Earthquakes are among the most destructive natural disasters and pose a constant threat that can strike at any moment. Acting appropriately without panicking during a strong earthquake is crucial for ensuring our own safety and saving the lives of others. By taking some simple precautions before and during an earthquake, we can minimize risks and protect ourselves more effectively from this natural disaster. In this article, we will share information on what to do during an earthquake and life-saving behaviors. Remember, having the right information and being prepared will help you make sensible decisions during an earthquake and protect your life.
What Should Be Done During an Earthquake?
Earthquakes are among the most destructive and dangerous natural disasters. They strike suddenly and can have a major impact on our lives. For this reason, knowing what to do during an earthquake is crucial. Let’s take a step-by-step look at what to do during an earthquake.
What Should Those Caught Inside a Building During an Earthquake Do?
People inside a building during an earthquake can stay safe by taking the right steps without panicking. Here’s what to do if you’re inside a building when an earthquake strikes:
Stay Calm: Panicking prevents you from making the right decisions. Stay calm and assess the situation.
Look for Safe Places: Move as close as possible to sturdy and durable objects such as tables, chairs, and cabinets. These objects can provide you with protection.
Protect Your Head: Use your hands or another object to shield your head. This will protect you from objects that might fall on your head.
Try to Stay Still: While the shaking continues, try to stay as still as possible. Trying to walk or run can increase the risk of falling.
Help Others Near You: Do your best to help the people around you. Reassure them and guide them to a safe place.
Locate Emergency Exits and Fire Extinguishers: After an earthquake, know where the emergency exits and fire extinguishers are located and be prepared to use them.
Use Communication Channels: During an earthquake, use your cell phones to let others know you are safe. If you cannot get a signal, call out to people around you so they can hear you. (1)
What Should Those Caught in an Open Area During an Earthquake Do?
If you are caught in an open area during an earthquake, you can keep yourself safe by following these steps:
Move to an Open and Safe Area: Move to an open area away from buildings, utility poles, or tall trees. Try to stay away from objects that might fall.
Get into a Safe Position: Stand up and spread your legs slightly to maintain your balance. If you are near a car or another sturdy object, hold on to it for protection.
Get to higher ground: If you are near the coast or a river, immediately move to higher ground. Be alert for the risk of a tsunami.
Stay Away from Unsafe Areas: Stay away from areas that pose a potential hazard, such as walls, glass windows, poles, and power lines.
Stay Alert After the Earthquake Stops: Stay alert even after the earthquake stops. There may be aftershocks, so stay in a safe place and wait for instructions from authorities. (1)
What Should Those Caught in a Car During an Earthquake Do?
Being inside a vehicle during an earthquake can be a cause for concern. Here’s what to do if you’re caught inside a vehicle during an earthquake:
Stay in Your Vehicle: If you are inside a vehicle when an earthquake strikes, it is usually the safest place to be. Stay inside the vehicle to avoid the risk of broken glass.
Move to a Safe Location While the Vehicle Is in Motion: If possible, pull the vehicle over to the side of the road properly to stop in a safe place. When parking, be careful not to hit other vehicles or objects.
Turn Off Your Car: During an earthquake, turn off your car to prevent dangerous gas leaks.
Keep Windows and Doors Closed: While the shaking continues, keep windows and doors closed. This can prevent objects inside the vehicle from injuring you. (2)
What Should Those Caught in Public Transportation Vehicles During an Earthquake Do?
If you are caught in an earthquake while on public transportation, you can follow these steps:
Hold On Tight to Where You Are Sitting: It is important to hold on tight to where you are sitting during an earthquake. Hold on firmly to chairs or armrests.
If You’re Standing, Maintain Your Balance: If you’re standing, spread your legs slightly to maintain your balance. Use the handholds next to you to stay balanced.
Don’t Panic: Panicking during an earthquake can cause other passengers to become anxious and lead to a loss of control. Stay calm and try to reassure the other passengers.
Follow the Driver’s Instructions: Carefully follow the driver’s instructions. In an emergency, follow the driver’s directions to help them bring the vehicle to a safe stop.
Use Emergency Equipment: Public transportation vehicles are typically equipped with emergency equipment. For example, keep yourself safe by using equipment such as fire extinguishers and emergency exit doors. (1)
What to Do When the Earthquake Stops
Once the earthquake has stopped, try to stay calm and carefully assess your surroundings. Instead of rushing to leave the building, wait a few seconds and check for any damage around you. If you decide to leave the building, be careful to avoid falling debris and other hazards. Avoid using the elevator; use the stairs instead.
Remember that aftershocks may occur after an earthquake, so continue to seek a safe area. There may be people trapped under the rubble, so assess the situation around you to notify emergency services. Check for any damage to power lines, gas lines, and water lines, and report any damage to the authorities. It is also important to obtain up-to-date information from reliable sources such as television, radio, or the internet. Actions taken after the earthquake has stopped are critical for ensuring personal safety and preparing for potential future hazards. We should not overlook the importance of urban renewal projects in minimizing damage from earthquakes.
In particular, significant projects related to this issue have been carried out in Kadıköy recently.
In addition to being one of Istanbul’s oldest and most densely populated neighborhoods, Kadıköy is also located in an area at risk of earthquakes. This makes urban renewal projects in Kadıköy particularly important. Urban renewal not only provides aesthetic and functional improvements but also makes buildings more earthquake-resistant, thereby helping to prevent loss of life and property in the event of an earthquake. Kadıköy’s urban renewal projects aim to enhance the seismic resilience of buildings and ensure the safety of residents while preserving the area’s historical and cultural character.
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