Buzz
Armed with this complete guide, you'll increase your chances of survival if you happen to be near a recently exploded bomb.
The recent bomb explosion in Bangkok, Thailand has left many people in awe of global security turmoil. Our ancestors advised 'be cautious without fear', so prepare yourself with essential strategies and knowledge to increase your chances of survival if you happen to be near a bomb explosion.
1. Be Prepared for Anything
We cannot know what might happen, so always be prepared:
- A cautious mindset: Be cautious about what might happen, but don't let it haunt you. Develop a habit of observing your surroundings when entering a new place. You need to know the exits, emergency escape routes. This skill is also essential for other dangerous situations like fires, earthquakes, robberies...
- Always carry essential emergency items with you: some food, water, backup batteries, flashlight, basic medications (antibiotics, fever reducers, antidiarrheals).
- If you notice any suspicious package, abandoned luggage, or anything similar that may contain explosives, immediately report it to authorities or those in charge.
- Always be ready to listen to evacuation orders. And ensure you have a first aid kit handy when needed.
2. When an Explosion Occurs
In the unfortunate event of being involved in an explosion, the first thing to do is to remain calm. At this moment, only you can help yourself. Don't attempt to check personal belongings or make phone calls, instead focus on reaching a safe place.
During the movement, pay attention to observation:
- Stay away from glass doors and fragile objects. Injuries during explosions often result from flying glass shards, metal pieces, or debris.
- Move low or lie down on the floor. Bombs are designed to eject bomb fragments horizontally, about 60 to 180cm above the ground, to increase damage potential. Additionally, in case of explosion or fire, smoke rises into the air.
- Be mindful of weak structures: floors, staircases, roofs... These are structures that may be damaged in an explosion.
* If Inside a Building
- Use only staircases, avoid elevators.
- Check door handles before opening. If the door handle is hot, find another exit route.
- You can stay put if the building is undamaged, but evacuate quickly if there are signs of radiation or chemical bombs. Cover your nose and mouth, seek a safe shelter.
* If Outdoors
- Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or handkerchief, find a safe shelter.
When the explosion ends and you're still alive, it doesn't mean you're safe. Remember and follow these:
- Evacuate the attacked area as quickly as possible. Absolutely do not return to the scene to collect personal belongings. There have been many cases of consecutive attacks at the same location.
- Stay away from crowds: crowds can be the next target.
- Rescue other victims: Do not attempt to help severely injured individuals unless you understand the first aid procedures clearly.
If unfortunately trapped, remain calm once more and follow these steps:
- Only use flashlights or mobile lights. Do not use matches or lighters to prevent gas leaks. Also, cover your mouth to breathe.
- Attempt to create noise by tapping lightly on pipes or walls to signal rescuers.
By Young Intellectuals
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Explore: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourAugust 18, 2015
