After recent events, many people (much like “Unprepared Ursula” above) have been left wondering “what should I do during an earthquake.” And the answer is The Red Cross can help: Be Prepared. Here are some valuable earthquake safety tips from a member of the Red Cross’ “Team Preparedness.”
Much of the damage caused by earthquakes is predictable and preventable. We must all work together in our communities to apply our knowledge to enact and enforce up-to-date building codes, retrofit older unsafe buildings, and avoid building in hazardous areas, such as those prone to landslides. We must also look for and eliminate hazardous at home, where our children spend their days, and where we work. And we must learn and practice what to do if an earthquake occurs.
If you are inside when the shaking starts, you should:
•Drop, cover, and hold on. If you are elderly or have a mobility impairment, remain where you are, bracing yourself in place
•If you are in bed, stay there, hold, and protect your head with a pillow. Stay away from windows. Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit. Be aware that fire alarm and sprinkler systems frequently go off in buildings during an earthquake, even if there is no fire. If you are in a coastal area, drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake and then move immediately to higher ground when the shaking stops.
If you are outdoors when the shaking starts, you should:
•Find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines.
•Drop to the ground and stay there until the shaking stops.
•If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location, stop and stay there with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
•If you are in a mountainous area or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rocks and other debris that could be loosened by the earthquake.
When the shaking stops, you should:
•Expect aftershocks.
•Check yourself for injuries and get first aid if necessary before helping injured or trapped persons.
•Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes, and work gloves.
•Look quickly for damage in and around your home and get everyone out if your home is unsafe.
•Listen to a portable, battery-operated radio or television.
•Check the telephones in your home or workplace.
•Look for and extinguish small fires.
•Clean up spilled medications, bleach, gasoline, or other flammable liquids.
•Open closet and cabinet doors cautiously.
•Help people who require special assistance.
•Watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines.
•Watch animals closely.
•Stay out of damaged buildings
•If you are away from home, return only when authorities say it is safe.
Kathrine
Kathrine Vigil is the AmeriCorps NPRC Response Member for the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter.