By KS Correspondent
What are the Dos and Don’ts to keep yourself safe during an earthquake
Before an earthquake:
• Follow and advocate local safe building codes for earthquake-resistant construction.
• Follow and advocate upgrading poorly built structures.
• Make a plan and be ready for an emergency.
• Identify the medical centres, and firefighting stations and organize rescue mock drills for the society of your area.
• Know the electric and water shut-off locations in your house.
• Heavy objects, glasses, and cutlery should be kept on lower shelves.
• Flower pots should not be kept on the parapet.
During an earthquake:
• Keep calm and reassure others.
• During the event, the safest place is an open space, away from buildings.
• If you are indoors, take cover under a desk, table, bed, or doorways and against inside walls and staircase. Stay away from glass doors, glass panes, windows, or outside doors. Do not rush to go out of the building, to avoid the stampede.
• If you are outside, move away from buildings and utility wires.
• Once in the open, stay there till the vibrations stop.
• If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as possible and stay in the vehicle.
• Free all pets and domestic animals so that they can run outside.
• Do not use candles, matches, or other open flames. Put out all fires.
After an earthquake:
• Keep stock of drinking water, foodstuff, and first-aid equipment inaccessible place.
• Do not spread and believe rumors.
• Turn on your transistor or television to get the latest information/bulletins and aftershock warnings.
• Provide help to others and develop confidence.
• Attend to the injured persons and give them aid, whatever is possible, and also inform the hospital.
• Be prepared for aftershocks as these may strike.
• Close the valve of the kitchen gas stove, if it is on. If it is closed, do not open it. Do not use open flames.
• Do not operate electrical switches or appliances, if gas leaks are suspected.
• Check water pipes, electric panels, and fittings. If damaged, shut off the main valves. Do not touch PVE wires of electricity.
• If needed, open doors and cupboards carefully as objects may fall.
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