Every earthquake comes with the potential for destruction and lots of casualties
Digital Desk: An Earthquake is a serious natural disaster that could strike anytime without any proper warning. Every earthquake comes with a potential for destruction and lots of casualties that can leave a deep impact on the people. that is why it is better to be aware of some very important things and tips during an earthquake if it ever hits your town or city.
Before the earthquake
We have all heard the phrase “precaution is better than a cure”, in the case of an earthquake or any natural disaster it is also very much recommended to stay aware even before the disaster strikes. Here are some tips to be aware of even before an earthquake strikes:
Create an emergency plan: Always have an emergency plan and backup plan that includes escape routes, meeting points, shelters, and emergency contacts so you can be prepared for the worst.
Prepare A Safety Kit: Collect and store things in advance like flashlights, water, a first aid kit, canned food, and some important documents for identity purposes.
Have spatial awareness: knowing your area and routes always helps in tricky situations. Having the spatial awareness of your surroundings can save you from potential dangers like falling debris and collapsing buildings at worst.
During the Earthquake
When the calamity strikes in your area and the ground starts shaking, you need to stay calm and follow certain steps that will increase the chances of your safety significantly-
1. When the ground starts to shake, look for your nearest cover under a big furniture like a table, chair, bed, or other interior that could cover your body temporarily from the potentially falling debris.
2. Drop and get low. Get hold of any object for a stable grip, like the legs of the furniture mentioned before.
3. Stay inside until the situation seems calm and stable; running around just after the calamity might get you hurt.
4. Stay away from windows and heavy objects near you that might get shaken and fall over your makeshift shelter.
5. If you are outside of the house and in the outdoors, then stay away from buildings and monuments, and run to a clear area devoid of any trees and structures.
Safety Tips For Kids
Children of a young age often need proper guidance during this type of situation, or else they can get hurt badly. There should be safety and basic drills for children to teach them the basics.
During the earthquake, make sure to reassure them of the situation, as they can get panicked in this type of situation more than adults.
Always make sure to teach the three magic words for safety, which are "Drop, Cover, Hold On."
If an earthquake is issued before it happens, make sure to give the children a backpack full of essentials and first aid kits in case they get separated.
Earthquake First Aid Tips
Injuries can happen during or after a quake Here’s some tips for what to do if someone gets injured during an earthquake:
• Check for Injuries: Prioritize unconscious or severely hurt individuals.
• Stop Bleeding: Apply pressure with a clean cloth.
• Avoid moving the Seriously Injured unless there is danger.
• Treat Minor Wounds: Clean cuts and use antiseptics.
• Watch for Shock: Keep the injured person warm and calm.
• Use Your First Aid Kit: Know where it is and how to use its contents.
Dos-
• If indoors: Drop, cover, and hold on. Get under a sturdy table or desk, or if none is available, get into an inside corner of a room and cover your head and neck.
• If outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines.
• If in a vehicle: Stop in a clear area, away from buildings, trees, and power lines, and set the parking brake. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
• If in bed: Stay in bed, protect your head with a pillow, and hold on.
• After the shaking stops, check for injuries, and provide first aid if needed. Check for damage to utilities (water, gas, and electricity) and shut them off if necessary.
• Be aware of aftershocks: These can occur after the main earthquake and may cause further damage.
Don’ts
• Don't run outside during the shaking. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when people try to move to a different location inside or exit a building.
• Don't stand in doorways. Doorways are not necessarily a safe place during an earthquake.
• Don't use elevators. They may shut down and become unsafe.
• Don't use matches or candles if there is a possibility of a gas leak.
• Don't spread rumours or panic. Stay calm and follow official instructions.
• Don't use the phone unless it is an emergency.
• Don't go near damaged buildings. Avoid them until they have been inspected by professionals.
• Don't go near beaches. Tsunamis can be a secondary effect of earthquakes.
Rather safe than sorry
It is always better to stay alert during an earthquake and make sure to follow the steps mentioned earlier to increase your chances of full safety, as the phrase says, “it's better to be safe than sorry”.
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