Monday, February 6, 2012

What To Do During and After an Earthquake?


An Earthquake with a 6.9 magnitude strucked in the Visayas. The epicenter was found between the islands of Negros and Cebu. People in cebu were panicking, running towards high places because of the fear that a Tsunami Would come. (more info about what happened in Cebu)

Panicking is really not a friend during a phenomena  like this.

Now, what to do when an earthquake would come?
What are the things we should think?
And what to do after it?


During an Earthquake

If you are inside a building:

-Drop your knees to the ground. If possible, go under a sturdy table or any furniture
that can cover you. Hold on to the  leg of the table until the shakes will stop.
If you don't have a table near you, cover your neck and head with your arms and crouch in
the corner of the building.

-Stay away from objects that may fall, like glasses, windows, and wall decors.

-Don't do out of the building if it's still shaking.

-Do Not use elevators.


If you are outside a building:

-Move away from buildings. Falling objects may hit you if you will go near it.
if possible, be in an open place.

If in a vehicle:

You may not notice that there is an earthquake that is happening because you are also in motion.

-Stop immediately and stay on the car. Avoid stopping near buildings, overpass, and structures
that falling objects can fall from.

-Drive only if the shake has stopped. avoid roads and buildings that are damaged from the earthquake.

If trapped under Debris:

This is very dangerous. Limited air is your enemy here.

-Do not light a match nor use something that sparks.

-Do not kick up the dust.

-Cover your mouth with an handkerchief or clothing.

-Tap on pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you.


After an Earthquake

-Look around to make sure it is safe, then exit the building.

-Always bare on your mind that there will always be aftershocks.

-Help injured people. Give first and if possible. If you don't know how to give first aid,
call for help.

-Listen to news updates on the earthquake.

-Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas.
 These are also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called "tidal waves").
When local authorities issue a tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way
.
-Stay away from the beach.

-Use your telephones and cellular phones only for emergency calls.

-Stay away from damaged areas. Unless being authorized.

-Be careful when driving after an earthquake.

-Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves.

-Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches,
gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately.
Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.

-Inspect utilities:

    Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor's home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.

   Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.

    Check for sewage and water lines damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.

And Best weapon that we have.
 PRAYER, we always need God in our sides.



So keep in mind. Be calm, follow procedures, and Pray.

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