Earthquakes Happen In An Instant
Earthquakes Happen in An Instant
To be prepared for an earthquake is very difficult because there are no early warning systems.
Basically following the three steps for all survival situation provides you with good earthquake preparedness and a better chance of survival
Three Steps To Survival
1. Make a plan
2. Build a kit
3. Get involved
When making a plan involve the whole family. At work your plan should include the occ health and safety procedures.
Make up a go bag for each family member and make sure each has an I.D. tag. You may not be at home when an emergency strikes so keep some additional supplies in your car and at work, considering what you would need for your immediate safety.
Get involved in local services because they provide invaluable training. E.G the local Bush fire brigade, Red Cross or the SES are a few good ons to get involved with.
Some precautions if caught in an Earthquake.
If you find yourself indoors and the windows and things on the shelves start shaking:
1. “Drop To The Floor, Cover Up, and Hold On.” If you are near a strong table or desk get under it. If not, drop to the floor against the wall and using your arms cover your head and neck.
2. Move away from windows,anything hanging, mirrors and glass,high furniture, big appliances and cabinets filled with heavy objects.
3. Stay inside during powerful shaking.
4.Stay inside an undamaged buildingafter a quake. Unless there is a sasfety issue like a fire a gas leak. Glass from high rise buildings can tyravel great distances once caught by the wind.5.If you’re in bed, stay there and put the pillow over your head.
6.Stay well away from elevators and use stairs to exit the building.
7.If you use a wheelchair, put the wheel locks on and find someway of covering your head.
If you find yourself outdoors when the shaking starts
1. Move to a clear area after surveying the area and deciding it is safe to walk. Steer clear of power lines, buildings and trees.
2. If you’re driving, pull to the side of the road safely and stop. Stay away from overhead hazards
3. If you find yourself near the ocean when the earthquake hits. Go to higher ground the quake may cause a tsunami.
* See to the people around you for injuries; offer first aid if you know how. Please do not move seriously injured people unless they’re in immediate danger.
* Search around you for dangerous conditions,like fires, fallen power lines and building damage.
* If you know how to use fire extinguishers , douse small fires immediately.
* Turn off the gas at the mains only if you smell gas.
* Look at your phones to make sure they haven’t shaken off the hook and are engaging a line.
* Inspect your home for damage.
If you’re trapped in debris:
* Move as least as possible so that you avoid kicking up dust. If you can, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
* Use a key or something more substantial to tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers looking for you can hear where you are. Use a whistle if you happen to have one.
* Shout only as a last option.
For more detailed survival techniques for all situations with the coming events predicted in 2012 click Earthquake
