Preparation for an Earthquake
1. Retrofit your home to withstand an earthquake.
2. Learn safety rules and emergency measures of places where you spend most of your time in (office, school, mall, park).
3. Practice identifying safe and risky places when in a particular building or location, including the nearest evacuation center.
4. Prepare an emergency kit.
Your carry-on kit should include:
- Sugary biscuit/chocolate/protein bar/caramel candy
- whistle/buzzer
- flashlight
- power bank
- water bottle
- Swiss knife
- towelettes
Your Family Emergency kit should include the following basics:
- Canned goods
- can opener/utility knife
- water jug
- portable radio
- power bank
- floodlight/powerful flashlight
- extra batteries
- first aid kit
- whistle/buzzer
- extra clothes
- cash
- blankets
- matches
- hygiene items (e.g. diapers, towelettes, sanitary napkins)
5. Have a communication plan in case mobile and Internet networks no longer work (e.g. where to meet, what to bring).
Safety Tips During an Earthquake
1. DROP, COVER and HOLD ON.
2. If you are near a sturdy object (table) and the path is clear, go under it for added protection.
3. If you are near glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall and the path is clear, move away from them.
4. If outside in the city, it is advised to duck inside a building to avoid falling debris.
5. If in a car, don’t stop near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires.
Safety After the Earthquake
1. Aftershocks may still be in play, so be prepared to DROP, COVER and HOLD ON in case it happens.
2. Remain calm to clear your head.
3. If you are trapped, don’t move or kick up dust. Make noise for rescuers to locate your position.
4. Don’t attempt to rescue anyone, even if it’s a family member or your pet. You’ll put both of your lives in danger. Alert the authorities instead.
5. If at home, shut off your home’s utilities to avoid the risk of fire or flooding.
- Main power switch
- Main water switch
- Gas tank
6. When you’re safe, check for a clear path to safety and go to the nearest open ground or evacuation center.
7. If you’re at home, make sure to lock it down before evacuating.
8. If you have Internet connection on your phone, report to social media about the safety status of your location and who needs help before evacuating.
Contact Numbers you should have on your Phone:
1. Barangay hall
2. Nearest hospitals
3. Nearest police station
4. Nearest fire station
5. NDRRMC
Take this quiz to find out if you’re ready for “The Big One” in Metro Manila.
