Instead of being afraid and all panicky, we should make sure we are ready should an earthquake happen. And for those who are located at fault line or near the said fault line make sure to leave the place as soon as possible, it is much better to avoid as early as possible than to wait for the disaster to happen.
Here are some earthquake safety tips to remember.
What to do – Before the Earthquake
- Arrange your home for safety: Store heavy objects on lower shelves and store breakable objects in cabinets with latched doors. Don't hang heavy mirrors or pictures above where people frequently sit or sleep.
- Store flammable liquids away from potential ignition sources.
- Stock up on emergency supplies. These include: battery operated radio (and extra batteries), flashlights (and extra batteries), first aid kit, bottled water, two weeks food and medical supplies, blankets, cooking fuel, tools needed to turn off your gas, water and electric utilities.
- Learn what to do during an earthquake (see During the Earthquake)
- If outdoors, move to an open area where falling objects are unlikely to strike you.
- If driving, slow down smoothly and stop on the side of the road. Avoid stopping on or under bridges and overpasses, or under power lines, trees and large signs.
- If indoors, quickly move to a safe location in the room such as under a strong desk, a strong table, or along an interior wall. The goal is to protect yourself from falling objects and be located near the structural strong points of the room.
- Check for injuries and attend to people who may need help.
- If the power is out, unplug appliances to prevent possible damage when the power is turned back on.
- If you smell or hear a gas leak, get everyone outside and open windows and doors. If you can do it safely, turn off the gas at the meter.
- If the building is badly damaged, evacuate immediately.
