Preparing For An Earthquake
In the Shanxi Province of China struck an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 in 1556. According to historical accounts, city walls, temples, government buildings and houses all crumbled, and more than 830,000 people were killed. A scholar named Qin Keda, who survived the quake gave advice on what to do during an earthquake, "At the very beginning of the earthquake, people indoors should not go out immediately," he recommended. "Just crouch down and wait for chances. Even if the nest is collapsed, some eggs in it may still be kept intact".
Another part of preparing for an earthquake is educating the public. The USGS and other government agencies have produced several brochures explaining the processes involved in an earthquake and giving instructions on how to prepare your house for a possible earthquake, as well as what to do when a quake hits.
In Japan, schoolkids are being taught to go head-first under the desk and cling to table legs until the quake is over. If they are in the playground, they are told to rush to the centre of any open space to avoid being hit by falling debris.
The local fire department also takes groups of children into earthquake simulation machines so that they may get to experience what it is like to be in an earthquake and get them familiar with one. Schools with two storeys or more have evacuation chutes in which children can slide down to safety.
Another part of preparing for an earthquake is educating the public. The USGS and other government agencies have produced several brochures explaining the processes involved in an earthquake and giving instructions on how to prepare your house for a possible earthquake, as well as what to do when a quake hits.
- Water, food, and clean air are mandatory during an earthquake. Make sure you have enough of these basic needs (around four days worth of supply) in order to survive an earthquake and its secondary hazards.
- Have a basic emergency supply kit available at all times, including medications and infant formula. You should also have a pair of closed-toed shoes such as flats or sneakers within reach of your bed to use in case you walk over debris and broken glass. You should also have a portable battery operated radio, torch and new spare batteries.
- Check that your insurance covers earthquake damage
- Plan together where you and your family will meet if separated by an earthquake
- Learn about the safest area in your home if an earthquake strikes
- Keep a list of emergency phone numbers for police, ] fire, ambulance and gas, power and water suppliers handy
- Seek expert advice about the structure strength of your building
- Make sure chairs and beds are clear of hanging items such as ceiling fans, pot plants, paintings and mirrors
- Store easily broken, heavy items and hazardous liquids, such as pesticides, cleaning fluids and paint on the bottom shelves of cupboards
- Fasten shelves securely to walls.
- Do not hang heavy objects over beds, sofas, or any place you may be seated.
- Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks.
- Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations.
- Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall.
- Strong shoes, gumboots, leather gloves and overalls
- A change of clothes, toiletry and sanitary supplies
- Tent or tarpaulin, pillows and blankets (woollen and thermal)
- Mobile phone and charger
- Strong plastic bags (for clothing, valuables, documents, and photos)
- Spare car and house keys
- Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover and hold on.
In Japan, schoolkids are being taught to go head-first under the desk and cling to table legs until the quake is over. If they are in the playground, they are told to rush to the centre of any open space to avoid being hit by falling debris.
The local fire department also takes groups of children into earthquake simulation machines so that they may get to experience what it is like to be in an earthquake and get them familiar with one. Schools with two storeys or more have evacuation chutes in which children can slide down to safety.
During An Earthquake
• Drop to the ground on your hands and knees, find cover and hold on to any sturdy shelter until the shaking stops
• If you're indoors stay there to avoid falling debris outside and shelter under a sturdy table.
• Stay clear of windows, chimneys and items hanging overhead including fans and other heavy items
If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
• In a building, stay clear of windows and outer walls. Shelter under a desk. Don't use lifts as there's a risk you'll become trapped
• If outside, be aware of falling debris and stay clear of buildings, overhead structures, walls, bridges, power lines and trees
• If you're in a car, stay inside and stop in an open area until the shaking stops. Be aware and avoid stopping of damaged roads, fallen power lines, landslides, damaged highways and bridges.
• If you're indoors stay there to avoid falling debris outside and shelter under a sturdy table.
• Stay clear of windows, chimneys and items hanging overhead including fans and other heavy items
If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
• In a building, stay clear of windows and outer walls. Shelter under a desk. Don't use lifts as there's a risk you'll become trapped
• If outside, be aware of falling debris and stay clear of buildings, overhead structures, walls, bridges, power lines and trees
• If you're in a car, stay inside and stop in an open area until the shaking stops. Be aware and avoid stopping of damaged roads, fallen power lines, landslides, damaged highways and bridges.
After An Earthquake
- Be aware of hazards
- Check for injuries and apply first aid. Don't move anyone with serious injuries unless they're in immediate danger
- In your home, turn off electricity and water. Check for damaged wiring and check for fuel leaks. Don't light matches
- Check for broken water, sewerage or electrical mains
- Try to avoid using your phone immediately to avoid network congestion unless there's a life threatening situation. Call 000.
- Be aware that there may be aftershocks. Assess your home or building for cracks in the walls, chimneys or roof damage and evacuate if necessary.
- Don't waste food or water because supply may be interrupted
- Avoid driving unless it's an emergency to keep the streets clear for emergency services. Don't go sightseeing or enter damaged buildings
- Stay calm and be of assistance to others if possible
- If you're trapped under debris, do not light a match, do not move around, cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing, tap on a wall so rescuers can locate you. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
- Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the latest emergency information.
People can escape tsunamis by moving to higher ground or far inland after ground shaking stops.
For assistance in Australia, call The State Emergency Service at 132 500 or 000 if it's life threatening.