Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Preparing for An Earthquake – Six Steps to Survival During One

Many people who have studied history and earthquakes remember the 1906 San Francisco quake. For residents of this prosperous city, it was a defining moment in how people would live and continue to live their lives. Would they go to sleep and wake up? The reality is there and those citizens realize this.

It is the same for many countries and islands throughout the world who have felt strong earthquakes. For many, they were caught off guard, which makes the only earthquake experience worse. What are some of the places that experience these quakes? Japan, Indonesia, Philippines, Guam and even Mexico.

Residents in the city of San Francisco know that the day is coming when their city will fall victim to a catastrophic earthquake, which will turn the streets into rubble and possibly destroy the Golden Gate Bridge. If many know this, why would residents want to live in this city?

For residents who live in known earthquake regions, they live with the knowledge that any day could be the last day they live and they’re prepared for that possibility. These residents want to live like it is their last day on earth. The tragedy is always a possibility.

For earthquake prone residents, they choose places to live that are built to withstand a medium to strong earthquake. Engineers and city planners have built high rises and two more story buildings with this natural calamity in mind. It is all done to keep the city’s residents safe.

Technologist specialist Jason lives in an area of the city, which is likely to be destroyed by an earthquake: in the Marina area. Jason knows the risk to living in the Marina area and has taken steps to protect his property and himself. He has gallons and gallons of water stored up and handy.

Jason’s emergency kit is set aside that has several much-required items to survive after an earthquake. He has medicine and packets of food. There are extra batteries saved up along with flashlights and other things needed to ensure his survival.

Earthquake Preparation Tips

There are six tips to follow when a city or area for that matter is experiencing a strong earthquake. Following them can reduce the changes of getting seriously injured or killed by falling debris.

Tip One - No doubt, the first and most vital tip when experiencing an earthquake is to duck. When an earthquake is going on, things tend to topple over and tumble down.

Tip Two - Stay away from items that are heavy and cause injury should they fall over.

Tip Three - Find a study table to hide under. Again, with heavy falling objects, a table can protect a person from head injury.

Tip Four - Head to an open area away from trees, high rises and power lines when a table is unavailable. An open area such as this is a safe place to go to keep from getting injured by falling debris.

Tip Five - Never go outside or run around during an earthquake. With debris falling, injuries are likely should a person panic.

Tip Six – Stay inside your car should you be caught in it during a quake. The same goes for stores, malls, theaters and stadiums… never run! Get under the seat and wait for the shaking to stop and things to quit falling.

When is it most people are hurt or killed? When they fail to prepare for the disaster or panic while the ground is moving. Persons should always have a plan for earthquakes even if the area is not known for them. Plan for the inevitable and plan accordingly.

How can a person survive a devastating earthquake the area is having? By being prepared and staying calm. It is those who have not prepared for a worst-case situation that will become victims rather than the survivors.

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