What to do during and after an earthquake

Although earthquake is a calamity like other natural disasters, it’s almost impossible to forecast about it. Within moments it damages everything. It traumatizes people at massive scale. Thus, large number of people and assets are destructed.

In Bangladesh, massive earthquakes haven't occurred so far. And, earthquakes damages are also very low.

Experts and meteorologists are hinting fear of large scale earthquakes in near future. They also indicate being traumatized is solely responsible for earthquake damages. So it is necessary to understand dos and don’ts and awareness to escape earthquake consequences. And government and nongovernment institutions should take action in creating public awareness in this regard.

Basically, earthquake destroys multistorey buildings and thus people fall into the debris.

So, people should understand and be aware of the planned building houses importance.

You have to follow the building codes strictly.

For minimizing earthquake damages, safe gas and electricity lines are obligatory.

What to do during an earthquake

During an earthquake one should never panic. Keep patience. If you stay outside the home, never enter into it. If you live in a one storey building, try to leave the house immediately.

If you live in a multi storey building, then try to stay under table or desk covering your head with soft pillow or blanket.

Leave the places where glass boxes kept. Avoid using lift. Never try to jump through windows. Keep distance from high hill.

Make sure to stop the gas and electricity lines during earthquake.

If you are in school, take position under the tables protecting your head with bag. If you are in outside, stay open space far from trees, buildings and electricity lines.

If you are in garment factory, hospital, shopping mall or cinema hall, don’t hurry to leave through narrow exits points.

If you succumbed under debris, don’t panic. Try to protect from dust by using your cloths.

Basically several aftershocks followed main quake.

So, try to leave building where you stay within few minutes after first quake felt. If you stay inside any car, don’t hurry to leave or panic.

Everyone should have a battery-powered radio, mineral water, and first aid kits in their homes to escape the deadly consequences of an earthquake.

To keep your phone active after the quake, you should have a power bank and charging alternatives. After the quake, pharmacies and stationeries might be closed.

So, try to stock up on the necessary goods.

What to do after an earthquake

If your home is livable, then return home. Check the gas and electricity lines carefully before using them.

Keep updated for the alert from the meteorological department about aftershocks.

Don’t walk on foot or in normal sandals on the debris.

If your home is severely damaged, never stay there. Don’t use the candles; use flashlights instead.

Before switching on the electric line, talk to the electricity office or electrician.