PRECAUTIONS FOR EARTHQUAKE

 

Precautions before an earthquake:

• Repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.

• Anchor overhead lighting fixtures to the ceiling.

• Fasten shelves securely to walls.

• Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

• Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.

• Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds, settees, and anywhere that people sit.

• Brace overhead light and fan fixtures.

• Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections.

• Secure water heaters, LPG cylinders etc., by strapping them to the walls or bolting to the floor.

• Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom shelves.

 

Identify Safe Locations

• Under strong dining table, bed

• Against an inside wall

• Away from where glass could shatter around windows, mirrors, pictures, or where heavy bookcases or other heavy furniture could fall over

• In the open, away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, flyovers and bridges

 

Emergency communication plan

• Exchange contact details amongst family and friends.

• Identify relative outside your town as a family contact for emergencies.

• Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.

• Identify a common meeting place for family post disaster.