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No one enjoys facing natural disasters during their vacation. However, the truth is that there are many risks that can happen to you, especially earthquakes - a type of natural disaster that geologists cannot predict.
What to Do When Encountering an Earthquake While Traveling?
Before traveling, you should research if the place you are going to has experienced any earthquakes before, and what the level of damage was.
Earthquakes occur everywhere around the world, especially in countries in the Pacific Rim such as Japan, China, Indonesia, and Chile.
If you are traveling to a developing country where buildings are not designed to cope with earthquakes, you need to be even more prepared.
You can register for the USGS earthquake alert service and request to receive text messages on your mobile phone. However, ensure your phone will work at your destination.
You should carry a list of emergency contacts such as emergency services, hospitals, embassies, or consulates. If you are not familiar with the local language of your destination, carry a list of words and phrases related to emergency situations.
Upon arrival, check if the hotel room has a suitable place to take shelter in case of an earthquake. Typically, safe places are sturdy walls, windowless areas, and sturdy furniture like desks or under beds.
Additionally, you should plan an evacuation route from the hotel to a safer location after an earthquake and seek higher ground if you are near the ocean, as strong earthquakes can cause tsunamis. Always carry a power bank and keep your phone charged for emergency calls.
During an earthquake, if indoors, immediately seek shelter under a sturdy table and stay calm until the ground stops shaking. If there is no table, sit close to sturdy walls, use your hands to protect your head and neck. Stay away from windows, glass doors, and high furniture.
Do not attempt to go outside until the earthquake is over as falling debris from outside the building can pose a danger to you.
If you are lying on the bed, remain still and use a pillow to protect your head. However, if the bed is next to a window or shelf, leave immediately.
If you are outdoors, stay away from buildings to avoid injury from falling debris and broken glass, stay away from power lines and trees. Choose a safe location to stay still until the earthquake ends.
If you are driving, stop the car and stay inside. Do not stop under bridges or power lines, try to stay away from buildings and trees.
After the earthquake, pay attention to listen to the news, especially tsunami warnings. If you are near the ocean or feel suspicious, immediately evacuate to a higher area at least 15 meters above sea level and stay still there. You only have about 20 to 30 minutes to escape from the area about to be devastated by the tsunami.
Additionally, prepare yourself to deal with aftershocks. Some strong aftershocks are equivalent to the initial earthquake and may cause buildings to collapse completely.
If you smell gas, shut off the valve or leave the area as soon as possible. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker if you see exposed wires, broken wires, or sparks. Do not touch damaged wires.
At this moment, you can call emergency phone numbers, embassies, or hotlines to report your location and condition. Only use the phone if you require urgent assistance.
Wear shoes to protect your feet from shattered glass. If you need to open cabinets, proceed with caution as the earthquake may cause glass to crack and fall onto you.
Remember to clean up spilled liquids or hazardous materials, avoid using the stove for cooking, and refrain from consuming food or drinks from open containers if you notice broken glass nearby.
Do not drink tap water unless you are certain it is not contaminated. Assist those around you by calling for rescue, and avoid moving heavily injured victims.
According to Binh Minh/Tuoi Tre
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourApril 25, 2018
