Advice on what to do if an earthquake strikes

By Carl Greaux

I told them that earthquakes strike without warning and it is very important to identify potential dangers and to have a plan in advance in order to reduce panic, injury, loss of life and damage to property.

I advised the recruits that the key is to identify safe places indoors and outdoors, try to and minimize hazards at home and work, and to develop an emergency plan.
 
"In order for this to be successful one must educate oneself, family and friends on what to do if an earthquake strikes. Police are the first responders to any natural disaster and their primary objective is to protect life and property. So get ready.

“If an earthquake strikes and you are at home or at your place of work, drop to the ground and take cover by getting under a sturdy table or desk or other piece of furniture and stay there until the shaking stops."

I told them that if there isn't a table or desk nearby, cover your face and your arms and crouch in a corner of the house or building. "You can use a doorway for shelter only if it is close proximity to you and if you know it is strong."

"Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside their homes and work places attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave. If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, street lights and utility wires.

"Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside homes and buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls. Many injuries occur when people run outside of a building only to be killed by falling debris from collapsing walls."

I further told them that ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury.

 One (1) of the recruits asked, “Suppose you are driving a car and an earthquake strikes?”

"If you’re driving a vehicle and an earthquake strikes, stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Additionally, avoid stopping near or under buildings trees and utility wires. Once the earthquake has stopped, proceed with caution and avoid roads which might have been damaged by the earthquake.”

Finally, I advised the recruits that after an earthquake expect aftershocks.

"These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent than the main earthquake but can be strong enough to cause additional damage to weakened structures as we have seen in Haiti."

I reminded them of their primary duty as a Police Officer that is to protect life and property and we ought to assist and encourage people to help the injured or trapped persons after an earthquake, and to immediately clean up spilled medicines, bleach or other flammable liquids and inspect utilities for gas leaks or electrical damages.

"If damages are found, call an electrician or the appropriate persons to assist you.”

We then reverence ourselves, held hands and prayed for the people of Haiti for restoration and comfort. Let us remember the people of Haiti in our prayers and the advice given to the police recruits.