Earthquakes can not be prevented, controlled or predicted with pin-point accuracy; however North-East State being in the high seismic zone, proper awareness and adoption of personal and community preparedness and mitigation measures can reduce the impact of disaster.
It is advisable to get trained in First Aids or be knowledgeable in First Aids. Earthquakes do not kill people but collapse of poorly constructed houses and buildings do.
1. Emergency household kits-
1. First Aid kits and essential medicine.
2. Water-store at least 3 (three) litres of water per person.
3. Protective clothings, rain-wear, bedding, sleeping bags.
4. Battery powered radio, flashlight with extra battery.
5. Special items for infants, elderly or disabled members.
6. Keep essentials-flashlight, study shoes by the bedside.
2. Building-
In multi-storeyed buildings, ensure if designed to resist earthquake forces. Sensitized fellow residents and the neighborhood about the damages and losses they may face in an earthquake. Need earthquake safety review of building including strengthening/retrofitting in consultation with competent/qualified structural engineer.
3. Inside the building/house-
1. Almirahs, cabinets, bookcases, other tall furniture to be bolted to the wall.
2. Installing strong latches on cupboards.
3. Strapping water heaters, etc to wall studs.
4. Open shelves to be provided with ledge and guardrails.
5. Picture frame, mirrors, etc to be fastened securely to the wall with closed screw-eye.
6. Secure equipments-computers, television, stereos, etc, by fastening to prevent sliding.
7. Secure water tanks, flower pots, etc, from falling.
4. What to do during an earthquake-
1. In structurally sound building- DROP, COVER, HOLD. Drop to the floor, take cover under desk or table and hold on to it, so that it (desk/table) does not move away. Wait till shaking stops.
2. In structural weak buildings- Take fastest and safest way out. [Do not use elevators but] take staircase to reach open space. Stay away from glass panes, power lines, posts, walls, false ceiling, parapet, falling flower pots, etc.
3. On a steep hillside- Move away in case of landslides, falling rocks, etc.
4. Driving a vehicle- Pull to the side of the road and stop, do not attempt to cross bridges/flyovers which may have been collapsed.
5. After an earthquake- Do’s Don’ts
1. Check for fire and if any control it. 1. Don’t enter partially damaged building. Aftershock can cause further damage and collapse of building.
2. Check water and electric lines for defect 2. Don’t use your telephones to call friends/relatives, only call for medical help.
3. Clean up household chemical spills, 3. Don’t use your car, two wheelers to drive toxic and inflammable materials around the damaged areas. Rescue and relief avoid any chain of unwanted events. operators need the road for mobility.
4. Gather information and necessary
Instructions from battery operated Radio/announcements.
5. Leave message if evacuating your residence.
6. Take earthquake survival kits with you
7. Survival kit should contain all necessary items for protection and comfort.
A DIPR Feature (Issued by Red Cross, Nagaland)
