Preparing for the Survival of an Earthquake

Every year, the United States Geological Survey records about 20,000 earthquakes or about 50 earthquakes a day. On the average, 134 of which have magnitudes between 6 to 6.9 while magnitudes 7 to 7.9 and 8 and higher and having average annual episodes of 15 and 1, respectively.

Earthquakes, the trembling of the earth's surface, can be a devastating phenomenon depending on some factors such as its magnitude, duration and other environmental hazards around us. And despite having the best and latest technology, it is sad to say that there is still no proven way of predicting an earthquake. Because of its unpredictability, the best weapon that people have against this natural force of nature is to prepare for it.

The fact is an earthquake itself is not the real cause of deaths. Most of the time, fatalities are the result of secondary factors such as collapsed buildings, falling objects, shattered glass, fire and so on.

Therefore, one of the first things to consider when readying for such event is assessing the surrounding environment. Information, such as the strength of the buildings and the placement of some things around the house such as chemicals or heavy objects, are vital.

When planning ahead, it is important for each family member to know what to do and where to go when an earthquake happens. It also necessary to keep an emergency kit consisting of non-perishable foods such as canned goods, clean drinking water, flashlights, medicines, first aid kit, blankets, batteries and battery operated radio.

Another crucial consideration is to check all the flammable chemicals at home and make sure that these items are placed on low-lying cabinets and that they do not easily tumble and catch fire.

During an earthquake, it is most important to remember to try not to panic so that you will be able to think clearly on what to do. When the earth starts to shake, remember to practice "DUCK, COVER AND HOLD". This means to lower the head, cover it with the arms and hide under a sturdy table or desk and hold on to it. If there is no furniture, try to move into an open area such as hallways or stay near the house posts or walls and stay away from stairs, windows, high cabinets, appliances and heavy furniture. If you happen to be outdoors, stay outside and just remember to move away from buildings, trees or any possible falling objects.

Keep in mind to stay calm as possible during the shaking and stay in that position until the trembling stops and then check to see if anyone is hurt or if there is fire. Move carefully from your position and always use stairs when going down.

Strong earthquakes are extremely serious phenomena that can be devastating and horrifying. But instead of just being afraid, what we can do is to empower ourselves by educating ourselves and preparing so that we know what to do during these devastating events.