Earthquake safety: 9 things to do during and after quake

Earthquakes are just too common these days. What can a person do against such a natural disaster, which wields damage to epic proportions? Seems like people can’t survive it, right?

WRONG. Earthquakes are a difficult situation to tackle, but you can escape without injury or hurting yourself much if you implement a couple of safety procedures. Humans still are vulnerable to natural disasters and calamities however, we can take steps to minimize the damages. Just today, an earthquake jolted India, Afghanistan and Pakistan which was recorded at 7.7 magnitude on the Richter scale. Here are a couple of steps which you can use to hopefully escape unharmed and unhurt, when an earthquake strikes

What to do during an earthquake 

Here’s what you do when the tremors hit you and you feel the ground beneath you shake:-

1. Take cover underneath a table or heavy item

If it’s a mild earthquake, throw yourself down on the floor. Most likely the building won’t collapse but items such as heavy furniture or the ceiling fan could come crashing down. In this case, it is always advised to throw yourself on the ground and obtain cover underneath a table or heavy piece of furniture. Protection first!

2. Do not use the elevator! 

By any means necessary! Elevators are the worst passages you can take when an earthquake strikes. The main reason being, if it tends to get worse, th elevator will shut down. Then truly, will you be trapped! Take the stairs quickly and avoid the lifts, at all costs!

3. Stay away from the kitchen

Kitchens can be dangerous places, owing to gas stoves. A small crash and gas leakage could result in the whole house going up in flames. During an earthquake, you do NOT want that to happen! Make a run for the exit door and avoid stopping by the kitchen for anything at all!

4. If you live near the ocean

It’s best to take care to your car and flee to an area that is far away from the sea! Yes, earthquakes are often associated with tsunamis, which are caused by the ground’s convulsions. If a tsunami strikes and God forbid you’re nearby, an earthquake would be the least of your worries!

5. Be at a safe location

What could be a safe location? When you are far away from buildings, flyovers and bridges. Ensure it’s just you and the open sky above your head. That way, the shaking ground won’t be able to do much damage.

What to do when an earthquake has taken place?

Okay, now comes the important part. What to do when an earthquake has taken place?

1. Expect aftershocks

Yup, expect ’em. Aftershocks can also be deadly after an earthquake has taken place hence return to your households but stay vigilant.

2. Turn on the radio or listen to the news, any way you can

Yes, this is important due to the fact that you need to be aware of the situation at hand. If there is a tsunami warning or any such evacuation orders of the government, radio or communication devices are the only way for you to connect with the authorities or others.

3. At a school or any other place of work

 

If you’re in a school or somewhere else, always make sure that you listen to those who are in a commanding position such as teachers, instructors, principal or councillors.

4. If stuck beneath the rubble

I know this might be one of the most mundane and cliched tips ever, but stay calm! Only a calm brain is able to think and adapt to survive. If trapped, wait for the authorities to remove the debris and rubble and set you free. You can whistle or throw an object around to pinpoint your location. Stay near edible items, so as to survive for a longer duration.

So here’s how you can avoid getting injured or being helpless when an earthquake strikes. Make sure you practice the above steps stay safe and secure. Remember, as humans we cannot guarantee we’ll survive a natural disaster. However, we can stack the odds a little bit in our favour.