
One of the most devastating consequences of strong earthquakes is the destruction of buildings and structures, the falling of debris and large trees, leading to injuries and even death. Where is the best place to take shelter during an earthquake to avoid injuries from collapses, falling furniture, electrocution from downed power lines, and fires? How can you increase your chances of survival?
What to do if you’re caught in an earthquake? Even with early warning systems, people who receive a phone alert only have a few seconds to prepare for the impending seismic event and find a safe haven. It’s best to know beforehand the locations that offer the greatest chance of survival.
Safe Zones in Buildings
If you are in a structurally sound building, do not attempt to leave. To know where to be during tremors, practice these shelter and hold techniques:
- Avoidwindows, hanging objects, or heavy furniture to avoid injuries from falling debris.
- Take shelter under a sturdy table or any strong surface until the tremors cease.
- Protectyour head, neck, and torso to shield yourself from falling objects.
- If you can’t hide under something sturdy, lie down or brace yourself against an interior wall.
- Wheelchair users should lock their wheels, protecting their head and neck.
Do not use elevators – power lines may be disrupted during an earthquake. If an elevator gets stuck between floors and suffers structural damage, the risk of collapse is significantly high.
The Triangle of Life
Improved building construction has significantly reduced the risk of collapse. But if you live or work in an older building that doesn’t appear stable and doesn’t meet seismic standards, contact the relevant authorities to learn about the safest places to shelter during an earthquake. Experts recommend the “triangle of life” method. This involves lying in a fetal position not under, but next to furniture. This increases your chances of being in a triangular “buffer zone” created by the furniture and the collapsed ceiling, protecting you from injury.
Most Dangerous Places in a Home
It is strictly recommended to avoid these potentially hazardous areas during an earthquake:
- Near windows or mirrors
- Next to heavy objects that could fall
- In doorways, where vibrations can jam doors and block escape routes
Experts consider the kitchen the most dangerous place. It typically has the most hanging objects and dishes in cabinets, which can fall from the first tremors and cause serious injuries in a strong earthquake.
Surviving an Earthquake in a Car
If an earthquake catches you in a car, follow these essential guidelines to stay safe:
- Park your car in a clear area, as far as possible from buildings, large trees, and power lines.
- Avoid bridges, overpasses, underpasses, and anything at high risk of collapse.
- Remain inside the car with your seatbelt fastened until the tremors and vibrations stop.
- Do not attempt to exit the vehicle if power lines have fallen on it. Call emergency services or wait for rescuers.
Similar actions should be taken if caught outdoors. Quickly find a location away from buildings and power lines where falling objects are less likely to hit you. Remain there until the earthquake stops. Be prepared for aftershocks and don’t rush to leave the safe zone immediately after the earthquake ends.
Surviving Being Trapped Under Debris
If you become trapped under debris, the most important things are an oxygen source and a water supply. Don’t panic; wait for help. You can attract rescuers by making noise. If you find someone pinned under rubble, do not attempt to help independently. When pressure is released from a compressed body part, blood circulation resumes. This releases a very dangerous chemical element – potassium – from the injured muscle tissue into the bloodstream. High concentrations of potassium can lead to cardiac arrest and death, even after rescue from rubble. In such cases, experts recommend immediately contacting emergency services. Qualified rescuers will administer a special serum to combat dehydration and reduce potassium levels in the blood.