Earthquake Safety Preparation
guide
Before an earthquake...
It's good to make sure you have the following items in your house: fire extinguisher, first aid kit, battery powered radio, a flashlight and extra batteries. This way you can use the fire extinguisher in case the earthquake damages something leading it to start a fire. The first aid kit is crucial because if the earthquake is of a high magnitude and a lot of damage is done you or people around you might get injured. Also a battery powered radio will keep you updated and the flashlight will help you in case the earthquake causes severe damage in your house. Extra batteries can be used for the radio and the flashlight.
A good thing to do is make up a plan of where to meet with your family after an earthquake. This way you can find your family much easier.
FIRST AID KIT
Very important so that in case of a big earthquake you and people around you can be healthy at all times.
FLASHLIGHT
Used if either the earthquake takes place at nighttime, there is a lot of dust around and the flashlight makes it easier to see, or just for general better vision if severe damage is done.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Needed to stop a fire immediately before any damage is done.
- FIRST AID
- HOW TO TURN OFF GAS, WATER AND ELECTRICITY
- THE EARTHQUAKE PLAN AT YOUR SCHOOL OR WORKPLACE ...In case of an emergency.
During an earthquake...
During an earthquake, the first thing you have to do is stay calm. If you are inside a building during the earthquake make sure to stay inside and if you are outside during the earthquake, also make sure to stay outside. If you are indoors, the best thing to do is crawl under heavy furniture. You could also stand against a doorway or a wall in the centre of a building but never near a window or an outside door.
If you are outdoors, make sure to stay away from power lines, buildings or anything that has a danger of falling on you.
If you are in a car, stay inside of it until the shaking stops. Don't forget not to use elevators because they will get stuck.
After an Earthquake...
When the shaking has finally finished, look around you and check for injuries. Check yourself and everyone around you. Provide first aid to anyone who is in need of it. Turn on the radio in order to be updated and make sure to stay out of all damaged buildings. Be careful around glass (that is why you shouldn't stand next to a window during an earthquake). Also be careful of chimneys and stay away from damaged areas and beaches because there can be a tsunami after an earthquake. Wherever you are make sure you follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
It is very important to check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. If you smell gas, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities.