AS I write this, there have been several earthquakes in different parts of the country, with many of these movements affecting the city of Batangas. People have come out with messages that we should not focus our attention on this fearful scenario, because it accumulates a collective energy of anxiety and apprehension.
While I believe that it is more important to focus on the positive, I also think every Filipino must prepare for the possibility of a strong earthquake. We must know what to do, where to go and inform ourselves about how we, including our loved ones, can stay safe in the event of a big quake.
The Red Cross offers some advice, including the earthquake SOP “Drop. Cover. Hold on”. Teach it to your household members, including children. As far as doorways are concerned, these cannot offer certain protection, so it is better to look for sturdy furniture, like a big table, and hide there until the shaking stops.
Before it happens, though, it is imperative that everyone gets his or her grab bag ready, or an Emergency Preparedness Kit. Each household needs to create its own household evacuation plan, and include there a plan on how to evacuate pets. I could discuss these items further in future columns.
Your local community, according to the Red Cross, needs to have a risk and response plan. What does one need to do before, during and after an earthquake? How could victims be rescued? These, among other information, should be in that community plan. Find out if your community has one, and secure a copy for your home. As far as evacuation is concerned, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority listed down these evacuation centers in case of a strong Manila earthquake: https://philnews.ph/2015/05/20/mmda-lists-of-evacuation-centers-in-case-of-7-2-magnitude-manila-earthquake/#.WOdUfVuTMlc.facebook
If you find yourself inside your home or a building during a tremor, avoid moving around too much. A lot of people who sustain injuries are those who keep moving around while the shaking is happening. Heavy objects could fall on you, or you could sustain fractures or injuries to the torso. Protect your head and upper body. If you are in bed, stay there, curl up, hold on and protect your head until the earthquake stops. Stay inside the house or building, and come out only when you are sure that it is safe to do so. If you are going outside, use the stairs and not the elevators. If you smell gas, go out and stay as far away as possible from the source. But before you head out, make sure there is no debris that could fall on you.
If you happen to be outside when an earthquake strikes, find an open space where you could drop to the ground until it stops. Stay away from buildings, wires and electric cables, trees and posts. If you are inside a vehicle, find a clear space and pull over. Avoid bridges, flyovers and electrical wires. Stay in the vehicle and wear your seat belt. You can start driving carefully once the tremors are over, but avoid bridges and flyovers that may have been damaged during the quake. If a cable or wire falls on your vehicle, just wait for assistance and do not attempt to go out. If you are near mountains, hills, or unstable slopes, watch out for falling debris or landslides.