Back

how to prepare now in order to protect yourself during an earthquake

Viewing page version #8
(Restore this version) 

Modified: 13 April 2018, 5:43 PM   User: Franca Sormani  → FS

Greece

Estonia

Italy

Depending on when and how they were designed, built, and furnished, existing school buildings may have weaknesses that make them more vulnerable to earthquakes. Check with your local experts to find out whether, and for how long, your schools have been subject to building codes containing seismic design provisions.

It is also important to know whether and for how long local seismic code provisions have addressed nonstructural building components ( light fixtures, suspended ceilings, windows, partitions). Nonstructural seismic weaknesses can prove particularly dangerous, costly, and disruptive in schools.

Have an earthquake readiness plan.

Safety training for staff and earthquake curricula for students should emphasize safe places to "drop, cover, and hold on" during earthquake shaking and safe locations where people can rendezvous when the shaking has stopped and it is safe and advisable to evacuate.

Periodic earthquake drills should be held to give students and staff opportunities to practice what they have learned and condition themselves to react spontaneously and safely when the first jolt or shaking is felt.

Build Disaster Resilience in the Community With their capacity to inform, empower, and motivate the citizens of tomorrow, schools have unique opportunities to broaden popular awareness and understanding of earthquake hazards and of how to reduce the risks that these hazards pose for individuals, families, organizations, and schools.

Portugal

BUILDING THE BUILDING IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Never panic. 2. Locks, clasps, keys, etc. stay away from objects. 3. Don't go out on the balcony. 4. Don't jump from balconies or Windows. 5. Do not use elevators.

OUTSIDE OF BUILDING DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Stay outside. 2. Move away from the energy lines, other buildings, poles, trees and walls. 3. Be prepared for the dangers that come from the surrounding area by digging in the open terrain. 4. Get away from the sea. 5. Be careful with the chimney, glass break and plaster that can fall from the building.

IN THE VEHICLE IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE.

1. Wait for the shaking to pass. Do not use roads, bridges, and ramps that are damaged by earthquakes. 2. Move away from normal traffic, trees, poles and power lines as far as possible. However, after the shaking stops go to the open areas. 3. If the vehicle is in residential areas or is not in a safe place, stop the vehicle; leave the vehicle by leaving the ignition key on and go to the open areas.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE ON THE SUBWAY OR OTHER PUBLIC TRANSPORT VEHICLE

1. Do not get off the subway or train unless necessary. You may be subject to electric shock or damage by another train. 2. Hold the hanger, railing or any place in the train. 3. Follow the instructions provided by the metro or train personnel.

UNDER THE RUBBLE

1. Don't light a match and a lighter. 2. Do not move and do not remove dust. 3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or clothing. 4. Try to hit pipes or walls to report your location to search and rescue teams and whistle. Use screaming as a last resort. Because shouting can cause you to swallow dangerous amounts of dust.

IF YOU ARE AT WORK DURING THE EARTHQUAKE

Stay under a sturdy table or furniture and stay away from Windows. If you are in a multi-storey building, protect yourself by hiding under a solid furniture or leaning against a column. Evacuate the building following the orders of the responsible. When evacuating the building, use Mer divans instead of elevators. However, please note that the stairs may also be damaged.

IF YOU ARE AT SCHOOL DURING THE EARTHQUAKE

Get under a queue and stay away from the windows facing your back. If you are in the playground or garden, stay away from buildings and walls that can be demolished. If you are in a moving school car, do not move until the driver stops in a suitable place and do not try to get out of the car until the jolt has passed.

IF YOU ARE IN PUBLIC PLACES SUCH AS THE PRAYER PLACE,GYM,CONFERENCE ROOM DURING THE EARTHQUAKE

Escape from the bottom of hanging objects such as domes, large ceilings and chandeliers without panicking and take refuge in side spaces or wall edges. Leave the building from the nearest and safe exit doors before the shock passes.Please note that panic attacks can be as dangerous as an earthquake.

Reunion

If you live in area with sysmic activity , think about taking some precautions

Find the points of stopping the gas,water and electricity Fix down appliances,and heavy furniture so they aren't projeted or reversed. Study the opportunity to assess the vulnerability diagnostic of your building and, maybe how to make it stronger Take the correct action with your phone on emergency situation

Romania

Turkey