It was 1:20 in the afternoon today, November 14, 2012 that a 5.8 magnitude earthquake hits the Visayas region. The epicenter was in the municipality of Cuayan, Negros Occidental. Other neighboring areas also experienced the earthquake and its aftershocks. As of now, we cannot predict the time when an earthquake will strike but we can be safe if we know the basics of what to do when an earthquake strikes. Here's a list of what to do when it comes.
If
you are indoors when earthquake starts:
- STAY CALM and ensure that you are not in danger. If you are indoors, stay inside
- “DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON.” Find the nearest strong table or desk, drop to the floor against an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.
- Stay away from windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances and cabinets that contain heavy objects.
- Do not try to run out of the building during strong shaking.
- If you are downtown, it is much safer to remain inside a building after an earthquake unless there is a fire or gas leak.
- If you are in your bedroom, crawl under the bed and cover your head with your pillow.
- Avoid using the elevators. Just use the stairs.
- Turn off the electricity.
- If you are in a wheelchair, lock the wheels and cover your head with your arms.
If
you are outdoors when earthquake starts:
- STAY CALM and ensure that you are not in danger. If you are outdoors, stay outside.
- Move to an open and clear area if you can safely walk. Stay away from buildings, trees and power lines or anything that might fall.
- If you're in a car, stop and pull the car to the side of the road and stay inside the car until the earthquake stops. Avoid stopping under elevated hazards.
- If you are on the beach, move or run to a higher ground as soon as possible. An earthquake can cause a tsunami.
Once
the earthquake stops:
- Check yourself and the people around you for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.
- Check around you for dangerous conditions, such as fires or leaked gas, downed power lines, structure damage, water damage. If any are damaged, leave immediately and report it to the authorities as soon as possible.
- Put out small fires immediately if you have fire extinguishers and know how to use them.
- Stay away from damaged areas, damaged buildings, beaches and broken glass or debris.
- Follow the emergency plan or instructions if you are in school or at your workplace.
- Expect a lot of aftershocks.
If you have a suggestion, feel free to comment so that I can add it up to the list.
Photo by : earthquakesandplates.wordpress.com
