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>Hello Sohib EditorOnline. In this article, we are going to discuss the ways to prepare ourselves and our surroundings for an earthquake. Earthquakes can occur anytime, anywhere, and without warning, making it crucial to know how to keep ourselves safe. Indonesia has been prone to earthquakes, most recently the Lombok earthquake in 2018. Let’s get started learning about how we can minimize the impact of an earthquake.

What is an Earthquake?

Before we dive into the ways to prepare ourselves for an earthquake, let’s first understand what an earthquake is. An earthquake is the sudden shaking of the earth’s surface caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the earth. The severity of the earthquake depends on the magnitude and depth of the earthquake. For example, a magnitude 4.0 earthquake is considered light, while a magnitude 8.0 is considered a great earthquake.

Earthquakes can cause a lot of damage and destruction, including landslides, tsunamis, and building collapses. Therefore, it is essential to learn how to stay safe and prepared for an earthquake.

Preparing Your Home for an Earthquake

It is essential to prepare your home for an earthquake to prevent damages and ensure the safety of everyone inside. Here’s what you need to do if you want to prepare your home for an earthquake:

1. Secure Heavy Furniture and Objects

Heavy furniture and objects can cause severe damage or injuries if they fall during an earthquake. To prevent this, secure heavy furniture and objects to the wall using braces or straps. Heavy items such as televisions, bookshelves, and refrigerators should be secured.

2. Reinforce Your Home’s Foundation

Reinforcing your home’s foundation can prevent it from collapsing during an earthquake. Hire a professional to evaluate your home’s foundation and recommend the necessary reinforcements.

3. Create an Emergency Kit

During an earthquake, you might need to evacuate your home or stay inside for an extended period. Therefore, it is crucial to have an emergency kit ready. The kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, and other essentials such as flashlights, batteries, and a radio.

4. Learn How to Shut Off Utilities

Earthquakes can cause gas leaks, water leaks, and power outages. Hence, it is important to know how to shut off your utilities to prevent further damages. Ensure that every member of your household knows how to turn off the gas, water, and power.

5. Secure Your Windows

Windows can shatter during an earthquake, leading to injuries or damages. Install shatter-resistant films on your windows to prevent them from breaking. You can also reinforce them with metal frames or shutters.

What to Do During an Earthquake

Knowing what to do during an earthquake can keep you and your loved ones safe. Here’s what you need to do during an earthquake:

1. Stay Calm and Take Cover

The first thing you need to do during an earthquake is to stay calm and take cover. If you are indoors, find a sturdy table or desk and take cover underneath it. If there is no table or desk, go to a corner and protect your head and neck with your arms. Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects.

2. Stay Inside until the Shaking Stops

Do not try to exit the building during the earthquake. Wait until the shaking stops before leaving. If you are outdoors, stay away from buildings, trees, and powerlines.

3. Evacuate Your Home If Necessary

If you notice any damages to your home or smell gas, evacuate immediately. Use the emergency kit and follow the evacuation plan.

4. Stay Informed

After an earthquake, stay informed about the latest developments. Listen to the news and follow the instructions given by the authorities. Do not use your phone unless there is an emergency to avoid network congestion.

What to Do After an Earthquake

After an earthquake, you must assess damages and follow the necessary steps to ensure safety. Here’s what you need to do after an earthquake:

1. Check for Injuries and Damage

Check yourself, your family, and your surroundings for injuries and damages. If there are any injuries, seek medical attention immediately. If there are any damages to your home, assess the severity and call for professional help if needed.

2. Turn Off Utilities If Necessary

If there are any gas leaks, water leaks, or power outages, turn off your utilities to prevent further damages or injuries. Call the relevant authorities and wait for them to arrive before turning your utilities back on.

3. Be Prepared for Aftershocks

Aftershocks can occur after a significant earthquake, so be prepared for them. Stay vigilant and follow the same safety guidelines as you did during the earthquake.

4. Follow the Authorities’ Instructions

Follow the instructions given by the authorities after an earthquake. Do not return to your home or school until you are told that it is safe to do so.

FAQs

Question	Answer
What should I do if I’m driving during an earthquake?	Stop your vehicle in a clear area and stay inside. Avoid bridges, overpasses, and powerlines. Resume driving after the shaking stops.
Can an earthquake trigger a tsunami?	Yes, it can. If you are living in a coastal area, you must have an evacuation plan ready in case of a tsunami warning.
How can I prepare my workplace for an earthquake?	You can follow the same guidelines as preparing your home. Secure heavy furniture and objects, create an emergency kit, and reinforce your building’s foundation.
What should I do if I’m trapped under debris?	Stay calm and try to find a way to signal for help. Use a whistle or shout for help. Avoid using your phone unless there is an emergency to preserve battery.

In conclusion, earthquakes can be devastating, but we can take steps to protect ourselves and our surroundings. Preparing your home and creating an emergency kit can prevent damages, while knowing what to do during and after an earthquake can save lives. Stay safe and informed, and always be prepared.

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