When you feel violent shaking of the ground, there is no better way to react but flee. An earthquake cannot be predicted until this very day. That is why you could only prepare for it the best way you can. It hits without any form of warning at all.
The world has many fault lines that could all be triggered unexpectedly, especially since the land masses of our planet are constantly shifting. It is always best to be prepared. Here are the top safety and survival tips for earthquakes you should remember and follow:
Basic tips:
o Know and practice the drop, cover, and hold on with your household members.
o Don’t rely on doorways for protection.
o Find a sturdy table or bed, get under it, and hang on.
Be Red Cross ready:
o Produce an emergency preparedness kit.
o Keep informed about the risks of your community and its response plans.
o Create an evacuation plan for your household and pets.
o Download an emergency app.
o Educate your family about the Safe and Well website.
***Take note that shelters usually don’t provide water or food. When you arrive there, you are expected to have your own rations.
Stay where you are:
o If you are on the road:
• Keep yourself informed by keeping the radio on.
• Be aware of road hazards once you start driving again.
• Always be ready to stop in case an aftershock occurs.
• Pull over immediately, away from overpasses, poles, and power lines.
• Wait for the earthquake to stop from inside your vehicle.
o If you are in a structure:
• “Drop”—In case you’re indoors when an earthquake hits, stop what you’re doing and drop to the floor. If you are in bed, stay there, provided there are no objects around you that could fall on you. Dropping prevents you from being injured and allows you to move safely to a safe spot.
• “Cover”—Make sure you shield your body and head by moving under a sturdy piece of furniture. If you don’t have such a piece of furniture, lean against an interior wall as you protect your head with the use of your arms. Stay away from doors, glass windows, or anything that could shatter during an earthquake.
• “Hold on”—Grab hold of a large, stable item until the earthquake stops.
o If you are outside:
• Move away safely from dangerous elements such as powerlines and exterior walls.
• Stay close to the ground when you see a safe area and wait for the quake to stop.
Presence of mind is vital, especially during the earthquake. Together with your prudence and preparedness, you will surely survive this natural disaster.