Technology plays a crucial part in keeping the nation safe from man-made, natural, and technological disasters through a number of ways. The first is by providing us with the information we require to appreciate the world we live in, and this is especially essential in preventing natural disasters. Over the last three decades, scientific understanding of the intensity and distribution in time and space of real hazards and the technological means of confronting them have expanded greatly . Through technology, we can monitor almost every aspect of natural phenomenon, from plate movements in the ground to atmospheric pressure in the sky. With such remarkable technology available, we are not only able to foresee any impending natural disasters but we are also equipped with the technology and technique for resisting their forces , thereby considerably reducing the consequences of natural disasters.
Technology is also vital in the prevention of man-made disasters such as terrorist attacks. Countless of planned attacks around the world have been foiled as a result of the advancements of technology that have made it easier to detect and halt any intended damage to the nation. Through careful monitoring and screening, made possible by technology, the safety of the nation continues to increase. In the event that a man-made disaster does occur, technology has enabled rescue teams to react swiftly and effectively, thereby saving as many lives as possible.
Technological disasters such as building fires and plane crashes also pose a great risk to humanity and illustrate that sometimes, even technology can fail us . However, in most historical cases of technological disasters, human error played a notable role in the disaster. Therefore, technology can be used to prevent such disasters by leaving no loopholes for human error and ensuring that all systems are carefully managed and monitored. There are also emergency systems designed to reduce the impact of disasters such as a sprinkler system in the event of fire and car airbags in the event of a motor accident.
Works Cited
Rouhban, Badaoui. The Role of Science and Technology in Disaster Reduction. United Nations Strategy. Paris: United Nations, 2013. Document.
Scigliano, Eric. "Technology," 1 June 2002. MIT Technology Review. Document. 25 November 2014.
