By Walter Reade Ph. D.
Learning to keep safe during and after an earthquake is the single more important thing you can do to maximize your chances of surviving an event unscathed. More people are killed and injured by panic, falling objects, fires, mudslides, and floods than by the actual earthquake itself. Learning to be able to safely navigate these hazards will go a long way in keeping you injury free should you find yourself caught in an earthquake.
During an earthquake the first thing you want to remember is the importance of keeping calm. Thinking through the consequences of your actions will prevent you from doing anything that will put you at undue risk for harm. You should immediately stop what you're doing, drop to the ground, find appropriate cover, and hold onto something sturdy.
If you happen to be indoors during an earthquake, you want to stay indoors. Find a heavy table or desk for cover. If one is not available, stay in an archway or next to a sturdy wall. Make sure you stay away from windows and all glass, and avoid elevators, stairwells, and doors that can swing shut causing injury.
If you are outdoors during an earthquake, stay outdoors. Move away from building and anything that may provide a falling hazard such as power lines, large trees or signs, or satellite dishes. If you happen to be in a crowded area during the event, do not push or rush. Slowly make your way to the safest area that you can reach in an orderly manner.
Learning and remembering these few simple guidelines can help you keep safe during an earthquake. If you can keep calm and use common sense, you have a great chance of avoiding any serious injury to yourself.
During an earthquake the first thing you want to remember is the importance of keeping calm. Thinking through the consequences of your actions will prevent you from doing anything that will put you at undue risk for harm. You should immediately stop what you're doing, drop to the ground, find appropriate cover, and hold onto something sturdy.
If you happen to be indoors during an earthquake, you want to stay indoors. Find a heavy table or desk for cover. If one is not available, stay in an archway or next to a sturdy wall. Make sure you stay away from windows and all glass, and avoid elevators, stairwells, and doors that can swing shut causing injury.
If you are outdoors during an earthquake, stay outdoors. Move away from building and anything that may provide a falling hazard such as power lines, large trees or signs, or satellite dishes. If you happen to be in a crowded area during the event, do not push or rush. Slowly make your way to the safest area that you can reach in an orderly manner.
Learning and remembering these few simple guidelines can help you keep safe during an earthquake. If you can keep calm and use common sense, you have a great chance of avoiding any serious injury to yourself.
Walter enjoys learning and writing about health-related subjects. He's also a Web 2.0 and Social Media junkie. Check out his latest website on Cashmere for Men including a page for a Cashmere Men Overcoat.
Christchurch Quake Map
Christchurch Quake Map
