Earthquake

How little awareness can save us?

Why Earthquake Occurs?

Earthquakes usually occurs when the rock mass sitting below the earth surface suddenly rupture along weak zone like geological fault or fractures. Under this process a sudden release of energy generates seismic waves which makes the ground shake. It has to be noted that rocks below the earth surface live in the state of stress. As an instance two blocks side by side are supposed to be like that because of pressure of rock mass from all the directions. In case of any change in the force parameters due to any reasons a sudden breaks occurs which generates tremendous energy most of which is consumed and goes down the earth, and only a small fraction of it reaches earth surface causing devastating earthquakes which we see today in Nepal. The exact spot of the seismic disturbance occurs is called FOCUS of the earthquake. The position on the earth surface right above the focus is called the EPICENTER of the earthquake.

How Earthquake can affect us?

The earthquake hazard poses the most serious intermediate term risk to the health, safety, and economic viability of many parts throughout the world. Buildings, historical monuments, bridges, roads are being destroyed. More to this the it can and has destroys many life in a matter of seconds. Recent earthquakes of Nepal demonstrated the risks to modern industrial societies from such cataclysmic events, affecting everything from massive loss of life, infrastructure damage, and financial instability.

What to do as soon as you know there is Earthquake?

Do you know how to prepare for and survive a major earthquake? According to Department of Conservation scientists, it will be critical to have the right answer to that question somewhere in California sometime in the coming years.

Many people think having bottled water on hand is a good idea. That’s true, as long as you have enough. Many are certain that standing in a doorway during the shaking is a good idea. That’s false, unless you live in an unreinforced abode structure; otherwise, you're more likely to be hurt by the door swinging wildly in a doorway or trampled by people trying to hurry outside if you’re in a public place.

Earthquake Emergency Response Procedures during an Earthquake

If Inside:

Keep calm.
Move away from windows.
Use stairs, not lifts.
Walk; never run.
Stay indoors unless otherwise directed by Head Warden / Person in Charge.
Take cover under solid furniture or doorways.
Move away from anything that could fall on someone.
Curl into “turtle position” and protect the head.

If Outdoors:

Stay clear of buildings and tall structures, trees, high walls, electricity lines –
anything that could fall on someone.
If evacuated, remain at assembly point or as directed by Head Warden / Person in
Charge until all clear is given

After an earthquake:

Look out for live electric wires and any other hazards.
Prepare for aftershocks; more things could fall.
Turn off electricity, gas, and water at mains.
Treat any injuries.
If there is a gas smell, evacuate building as for gas leak.
Conserve water and try to stop any leaks.
If power is cut, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
Ensure utilities are in working order before re-occupying buildings (contact utility company, if required).