What to Do Before, During and After an Earthquake

When we look at the earthquake map of our country, we are all aware that earthquakes are inevitable.

When we look at the earthquake map of our country, we are all aware that earthquakes are inevitable. Of course, it is not possible to eliminate the earthquake disaster that has recently been experienced all over our country, but it is possible to minimize possible damages with the measures to be taken. Well, do we know what we should do in the face of such a natural event? What we should do before, during and after an earthquake;

What are the precautions to be taken before an earthquake?

What to do before an earthquake is as follows:

1. Check whether your building is earthquake resistant.
2. Closets and similar items that are likely to fall should be fixed to the wall.
3. A first aid kit should be prepared for all family members.
4. Prepare a life-sustaining earthquake kit.
5. Be careful not to create an earthquake bag that is too heavy.
6. Family members should be informed about what to do in case of an earthquake.
7. Do not neglect to check electricity, water and natural gas systems.
8. Fire extinguisher must be provided and checked
9. Carriages should not be placed next to cabinets.
10. Closet doors must be fitted with locks.
11. A contact person from outside the region should be identified to reach the family in case of an emergency and be given a copy of important documents such as identity cards.

What to do during an earthquake?

What to do if you are indoors during an earthquake is as follows:

1. Never panic during an earthquake.
2. Stay away from unstabilized objects that are likely to fall.
3. A life triangle should be created under or next to the stabilized objects.
4. Find a firm place and KNEEL on your knees, turn your back to the window and CLOSE to protect your head, CLOSE until the shaking stops.
5. Put both hands under your head and stay in this position until the shaking is over.
6. Phone calls should not be used except to report an emergency.
7. If you are near the exit, leave the building immediately.
8. If you are not near the building exit, wait in a safe area until the shaking is over.
9. Never run on stairs or elevators.
10. Take care not to be in the window or balcony.

What to do if you are in an open area at the time of an earthquake:

1. Stay away from buildings and walls.
2. Be cautious against debris that may fall from buildings.
3. If you are by the sea, move away immediately.
4. Be prepared for aftershocks.
5. Be alert to hazards from underground lines.

If you are in a vehicle during an earthquake:

1. If you are driving, pull over to the right and stop.
2. If the vehicle is safe, close the windows and wait inside.
3. If it is unsafe, it must be stopped and abandoned immediately.
4. If you are on the subway or train during the tremor, do not get off unless absolutely necessary.
5. Get hold of the handles or anywhere else until the shaking is over and follow the instructions.

What to do after an earthquake?

What to do after an earthquake is as follows:

1. First, make sure you are safe.
2. Check if there is someone around you who needs help.
3. If you are indoors, close the gas valves, open the windows and leave the building.
4. Make sure to take your earthquake kit with you and go to the gathering point in your neighborhood.
5. Keep your phone calls as short as possible.
6. Communications should be provided via internet or short message (sms).
7. Do not attempt to risk your life before search and rescue teams arrive.
8. Damaged buildings should never be entered against the risk of an aftershock.
9. Only flashlights should be used as a light source.
10. Objects such as matches and lighters that can cause explosions should never be used.
11. When someone is found trapped under the rubble, the rubble should not be abandoned before the search and rescue team arrives.
12. Once the teams have arrived, they should not be prevented from intervening, but should be assisted only when asked to do so.
13. Objects that can cause explosions after an earthquake should never be used.