Which option correctly lists the four main strategies to reduce impacts of tectonic hazards?

• A. Monitoring, prediction, protection, planning
• B. Monitoring, evacuation, protection, planning
• C. Warning, evacuation, protection, planning
• D. Monitoring, prediction, shelter, planning

Answer: (A)

The four broad ways to reduce the impacts of tectonic hazards are monitoring, prediction, protection, and planning. Monitoring involves collecting data from sensors and observations to understand fault behavior and detect changes that might precede hazards. Prediction uses that information to estimate when and where a quake might occur and to issue warnings when possible. Protection refers to reinforcing structures and infrastructure—like improved building design, retrofitting, and resilient layouts—to withstand shaking. Planning covers preparedness activities such as hazard mapping, land-use decisions, emergency response planning, public education, and drills.

This combination is most effective because it pairs data gathering (monitoring) with the ability to forecast and warn (prediction), while simultaneously reducing vulnerability (protection) and organizing a proactive response (planning). The other options mix in specific responses like evacuation or shelter, which are important during events but don’t alone represent the full set of strategies to reduce long-term impacts. They also either replace prediction with warning or omit protective planning, making them less comprehensive.