Are You Earthquake-Proof? Sharing Some Sensible Steps to Safety

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Natural disasters happen all over the world and this can cause devastation to our lives and properties in which we live. We all know that natural disasters are caused by nature and we cannot do anything to prevent it from hitting us. But, we can learn about its causes and the things we need to know to be more prepared when such disasters come.

Earthquake is one type of a natural disaster. According to Wikipedia, earthquake is the result of a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves. The movements of the plates in the earth’s crust cause them. These plates do not always move smoothly and can get stuck, causing a build-up of pressure. It is when this pressure is released that an earthquake occurs. In turn, an earthquake under the water can also cause a tsunami, as the quake causes great waves by pushing large volumes of water to the surface.

According to Earthquake Country Alliance, there are seven simple steps that we need to follow for us to be safer. They made a simple step-by-step guideline on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. But before we accomplish our goal of being safe, we need to start with the things to do to be prepared even before an earthquake hit.

Step 1 – Secure your space by identifying hazards and securing moveable items. 

Step 2 – Plan to be safe by creating a disaster plan and planning on how to communicate during emergency.

 Step 3 – Organize disaster supplies in convenient locations.

Step 4 – Minimize financial hardships by organizing important documents, strengthening your property, and considering insurance.

During an earthquake, there are these two important steps to be done to respond to emergencies and survive..

Step 5 – Drop, Cover, and Hold On when the Earth shakes.

Step 6 – Improve safety after earthquakes by evacuating if necessary, helping the injured, and preventing further injuries or damage.

After the immediate threat of the earthquake has passed, this is the step that needs to be done in order to recover from the trauma and everything that the earthquake made us experience..

Step 7 – Reconnect and Restore. Restore daily life by reconnecting with others, repairing damage, and rebuilding community.

Humans should admit that we are responsible for some disasters that Mother Nature is giving us. Human activities are the one that is harming our Earth. As an effect, we experience tragedies, calamities, or disasters which may harm us even more, or worst can lead to death. So, this is the best time to ask ourselves. “Am I taking care of Mother Earth?” If the answer is no, it’s our time to shine and let mother Earth feel that we care as much as she cares for each of us.

Pictures from : http://www.usgs.gov/solutions/hazards_13may05.html
http://smscolorado.net/natural-disasters/
http://earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps/
http://www.teensforplanetearth.org/photo/earth-in-our-hands