What to do in an earthquake, Mary McCombie Stand against an interior wall if you are indoors. If possible, climb under a sturdy desk or table and hold onto it to provide protection against falling debris. Stay clear of windows, mirrors and any nearby appliances or cabinets. If you are in bed when an earthquake happens, stay there and cover your head with your pillows. Never get in an elevator when an earthquake is happening. Cover your head and neck with your arms if you are in a crowded public place and stay calm. The exits are likely to be jammed, so stay clear of them. Keep as low to the ground as you can without being trampled, and wait out the quake to the best of your ability. Also have a fire extinguisher handy, After an Earthquake The first priority following an earthquake is to assess injuries. Treat yourself and anyone around you as best you can. This is why a first aid kit is so important in emergency situations. Check your appliances along with your gas and electrical lines for damage. Shut off the valves and breakers for anything that looks suspicious. Listen to the radio to get an assessment regarding the surrounding area. Wear sturdy footwear when moving around. There is a high probability of broken glass on the ground. Stay out of any damaged buildings, and stay clear of areas that have suffered earthquake damage. Once services to your area have been restored, have your home inspected for structural damage, especially if you have a chimney. Chimneys are often weakened during earthquakes and are at a higher risk of collapse. Earthquakes are unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared. Have a plan in place mentally in case an earthquake happens, and make sure your home is insured and as protected as you can make it. There is no way to prevent an earthquake from happening or from eliminating the risk of property damage, but you can reduce your personal risks. This gives you greater peace of mind while keeping your family safer in the process.
Posted on: Sat, 29 Mar 2014 16:30:38 +0000
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