No one is ready for any environmental disaster. We cannot predict when it can happen but we can be prepared when an earthquake strikes.
In this blog, I’ll be sharing to everyone some advice on what you should do which I have learned thru research.
What Should I Do Before, During, And After An Earthquake?
What to Do BEFORE an Earthquake:
Prepare a Survival bag– family & individual (to be discussed in the next blog)
Make sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Know how to render first aid assistance to family members.
Know where the main switch of electricity at home is located and how to turn off the gas range and water.
Before an earthquake occurs, secure items that could fall and cause injuries (e.g., bookshelves, mirrors, light fixtures).
Repair parts of the house that are infested with termites.
Look around places where you spend time. Identify safe places such as under a sturdy piece of furniture or against an interior wall in your home, office or school.
Practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On!” To react quickly you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake.
Make up a plan on how to communicate with family members by making a family emergency communication plan. (to be discussed in the next blog)
Check if your house is earthquake resistant as per Philippine Building Code Earthquake. (take this quiz from Rappler: http://bit.ly/2mpcofo; if unsure better yet consult a licensed Civil Engineer/ an Architect)
Get a house insurance that could cover/ assist you when these calamities happen.
Learn the earthquake plan at your school or workplace.
What to Do DURING an Earthquake:
If you are inside a building:
STAY CALM! Stay where you are until the shaking stops. Do not run outside if you’re inside a building. Do not get in a doorway as this does not provide protection from falling or flying objects, and you may not be able to remain standing.
Shield yourself from falling debris by ducking under a table, or other similar fixture. Move away from glass windows.
Hold on to any sturdy covering so you can move with it until the shaking stops.
Don’t light anything especially when a gas tank is leaking.
Take the stairs instead of using the elevator.
If you’re in a crowded public place (e.g. movie house), avoid panicking and don’t rush for the exit. Contain yourself, stay low and make sure to avoid structures that may topple by covering your head and neck with your hands and arms.
If you are outside when you feel the shaking:
If you are outdoors when the shaking starts, move away from buildings, streetlights, trees and electric posts. “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”.
If you are in a moving vehicle when you feel the shaking:
If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly and safely as possible and stay in the vehicle.Park the car away if possible from buildings, trees, streetlights, electric posts, and overpasses. Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads or ramps that the earthquake may have damaged.
If you are near the ocean:
Be aware that tsunamis are associated with large earthquakes. Get to high ground.
If you are If you’re in a mountainous area:
Beware of the potential for landslides.
What to do AFTER an Earthquake:
Check yourself and your companions for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.
Check for fire or fire hazards. If there’s evidence of damage to electrical wiring, shut off the power at the control box. If you smell gas, shut off the main gas valve. Open all the windows and doors if possible or leave immediately, and report it to the authorities.
Check for cracks and damage to the roof and foundation of your home.
Wear shoes and boots, or anything that would protect your feet from broken pieces of glass that may cause wounds.
Check electric posts. Report to the authority if a problem occurs.
Avoid staying by the seashore. Tsunami may strike anytime after an earthquake.
Prepare yourself for aftershocks. Avoid dangerous infrastructures as these may topple and collapse anytime.
Follow the emergency plan of your local government.
If you’re at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
If you wish to vacate your area, leave a note that would specify your destination.
Bring your Survival Bag.
Don’t use phones unless it’s an emergency.
Once safe, monitor local news reports via battery operated radio.
Knowing what to do and to prepare will give you a peace of mind that can help save your own life, your family and you can also share your learnings with others.
Please stay tuned for my next topic on what you should prepare in your survival bag and how to make a family emergency communication plan.
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