Survival Strategies for Earthquakes How to Stay Safe in Various Situations

In regions prone to earthquakes, having a plan is crucial for maintaining safety during such unpredictable events. Knowing what to do in various scenarios can significantly reduce the risk of injury and ensure a swift response to potential dangers. This post outlines practical strategies for different situations, so you can stay safe no matter where you are when the ground begins to shake.

If You’re in a Wheelchair

Lock, Cover and Hold on

If you find yourself in a wheelchair during an earthquake, your immediate response should be to Lock, Cover and Hold On.

Locking your wheels and remaining in place helps prevent your wheelchair from rolling. Protect your head and neck with your arms, a pillow, or a book that you have on hand. It's recommended to stay put until the shaking completely stops, as moving during an earthquake poses additional risks.

Earthquake can shake even if you are shopping!

If You’re in a Store

Shopping can be interrupted abruptly when an earthquake strikes. The best approach is to Immediately

Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

If you need to move to evade heavy items on high shelves, drop to the ground first and crawl only a short distance if necessary. Stay low to avoid debris that could fall around you. It's vital to keep calm and be aware of your surroundings, even while taking shelter.

If You’re in Bed

Standing up during a shake is not safe, best to stay in bed and cover your head and neck

Staying in bed during an earthquake is often a safer option than trying to escape.

Hold on and protect your head with a pillow or a blanket. This position shields you from potential flying objects and broken glass. Most injuries occur when people make the decision to run for cover. Bed can serve as a protective space if you remain still.

Near the Shore or on the Beach

Walking is preferred over driving, pay attention to your immediate surroundings

After the shaking stops, evacuating to high ground is essential, particularly if you are near the shore or on the beach.

Don’t wait for officials to issue a tsunami warning; instead, move quickly. Walking is preferred over driving to avoid traffic, debris, and other hazards. Your safety depends on immediate action, and awareness of your surroundings will assist in navigating to a safe location.

If You’re in a High-Rise

 Refrain from elevators, be prepared for sprinkler system activation Stay in place untiil shaking stops

Being in a high-rise building during an earthquake demands specific attention.

Immediately Drop, Cover, and Hold On. It is crucial to avoid windows and any potential hazards. Refrain from using elevators, and be prepared for possible activation of sprinkler systems or fire alarms. Stay in place until the shaking has stopped to ensure your safety.

If You’re in a Stadium or Theatre

Remain in your seat and bend over to protect your head and neck

Public gatherings in stadiums or theatres can pose unique challenges during earthquakes.

Remain in your seat and bend over to protect your head and neck. If space allows, you may also drop to the floor between rows. It's vital to remain seated until the shaking stops, and then exit slowly according to the directions provided by officials. Aftershocks may occur, so continue to practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

If You’re Driving

Stay inside your vehicle. In the event that a power line falls onto your car, remain inside until a trained professional assists you.

While behind the wheel, the first step is to pull over safely and stop.

Set your handbrake and steer clear of overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs, and other hazards. Staying inside the vehicle until the shaking is over is essential for your safety. In the event that a power line falls onto your car, remain inside until a trained professional assists you.

If You’re Outside

Move calmly to a clear area only if it is safe to do so. Avoid running

If you’re outside when an earthquake occurs, Immediately Drop, Cover and Hold On.

Move calmly to a clear area only if it is safe to do so. Avoid running near buildings, power lines, trees, signs, and vehicles that could pose an imminent threat. Staying low and taking cover will protect you from falling debris and other hazards.

When the Shaking Stops

Count to 60 before getting up, giving displaced objects a chance to settle

• Count to 60 before getting up, giving displaced objects a chance to settle

• Stay calm and move cautiously, checking for unstable objects and other hazards above and around you

• Be aware of the potential for aftershocks. Drop, Cover and Hold on every time you feel one

• Do not call 911 to report an earthquake. Only call 911 for serious injuries

• Follow all directions from local authorities

  and first responder personnel

• If your home is severely damaged and unsafe to stay in, take your grab-and-go bags and evacuate to somewhere safer

• If your home is damaged but safe to stay in, shelter-in-place and use your emergency kit

Conclusion

Being prepared for an earthquake can make all the difference in ensuring your safety in the face of such an unpredictable event. By understanding what to do in various circumstances—from being in a wheelchair to driving or sitting in a stadium—you can effectively protect yourself and those around you.

Staying informed and practicing these strategies is crucial to creating a safer environment in regions at risk, such as British Columbia. Whether you’re a professional, a parent, or a community leader, your awareness and proactive measures will contribute significantly to resilience against earthquakes.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and make sure you know what to do in an earthquake to secure your safety and that of your loved ones.