Preparing For An Earthquake Essays Example

Preparing for an earthquake is an important training which everyone should be aware of in order to save lives. “Earthquakes are one of the most frightening natural calamities that carry destructive aftereffects” (James 31). It is a sudden movement of the earth that is being caused by unexpected release of strain that has being accumulated over a long period of time. This causes a sudden slipping or movement on the crust of the earth that is accompanied by a series of vibrations. There are also instances when aftershocks are felt later on also. Due to this there have been designed the instructions for acting in such kind of situations before, during and after an earthquake.
Before an earthquake, the best precautionary measure is to make sure there are available supplies. Some of the most important tools that might be helpful during earthquakes are: safety shoes, heavy gloves, a crowbar that can be used to open doors that are jammed, “a pipe wrench and a crescent wrench to be used to turn off gas and water tanks” (Ellen 13). Some of the items that can be helpful are paper plates, plastic spoons, forks, knives, medicines, extra blankets, sleeping beds, baby food, diapers, food for the pets. The main supplies that have to be stored are clothes, water, food, first-aid kit, flashlight with extra batteries, food in cans together with can opener. The supplies can be placed inside your car or under your bed. It is important to store water, calculating the intake for every adult for at least 3-4 days taking into consideration that the earthquake causes severe damage and open access to the sources of water may be completely closed.
After earthquakes happen, there are several important steps to follow in order to reduce damage and injury. There is such a preventive measure as putting latches on the cabinet doors to keep the dishes and kitchenware inside the cupboards. Another effective precaution may be following: find all potentially dangerous items in the house that the earthquake could turn into threat to health (such as vases, fishing tackle with sharp tips, interior decor items of unusual form that can cause harm to the human body), and place them away from the main locations of a person in the room (house in general). Better to put the breakable items such as vases, glasses and bottles inside the cabinet. “Bookcases, refrigerators and water heaters must be fixed on the walls” (Ellen 14). The heavy picture frames, mirrors and fixtures should not be hanging above beds or chairs where a person can spend time. These heavy objects should not be kept on high places where they can fall and injure a person. Flammable substances such as paints and cleaning fluids must be safely placed on lower shelves. Make regular check of gas connection, electrical appliances with cables, as they often become sources of ignition in aftershock conditions. The overhead light fixtures should be securely fastened on the ceiling to prevent them from falling. The beds must not be placed under the window or below the shelves where many books are contained to prevent injury. It is also advisable to choose a friend or a relative who is living in another state as the contact person of the family during times of natural disasters such as earthquakes. This will help the family send messages to each other in the event that the earthquake has affected the communication systems (Ellen 14). It is also advisable to conduct a few earthquake drills as part of the preparation of the whole family.
These steps must be followed while an earthquake happening if you are inside the home: 1) look for a cover under a strong table, bench or desk; 2) it is not recommended to run outside as it is more dangerous to be near outer walls of buildings. It is essential to maintain a presence of mind by keeping calm. In case any you are inside a tall building, never use the elevators and stay in safe place to avoid any falling objects. If possible, it is vital to cover the neck with a pillow or a book. It is important to remember to stay away from mirrors, windows or glasses. “If the person is inside a crowded place, remember not to rush towards the door” (Ellen 14).
If the earthquake takes place in schools, students should remember to get under the desk and to face away from the windows. If you are on the playgrounds, it is important to remember to keep away from the buildings. If inside a moving bus, it is necessary to stay on the designated seat until the driver stops the vehicle. Get in touch with teachers and adults if possible.
In the event that the earthquake happening while you are outside, is better to move to an open area away from power posts, trees or buildings. In case of inside, it is recommended to stay in the car until the shaking stops. It is important to remember not to park under an overpass. If the power lines fall on the car that you are driving, make sure that you do not touch anything made of metal inside the car and stay in awaiting for the rescue team.
After the earthquake, make sure to turn off the main valve of water and gas. Make sure that you do not use candles and matches or other open flames after an earthquake, as there is a high risk of gas contamination (because of gas pipeline destruction in result of earthquake) in the air around you, which may cause inflammation Close the switch at the main electric fuse box. It is best to follow these precautionary measures to avoid possible dangers that may arise during an earthquake.