Earthquake preparedness
Photo: Munir uz Zaman / Driknews
It is still impossible to predict where and when an earthquake will occur. It is a must that the general people of our country become aware of exactly what to do before and during an earthquake. Here are some of the things the experts had to say - 1. Before an earthquake: Repair any defective electrical wiring or leaky gas connections. Locate a safe cover such as a sturdy table, bed or cot where you can take shelter. Repair any deep cracks in ceiling or foundation. Store a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, some extra batteries, some matches, emergency food and water and some cash as 'on hand disaster supplies'. Educate young family members and other community members to get prepared. 2. During an earthquake, if indoors: Drop to the ground, take cover by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. If there isn't a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building. Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall. 3. If outdoors: Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. 4. If in a moving vehicle: Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges, or ramps. 5. If trapped under debris: Do not light a match. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or a piece of cloth. Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust. 6. After an earthquake: Check for gas leaks, electrical line damage or sewage or water line damage. If gas lines are damaged, open the windows and doors or move away from the house. If the electric lines are also damaged, turn off the supply using the main fuse box. Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the latest emergency information. Stay away from damaged areas and help injured or trapped persons but do not move seriously injured persons unless it is emergency. Call for help. Enquiry number of the Fire Brigade in Bangladesh is 199 and telephone number of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief is 7161595. These instructions and more are published in the official website of Federal Emergency Management Agency and most of them are appropriate for all the countries of the world. We must prepare ourselves for this unpredictable natural disaster and believe in heart that Allah helps them who help themselves.
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