woensdag, april 24, 2002

Voor de zekerheid: What to do in an earthquake

WHEN THE SHAKING BEGINS

Drop, take cover, and hold on. Move only a short distance to a nearby safe place. Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you’re sure it’s safe to go outside. Stay away from windows, chimneys, and shelves containing heavy objects.
If you’re in bed, hold on and stay there, and protect your head and body with a pillow and blankets.
If you’re outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings trees and power lines. Drop to the ground.
If you are in a car, slow down and drive to a clear place (as above). Stay in the car until the shaking stops.
If you are in a lift, stop it at the nearest floor and get out.
Do not look for your pets until the shaking stops.

WHEN THE SHAKING STOPS

Protect yourself from further danger by putting on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes, and work gloves.
Check those around you and offer help if necessary.
Put out small fires and eliminate fire hazards. Evacuate the building if you are unable to control the fire. Turn off the gas if you think it’s leaking.
Listen to the radio for instructions from Civil Defence. Some people may need to be evacuated.
After a big earthquake expect aftershocks - they can go on for weeks or even months. Each time you feel one, drop, take cover, and hold on.
Check your home or workplace for damage. Get everyone out if the building is unsafe.
Don’t go sightseeing – you’ll add to the congestion and hamper relief efforts.
Don’t touch downed power lines – treat all power lines as alive.

IF A TSUNAMI THREATENS

Be prepared to evacuate. Listen to your radio for instructions.
Leave the area immediately if a strong earthquake strikes and you are close to a beach or near a river.
Go at least 1 kilometre inland or 35 metres above sea level
Take your disaster survival kit and any important documents with you
Tsunamis sometimes ‘draw up’ water before they come inland. If you see the water suddenly retreat (after an earthquake), it is probably a tsunami. Leave the area immediately.
DO NOT go to a beach or river to watch the waves come in. If you see the tsunami, it will probably be too late to get to safety.

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