Why Earthquake Disasters Happen, How to Prevent Them and What Should We Do to Be Prepared?

Earthquake is one of the disasters that cause the most loss of life and property in our country. Due to our geographical location, it is almost impossible to escape from earthquakes.

However, it is possible to minimize the effects of an earthquake by taking precautions. So what are the precautions that can be taken against earthquakes? What should be done to be prepared for an earthquake?

What is an Earthquake? How Does It Occur?

An earthquake is a sudden movement in the earth's crust that causes energy to envelop the earth. Earthquakes can occur for a variety of reasons, but are usually caused by the movement of fault lines in the earth's crust. This movement creates large waves of energy on the earth and shakes the earth. The intensity of the shaking determines the magnitude of the earthquake. Earthquakes can occur as a result of a combination of many factors such as unnatural water deposits, cracks in the earth's crust, human and volcanic activities.

Earthquake waves pose a great risk from the first moment they reach the earth's surface, causing loss of life and property. For this reason, preventive measures must be taken for people living in earthquake-prone areas. The measures taken should be aimed at minimizing the loss of life and property in earthquakes and similar disasters. Earthquake scientists can give an estimated time interval for when the rupture will occur in areas where rupture is expected.

Recommendation:What to Do Before, During and After an Earthquake

What are the Precautions Against Earthquakes?

• No building should be constructed close to areas where fault lines pass.
• Buildings that do not comply with earthquake regulations should be constructed.
• Earthquake insurance of existing buildings should be taken out.
• Buildings should be checked and their durability should be increased.
• Buildings should not be constructed in stream beds, steep slopes and valleys.
• Settlement areas should be carefully selected.

Earthquakes cannot be completely prevented, but it is possible to minimize the damage by taking precautions. Against the risk of a possible earthquake; structures should be strengthened, settlements should be planned, isolation should be provided and social awareness should be increased. In addition, it is very important to put important documents in the prepared earthquake bag in order to carry out the necessary procedures after the earthquake.

In conclusion, even if it is not possible to prevent an earthquake, its effects can be reduced by taking precautions. Therefore, by taking the above-mentioned precautions, you will prepare yourself and your loved ones against earthquakes.

What Should We Do to Be Prepared for an Earthquake?

1. Prepare an emergency kit with supplies you will need during and after an earthquake. This should include water, non-perishable food, medicines, flashlights, hygiene items and a portable charging battery.
2. Secure unfixed items to the wall or floor to prevent possible shaking in your home or workplace. Do not forget to check frequently.
3. Take training on what to do in an earthquake. Because it will be vitally important to know how to act during an earthquake without panicking and staying calm.
4. Draw up an emergency plan with your family members or friends. In this plan, identify your meeting places, communication channels, emergency contacts and how you will act. Review your plan periodically and make sure that everyone knows what to do.
5. Check whether your settlement is earthquake resistant. If it is not, get support for retrofitting work. Also make sure that windows and doors in the building are operable.

In conclusion, an earthquake is an uncontrollable disaster that can be caused by many factors. By taking the above-mentioned precautions, you can be prepared for a possible tremor and keep yourself and your loved ones safe against both the physical and emotional effects of an earthquake.

For more information on what to do during a possible earthquake, please see our content on What to Do Before, During and After an Earthquake.