Earthquake Safety Tips

Yesterday, June 25th, 2014, Metro Manila and its surrounding areas were shaken by a 5.7 magnitude earthquake that left many people aghast and on guard. Many were frozen, confused and some even panicked. But in light of the situation, a lot of us still wonder, "What do you do when there is an earthquake?"

Tuggy's Travel counts down a few earthquake safety tips not only for travellers but for everyone as well. Afterall, safety is one thing that we should ensure whenever we face a natural calamity. Here are a few ones that you may find handy whenever an earthquake strikes:

1. Remain calm. Do not break into a panic. Remember to regain your composure as this will help you to think clearly and properly on which step to take next.

2. Find the nearest and most stable piece of furniture you can cling and duck under. The most efficient one are those that will protect you from falling objects and those that will leave a gap beside them when they fall on their sides.

3. Stay away from any pieces of furniture in the middle of the room. They are most likely to fall and crush you.

4. Protect your head from falling debris with anything you can use as a cover. If none are available, use your arms to cover your head.

5. Stay clear from windows and other glass objects. They are most likely to break and cause serious injuries.

6. Avoid the stairs and the elevator as these are most likely to collapse and sustain damages from an earthquake.

7. When outdoors, find an area away from anything that may fall such as trees, buildings and power lines. Cover your head and stay close to the ground.

8. If you find yourself in a moving vehicle, find a clear area to drive to slowly and stop the vehicle. Remain inside until the shaking stops.

9. Always have an emergency plan in mind.

10. Earthquakes often have aftershocks. Remain alert even when the shaking stops and ask for the nearest help possible if ever there are injuries present. Keep emergency numbers handy.