What to Do During an Earthquake
What to Do During an Earthquake
98% of our country's land is under threat of earthquakes. This situation indicates that the majority of the population lives under the threat of earthquakes. In short, it is very important to take precautions before an earthquake and to know what to do and how to do it when an earthquake occurs. However, most people do not take precautions.
If You Are Indoors During an Earthquake:
Maintaining calmness during an earthquake is an important factor. Otherwise, a person can panic for a moment and put their life at risk. To avoid this situation and to learn what to do and how to do it, you should practice drills before an earthquake, acting as if an earthquake is actually happening. A survival triangle should be formed by finding a sturdy place such as under a table, chair, or behind a door. A survival triangle is briefly done as follows:
*Crouch on your knees in a safe place.
*Cover yourself, protecting your head and neck.
*Hold on to prevent falling during the shaking.
Your hands should firmly protect your head, or if available, an object like a book that can protect your head should be used. You should remain in that position until the earthquake shaking stops.
*Do not jump out of windows or balconies.
*Avoid using elevators.
*Do not use the phone except to report emergencies and disasters.
*Avoid touching light switches and do not light fires.
*Stay away from glass objects (windows, vases, etc.).
If You Are Outdoors During an Earthquake:
*Stay away from poles, trees, buildings, and the base of walls. Crouch on your knees in an open area and remain in that position until the earthquake ends.
*Stay away from places where landslides may occur, or where stones or rocks may fall.
*Avoid objects that may fall from buildings, such as broken glass.
*Stay as far away from the coast as possible.
If You Are Inside a Vehicle During an Earthquake:
*While in a safe location, stop without blocking the way of other vehicles. Keep the windows closed and remain in the vehicle with the key in the ignition until the earthquake ends. After the earthquake, drive away from the area.
*If you are inside a tunnel during an earthquake and are not close to the exit: stop the vehicle, position it on its side, and protect your head with your hands in a fetal position. A large object falling on the car will crush it. If the individual remains in the vehicle, they may be harmed along with the vehicle.
If You Are on Public Transportation:
*Do not try to get off the vehicle unless absolutely necessary. You could get an electric shock or another vehicle could hit you.
*Hold on to a sturdy object inside the vehicle until the earthquake effect ends, and try to follow the instructions given by the staff.
*Do not panic due to the density inside public transport, and try to calm down passengers who are panicking. Try to help passengers whose condition is worsening.
*After the shaking stops, analyze your own condition and that of those around you. If there are injured people, call 112 Emergency Services.
