Earthquakes often strike without warning. Even with advance alerts, predictions can only estimate the potential impact, leaving people vulnerable to unexpected injuries. How can you protect yourself when an earthquake hits? What should you do to survive after it occurs? And what preparations can be made in advance to avoid being caught off guard?
When disasters strike, humans can seem powerless. However, thorough preparation can minimize damage and ensure the safety of yourself and your family.
Pre-disaster preparations
The risk of shortages in food and water, loss of property, and injuries makes it crucial for people to prepare for earthquakes in advance. Peace of mind comes from being prepared.
Here’s how you can be ready:
Stock up on water
Storing bottled water is ideal. An individual needs approximately one-half gallon (1.5 liters) of water per day. It’s advisable to store enough water for 3-5 days in a cool, stable temperature environment and rotate stocks based on the water’s expiration date.
Food supplies
Stock up on foods with a long shelf life that don’t require refrigeration. Foods that can be eaten without cooking or with minimal preparation, such as crackers, cookies, canned goods, and instant noodles, are best. If there are children, diabetics, or others with special dietary needs in your home, consider these needs when stocking up. Store at least three days’ worth of food, properly packaged to prevent damage by pests. Store food in dry, dark, and cool places and regularly check and replace any expired items.
First-aid kit
Prepare a portable, fireproof, and waterproof first aid kit. Regularly check and replace expired medications. The kit should include hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, alcohol swabs, pain relievers, personal medications, diarrhea medication, and eye drops. Keep a first aid manual and other items like bandages, gauze, a thermometer, and a sewing kit.
Preparations for visiting earthquake-prone areas
When traveling, especially to areas known for seismic activity, it’s recommended to carry an “emergency evacuation pack” that includes items such as:
- Bottled water, food (instant noodles, crackers, cookies, canned food, chocolate)
- Copies of identification documents (ID card, health insurance card, etc.)
- Cash and first aid supplies
Immediate response during an earthquake
When an earthquake strikes, your immediate actions can be lifesaving:
- Take cover: Immediately drop to the ground, cover your head with your arms; if possible, hide under sturdy furniture, holding on until the shaking stops. If in bed, protect your head and neck with a pillow to prevent injuries in the dark.
- Stay away from falling hazards: Avoid windows, doors, chandeliers, or any objects that could fall or collapse. If outside, stay away from buildings, poles, and street lights.
- Do not move recklessly: If indoors, do not run outside until the shaking has stopped to avoid injury from falling debris.
Post-disaster food and water safety
Ensure survival by consuming simple emergency foods like crackers or cookies, instant noodles, and canned goods. To prevent nutritional deficiencies, consider taking multivitamin supplements weekly.
Disease prevention after an earthquake
Following an earthquake, aside from the disaster itself, attention must be paid to preventing disease spread:
- Consume perishable foods while fresh; avoid spoiled, moldy, or water-damaged foods.
- Drink from clean, bottled water sources and avoid untreated natural water sources.
- Ensure all eating utensils are clean and sterilized with boiling water before and after meals.
- Avoid severely affected areas and contact with deceased individuals to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Coping with psychological impacts
The emotional toll of a disaster can be as devastating as the physical impact. It’s common for survivors to experience fear, grief, anxiety, and even Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If you’re struggling emotionally, seek professional help and guidance from resources like the CDC or Ready.gov.
Takeaway: Building resilience in the face of adversity
The lessons of earthquake preparedness extend beyond just survival. They teach us about resilience — the ability to prepare for, withstand, and recover from difficult conditions. Remember, preparedness is not just about having the right supplies; it’s about cultivating a mindset that embraces planning, learning, and adapting. As we navigate the challenges of our world, let’s carry these lessons forward, building a foundation of resilience that can weather any storm.
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