Table of Contents
Introduction
Earthquakes are sudden, unpredictable, and can be devastating. It occurs when tectonic plates beneath the earth’s surface shift, releasing energy that causes the ground to shake, which we call the EARTHQUAKE. Nepal, which is nested in the heart of the Himalayas, is one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world. This is due to its location at the collision zone of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which continuously push against each other, creating pressure; as a result, Nepal has experienced devastating earthquakes throughout its history.
Some of the most devastating earthquakes in history occurred in 1255 A.D. (7.8 Magnitude), 1260 A.D. (7.1 Magnitude), 1408 A.D. (8.2 Magnitude), 1681 A.D. (8.0 Magnitude), 1810 A.D. (8.0 Magnitude), 1833 A.D. (8.0 Magnitude), 1934 A.D. (8.1 Magnitude), 1980 A.D. (6.1 Magnitude), 1988 A.D. (6.9 Magnitude), 2011 A.D. (6.9 Magnitude) and 2015 A.D. (7.8 Magnitude).
While earthquakes cannot be prevented, knowing how to respond can significantly reduce the risk of injury and death. Whether you live in an earthquake-prone area like Nepal or are visiting one, being prepared and awareness about earthquake safety is the key . This article provides essential tips on how to stay safe before, during, and after an earthquake.
BEFORE Earthquake: Focus on Preparedness
Preparedness is the most effective way to minimize the impact and save lives. Here is how we can be prepared:
Create an Emergency Plan
Discuss with the family and housemate what to do during the earthquake and assign roles, such as who will turn off the utilities and grab the emergency kit. Identify a safe spot in each room, such as under the sturdy furniture or against the interior wall, which should be away from the windows. Also, identify a safe place for meeting points and develop the evacuation route from your home to that safe place.
Preparing an Emergency Bag
Make an emergency bag that contains the essentials to survive, such as a water bottle along with the water (Minimum 3 liters), Dry foods, a flashlight with extra batteries, your medication, a first aid kit, important documents, some cash and whistle for help.
Secure the heavy items
Don’t leave heavy items on the shelves, they may fall and can cause injuries. Anchor the heavy furniture, cupboards, flower vessels, and other heavy appliances to the wall or on the floor. Keep your heavy, fragile, breakable items on the lower shelves to prevent them from falling.
DURING Earthquake: Stay Calm! And Protect Yourself
During an earthquake, if indoors, you should stay inside, if outdoors, you should stay outside. DO NOT PANIC. Panic and rushing may lead to injuries or even death.
Drop Cover and Hold On
If you are INDOORS, drop to your hand and knee, take cover under the sturdy piece of furniture (such as a table or desk), and hold on until the shaking stops. If there is no sturdy piece of furniture, crouch against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Remember, protecting your head during an earthquake is important because it is the most vulnerable part of your body.
Avoid Windows
Stay away from windows, mirrors, and glass that could shatter and fall on you.
Don’t Rush
Don’t run downstairs or run outside while the building is shaking or while there is a danger of falling and hitting yourself with the debris.
Do not use the Elevators
Use stairs rather than elevators to evacuate yourself outside after the shaking has stopped. Elevators may malfunction, trap you, or even fall, putting you at serious risk of injury.
If you are OUTSIDE
Go to the open space, away from the buildings, power lines, chimneys, walls, and any other things potential to fall on you.
If you are DRIVING
Pull over to a safe place away from buildings, power lines, or heavy traffic, avoiding bridges, trees, and light poles or signs. Stay inside your car until the shaking stops; after the shaking, resume driving cautiously and watch for damage on the pavement, fallen rocks, or bumps in the road.
If you are in the MOUNTAIN area
Watch landslides, fallen rocks, or any other loosened debris that could potentially injure you.
Don’t light the FLAMES
Avoid using matches, lighters, or any electrical devices until you’re sure there’s no gas leak to prevent fires or explosions. Remember, there is a high possibility of fire during an earthquake, so be prepared for this.
Remember to PROTECT yourself first during an Earthquake. Once you’re safe and sure you’re okay, then help others. Avoid giving any medical assistance that could harm the victim or put you in a risky situation. Instead, call for professional help immediately.
AFTER Earthquake
EVACUATE yourself to a safe place but avoid damaged buildings and unsafe areas.
Check for INJURIES of yourself and others. Provide first aid to others only if you’re professional, if not, CALL FOR HELP.
Be prepared for AFTER-SHOCKS.
Don’t use your PHONE until it’s an emergency: Use your phone only for medical and fire emergencies to avoid disrupting emergency lines.
Don’t EXPECT the emergency service right away: Emergency services may not be available right away after the earthquake.
By Kshitij Sharma
Program Manager
