After an earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale jolted different parts of the country on Tuesday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning that aftershocks are highly likely in the next 24 hours.
When an earthquake strikes, most people believe that the best solution is to run out of their houses and offices but this might not be the safest solution.
Here are a few tips you can follow to be safe:
If you are indoor when an earthquake strikes
Drop, Cover, Hold – Drop to your hands and knees. Cover your head and neck with your hands and hold your position until the tremors stop.
Do not run outside – Falling debris or things from the roof can fall on you.
Avoid using elevators
If you are not near a desk or a table, drop to the floor next to an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms.
If in bed stay there and cover head with a pillow, get out of bed only when tremors stop and wear footwear.
Stay away from glass windows and doors.
Do not go near to any furniture, large appliances, mirrors, cabinets filled with heavy items and hanging objects.
If you are outdoors when an earthquake strikes
Move to a clear area if you can do
so safely. Avoid buildings, power lines, trees and other hazards.
If you are near a tall building then get as far away from it when jolts start.
If you are driving then safely pull over to the side of the road and stop when you are able to do so.
Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs, trees and other things that might collapse or fall on the vehicle.
Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking ends. If a power line falls onto your vehicle, stay inside until a trained person removes the hazard.
