Science helps predict natural hazards like earthquakes by studying tectonic plate movement to determine areas of high seismic risk. Monitoring systems like SCIGN use GPS to track plate movement and help prevent earthquakes. Knowing the risk of hazards allows people to make decisions to protect themselves, such as taking shelter, while human development in hazardous areas can turn disasters into greater catastrophes if buildings are not constructed to withstand hazards. Preparing infrastructure and emergency responses can minimize the consequences of hazards when they do occur.