Earthquake Tips

Tips when earthquake happens

1. EARTHQUAKE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

a. The keys are:

• Understand what an earthquake is.
• Ensure that the structure of your house and its location makeit safe from the dangers caused by an earthquake (eg; landslides).
• Reevaluate and renovate housing structures to prevent or help reduce earthquake damage.

b. Know your environment, both where you live and work

• Pay attention to the location of doors, lifts and emergency exits in buildings so you will know the quickest and safest exit if an earthquake occurs.
• Learn first aid.
• Learn how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Note important numbers to be contacted in the case of an emergency.

c. Routine preparation at home and at the office

• Make sure all equipment (cupboards, cabinets and other furniture, etc) is properly attached to walls (using nails or rope) to prevent them from falling in the event of an earthquake.
• Store all flammable materials in a secure box to prevent fires.
• Always turn off the water, gas and electricity whenever they are not in use.

d. Most injuries and fatalities in the event of an earthquake are caused by falling materials

• Keep things in order; heavy materials should be stored close to the ground where possible.
• Ensure that hanging items (eg; ceiling lights) are securely fastened.

e. Useful emergency equipment that should be prepared:

• Emergency box for medicines.
• Emergency lamps or flashlights.
• A radio.
• Food supplies and drinking water.

2. IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE

a. If you are inside a building

• Protect yourself from falling walls by hiding under a table or desk.
• Move to the safest place away from shaking furniture and walls.
• Get out of the building if possible.

b. If you are outside the building or in an open area

• Move away from buildings, electricity posts and trees etc.
• Pay attention to the ground, be aware of ground surface cracks.

c. If you are driving a vehicle

• Turn the vehicle off, get out and move away from it in case a fire is sparked.
• Pay attention to the ground, be aware of ground surface cracks.

d. If you live near the ocean or coastal area, go as far inland as possible, in case a tsunami occurs

e. If you live in a mountainous region stay away from areas that are prone to landslides

3. AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE HAS OCCURRED

a. If you are inside a building

• Exit from the building as soon as possible.
• Avoid using escalators and lifts, it is better to use the stairs.
• Check if anybody is injured and give first aid.
• Call and ask for help if you or someone else is badly injured.

b. Check your surroundings

• Check for fires.
• Check for gas leaks.
• Check electrical short circuits.
• Make sure you turn off the electricity, put out fires etc.

c. Do not enter any building after an earthquake has occurred, as it could be dangerous.

d. Do not walk near damaged buildings.

e. Keep yourself informed with updated information on the earthquake from the radio for possible aftershocks.

f. If possible, help related institutions measure the level ofdestruction by participating in surveys on the earthquake.

(Source:www.bmg.go.id) (**)