After an earthquake, follow these essential steps to ensure safety and minimize further risks:
- Expect aftershocks and be prepared to drop, cover, and hold on if they occur, as aftershocks can cause additional damage
- Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid if necessary. Avoid moving seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger
- Assess your surroundings for hazards :
- Inspect your home or workplace for structural damage. If the building seems unsafe, evacuate using stairs, not elevators
* Look for gas leaks by smell or sound; if you detect gas, open windows, leave immediately, and shut off the gas supply if possible. Contact the gas company to restore service
* Check for electrical damage such as sparks or frayed wires and turn off electricity if needed
* Be cautious of fallen power lines, broken water or sewage lines, and spilled hazardous materials
- Extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so , as fires are a common hazard after earthquakes
- Listen to battery-operated radios or other reliable sources for emergency updates and instructions. Avoid overloading phone lines; use phones only for emergencies
- Stay away from damaged areas and do not enter unsafe buildings until authorities declare them safe
- Help those who need special assistance , including infants, elderly, disabled persons, and pets. Confine pets to prevent them from running away or getting injured
- If you are trapped , try to signal rescuers by banging on pipes or walls or sending text messages instead of shouting
- Avoid driving unless necessary to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Be aware that roads, bridges, and overpasses may be damaged or blocked
- Prepare for possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas by moving to higher ground immediately after shaking stops and staying away from the beach
- Wear protective clothing during cleanup and avoid heavy lifting or exposure to mold and debris, especially if you have respiratory conditions
By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and others while waiting for emergency services to arrive and restore normalcy
