Summary
Highlights
Take personal documents, warm clothes, and essential medication with you. Walk in the middle of the road, watching out for falling objects. Avoid smoking or lighting candles due to explosion risks. Do not touch fallen power lines or make unnecessary phone calls to keep lines clear. School children are looked after at school; do not try to pick them up. Block access to damaged buildings. Stay away from coastal areas due to tsunami risks. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or handicapped.
An earthquake is a series of ground vibrations that can cause serious damage. During an earthquake, do not run away due to falling objects. If inside, take shelter under sturdy furniture or in a wall corner, staying away from windows and mirrors, and covering your head and neck.
If you are outside, stay away from buildings and anything that could collapse. If driving, pull over to a safe distance from potential falling hazards and remain inside your car until the earthquake subsides.
After an earthquake, be wary of aftershocks. Listen to the radio for safety instructions. Close water and gas inlet taps, and open windows and doors in case of a gas leak. If there's a gas leak, leave the building immediately. Do not use elevators; instead, head to an open space or a designated meeting point.
Familiarize yourself with potential natural catastrophes and safeguard measures in your country. Arrange a family meeting point. Prioritize earthquake-resistant housing. Select shelter areas, properly store dangerous items to prevent falling, and secure devices and heavy furniture. Prepare an emergency disaster kit and a first aid kit.