All About Earthquakes!
By Sayantika Roy...Mods 9-11A, 1/10/16
What Should You Do in Case of an Earthquake?
Earthquakes are not predictable....yet. Scientists are still working on predicting earthquakes. Here is some safety precautions to take in case of an earthquake.
Make sure you have a plan:
Always have an emergency plan in case of an earthquake. During an earthquake is not the best time to plan and look for different places to hide, so plan in advance, especially if you live in an earthquake zone.
During an Earthquake:
In case of an earthquake, follow these three complex steps:
Okay, maybe that wasn't very complex, but it is the truth. This is all you really need to know for what to do in case of an earthquake.
If You Are Inside:
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Stay inside. Do not go outside.
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Stay inside your room. Do not move to another room.
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Drop to your knees. You will not fall but you can still move.
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Move under a desk or a table that is sturdy and cover your head and nec and hold on to it.
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Don't stand in a doorway. There is a much greater chance of you getting injured.
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Move away from glass and large furniture that has a possibility of falling.
If You Are Outside:
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Stay outside and away from buildings, especially from windows.
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Stay away from gas and fuel lines, utility wires, and sinkholes.
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Get down low on the ground.
If You Are In the Car:
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Stop as quickly as you can
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Stay away from utility wires, overpasses, and overhead wires
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Tune to the radio
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After the earthquake stops, drive carefully and avoid collapsed objects and cracks in the pavement.
After an Earthquake:
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Remain calm. It is the Number One Rule.
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Check others and yourelf for injuries
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Check your water, gas, and electrical lines to see if there is any damage. If so, then turn off the valves. If you smell gas, then open all the doors and windows and leave immediately. Call the authorities
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Turn on the radio to hear any news. Try not to use your phone; save it for emergencies like the one mentioned above
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Don't stay in buildings that have damage. Stay out
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Wear boots or shoes that are sturdy so your feet do not get cut from glass or any other sharp objects
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If your location is near the ocean, stay away from the ocean or beaches; move inland and/or to a higher elevation in case of tsunamis
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Aftershocks may and probably will happen, so be expectant of them