the ground. Earthquakes happen when crustal plates
move. As these plates move, some parts of the earth’s crust are pushed toward each other or
away from each other. Their movement causes nearby rocks to move as well. These rocks break
and slide past each other. When rocks break, waves of energy are released and sent out through
the Earth. These waves trigger an earthquake. The motion of the ground during an earthquake is
measured by an instrument called a seismograph.
There are two types of earthquakes. These are the volcanic and tectonic earthquakes. A volcanic
earthquake happens with a strong volcanic eruption while a tectonic earthquake is caused by
the movement of the earth’s crust. A tectonic earthquake may occur above the ground of beneath
the ocean.The strength of an earthquake is measured in terms of magnitude and
intensity.Magnitude refers to the amount of energy released by an earthquake from its focus. The
focus is the break in the ground caused by the pressure of the moving rocks. This is the place
where the earthquake originates. The ground above the focus is called the epicenter.

In measuring an earthquake’s magnitude, we use the Richter Scale. It was developed by

Charles F. Richter, an American seismologist.In the Philippines, we use the PHIVOLCS (Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) Earthquake Intensity Scale in measuring the
earthquake’s intensity.

Intensity, on the other hand, refers to the effects of the earthquake as shown in the
destruction of buildings, infrastructures, crops, as well as number of casualties.

The Richter Scale

Magnitude
0-1.9 detected only by seismograph
2-2.9 hanging objects may swing
3-3.9 comparable to vibrations of a passing truck
4-4.9 may break windows, cause small or unstable objects to
fall
5-5.9 damage to well-built structures, severe damage to poorly
built ones
6-6.9 chunk of plaster may fall from walls
7-7.9 building displaced from foundations; cracks on Earth’s 71
surface; underground pipes are broken
8-8.9 bridges destroyed; few structures left standing
9 and above near-total destruction
 FOCUS

Historical records of earthquakes in the Philippines from 1589 to the present show that our
country is frequently hit by earthquakes. Some of these earthquakes have caused a large number
of casualties and damages to properties. This is due to our country’s location in the area where
crustal plates are weak. This area is called the Circumpacific Belt or the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Let’s Go Beyond!
1. Why does the Philippines experience both tectonic and volcanic earthquakes?

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2. Where do you think is the damage caused by an earthquake greater? Is it near or far from
the epicenter? Why?

Let’s Apply It!

Research on magnitudes of the strongest earthquakes that have occurred in the Philippines
in the last 20 years.

Changes Due To Volcanic Eruptions

Taal Volcano
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Have you ever seen this volcano? How is it different from other landforms?

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust. Molten rocks, ashes, and gaseous materials
are forced out through its opening. The opening of a volcano is called the crater. In our country,
there are many volcanoes. Some of them are Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon, Mt. Pinatubo in Zambales,
Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Oriental, and Hibok-Hibok Volcano in Camiguin.

Volcanoes vary in sizes. Some are just low-lying depressions while others are tall, like Mt.
Mayon. Volcanoes also vary in shape. Some are shaped like a cone while others are like a dome.

How does a volcanic eruption occur? When tectonic plates collide, massive rocks
underground deform and trigger a build-up of temperature and pressure. The release of magma
from the crater is called a volcanic eruption. The magma that flows out on the surface is called
lava. When a volcano erupts, it throws out lava together with gases, rocks, and ashes.

A volcanic eruption can be explosive or nonexplosive. An eruption is explosive when large

amounts of pyroclastic materials are ejected by the volcano into the air. Pyroclastic materials
consist of lava, ashes, volcanic glass, and rocks. It occurs when gases in the magma are trapped,
causing a buildup of pressure in the magma chamber. As a result, the gases expand very quickly
and explode violently. This results in a loud explosion. An explosive eruption can last for several
hours or days.

In a nonexplosive eruption, lava just flows out of the crater and gaps along the sides of
the volcano. This kind of eruption happens when there is less pressure in the magma chamber.
There is less pressure when magma is located nearer the Earth’s surface.

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Effects of Volcanic Eruptions
Volcanic eruptions can cause damage to plants, animals, people, and property. Aside from
destruction, materials released by a volcano can have beneficial effects in nature.
During a volcanic eruption, very hot lava flow can burn anything in its path. The mudflow or
lahar can cause landsides, flooding, and immense damage to buildings and farms. Volcanic ash
and dust released in the air can irritate the lungs and cause health problems. Very strong
eruptions can also trigger earthquakes.
Despite the destruction it causes, a volcanic eruption can also be beneficial. The pyroclastic
materials from a volcano can make the soil fertile. The heat inside the volcano can cause gases to
come out through holes or vents called fumaroles. These fumaroles can provide geothermal
steam to generate electricity. Eruptions can also produce industrial materials like pumice and
sulfur. Pumice is used in grinding and polishing stones while sulfur is used in making matches and
firecrackers. The rocks from volcanoes also help scientists study the interior of the Earth.
Picture of mt. mayon page 186

Let’s Explore!

VOLCANIC ERUPTION
Science Skill: Observing
Time Frame: 15 minutes

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You Will Need:
baking soda vinegar dishwashing liquid
clay googles apron/laboratory gown
face mask food coloring (red)
small bottle like soft drink or water bottle
What to do:
1. Wear your protective gear before you start the activity. Make sure that you do this activity
with an adult’s supervision.
2. Cover the bottle with clay. Shape it like a cone or a mountain. Leave the opening of the
bottle open.
3. Put about 4 tablespoons of baking soda into the bottle. Add several drops of dishwashing.
Add several drops of dishwashing liquid and food coloring.
4. Add 50 ml. of vinegar into the bottle.
5. Observe what happens.
Questions:
1. What have you observed after you poured the vinegar into the “crater” of your volcano?
2. What might have caused the vinegar and baking soda to burst out of the volcano when they
were mixed? Relate this to explosive eruptions of volcanoes.
Let’s Go Beyond
Do you have a hot spring in your area? This may show the presence of a volcano in your
place. Confirm this.

Let’s Recall
Research on a volcanic eruption here in the country. Print photos regarding its effect. Then
paste them on your notebook.

Disaster Preparedness on Earthquake and Volcanic Eruption

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 This seismograph is used by seismologists to record the
vibrations caused by earthquakes

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are both dangerous. It is hard to tell when they are going to
happen. Here are some things that you can do to protect yourself against their harmful effects.

Before an EARTHQUAKE

1. Check the structure of your house or building. Look for potentially dangerous things such as
steep hill slopes, hanging objects, falling debris, etc.
2. Familiarize yourself with your home and school. Know the routes you will take to get out
from the building in case of an earthquake.
3. Find the place where fire extinguishers, first aid kits, alarms, and communication facilities
are located. Know how to use the said facilities and equipment.
4. Prepare an emergency plan to cope with the disaster.
5. Have a stock of potable water, flashlight, radio, batteries, spare clothes, and some food
packed. You may need this in case of an evacuation.

During an EARTHQUAKE
1. Keep calm when you feel the earthquake. If you are inside the building, go under a desk or
table. If you are outside, stay away from buildings or electric posts or anything that might
fall.
2. Do not rush to the exit when you are in a crowded place like theater, mall, train, or stadium
to avoid stampede.
3. If you are in a moving car, ask the driver to stop and park the car away from buildings,
electric wires, or posts.

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4. Do not use the elevators during and after an earthquake. You can be stranded inside the
elevator if a power failure occurs.
5. If you are residing near a coastal area, always be aware of tsunami. If you feel an
earthquake, immediately run to higher grounds.
After an EARTHQUAKE
1. Find a safe place when the earthquake is over. Aftershocks are likely to follow.
2. Check the safety of your family members. If someone is missing or in trouble, seek aid to
find them.
3. Do not attempt to cross bridges and overpasses which may have been damaged by the
earthquake.
4. Check for fires, if there are any. Some dangers from the earthquake may result to a fire. In
case you see a fire, locate the nearest fire control or alarm unit and use it.
5. Keep yourself updated and alert. Authorities may issue some instructions to reduce the
effects of earthquakes.
Before a Volcanic Eruption
A volcano shows signs of possible eruption, loke earthquakes, increasing emission of
steam and rumbling sounds. Therefore, it is possible to make preparations for safety before the
volcano erupts.
What should people living near a volcano do to lessen the destructive effects of an eruption?
1. Be aware of any unusual volcanic activity.
2. Listen to the radio or people of authority for safety instructions.
3. Prepare emergency supplies like flashlights, candles, matches, and first aid kit.
4. Stock some food and water.
5. Evacuate if necessary.
6. Prepare masks for the nose and mouth. They are to be used in case of an ashfall or
volcanic smog.

During a Volcanic Eruption

1. Stay indoors.
2. Cover your nose with a mask or damp cloth when volcanic ash or dust is present in the air.
3. Keep your food and water covered.
4. Stay away from low places. Rocks, lava, and mudflows are likely to flow towards low-lying
areas.
5. Stay in the evacuation center. Avoid going back to your house while the volcano is erupting.
After a Volcanic Eruption

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1. After the eruption, do not go back home right away. Wait for instructions on when it is safe
to return home.
2. Avoid crossing a bridge when lahar flows under it.
3. Remove ash from your roofs.
4. Check if your drinking water is clear and if the electrical wirings at home are intact and safe.

Let’s Check!
List some safety tips to protect yourself against the harmful effects of earthquakes and
volcanic eruptions.

Let’s Apply It!

Make an evacuation plan. Draw a simple map of your home or school. Mark the exits and
trace a path that can reach the exits at the shortest possible time.

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