Earthquake safety tips: Follow these things to keep yourself safe

Earthquake News Today: Earth is a living planet and faults sliding and volcanoes erupting are something very common. Hundreds of earthquakes, one of the most disastrous natural disasters, are recorded every day. While there is no way to predict which earthquake can be destructive in nature, there are certain things that we all can do to be prepared for it and protect ourselves. It is very important for each one of us to know the do's and don'ts when an earthquake hits. 

Here are some Do’s & Don’ts suggested by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) when earthquakes hit:

Earthquake safety tips: If indoors

Drop to the ground and take cover. For this, you can get under a sturdy table or any other piece of furniture. Hold it tightly until the shaking stops. 

In case there is nothing, just cover your face and head with your arms. The best place for this is an inside corner of the building.

Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, (such as lighting fixtures or furniture).

If you are in bed when the earthquake strikes, just stay there. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. 

Stay inside the house until the tremors stop. This is important for people living in highrises. It is safe to go outside only when the shaking stops. According to research, most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.

Earthquake safety tips: If outdoors

Stay where you are. However, stay away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires.

If you are in an open space, it is always better to stay there until the shaking stops. The most dangerous places in such situations are directly outside buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects.

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Earthquake safety tips: If in a moving vehicle

Stop the vehicle away from buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. 

Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. One must avoid taking bridges or ramps in such situations. 

Earthquake safety tips: If trapped under debris

Do not light a match.

Do not move about or kick up dust.

Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.

Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.