How to reduce earthquake risk

Reducing Earthquake Risk

— Avoid construction in areas highly vulnerable to earthquake effects.

— Implement earthquake-resistant building codes. Earthquake engineers attempt to design buildings that can absorb excess energy without collapsing.

Steel beams are usually the best reinforcement because they provide the capacity to sway, stretch or vibrate, instead of breaking.

— Use anchor bolts to connect your house to its foundation since these little bolts can prevent major damage to your home.

— Bolt or strap cupboards and bookcases to the wall and keep heavy objects on the lower shelves.

— Strap your water heater to a nearby wall using perforated steel bands.

Before an earthquake

— All family members should know how to turn off electricity, gas and water using safety valves and main switches.

— Family members should know basic First Aid steps.

— Emergency equipment such as battery-operated radios, fire extinguishers and a First Aid kit should be purchased.

— Always have non-perishable food items in stock.

During an earthquake

— Stay calm, do not panic, be alert.

— Always protect your head and face.

— If inside a building, stand in a strong doorway or get under a desk, table, or bed.

— Do not try to run out of the building as you may be injured by falling material.

— If outside and there are no signs of danger, stay there.

— Move away from windows, glass doors, heavy mirrors, pictures, bookcases, hanging plants and heavy objects.

— Do not use elevators.

— If driving, bring the vehicle to a stop. Do not stop on or under a bridge, near to electricity poles or close to buildings from which debris may fall.

After an earthquake

— Check for fires and gas leaks.

— Check utilities and switch them off if necessary.

— Check your house for serious damage and evacuate if the house seems likely to collapse.

— Be prepared for more earthquake tremors or aftershocks.

— Do not use elevators.

— Turn on a transistor radio for emergency bulletins.

— Do not light a match or turn on a light switch. Use a flashlight instead.

— Never touch fallen power lines.

— Do not use telephones except in extreme emergency.

— Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in danger of further injury.

— Do not go sightseeing! Keep the streets clear for the passage of emergency and rescue vehicles.