Do You Know What To Do During an Earthquake?

The devastating loss of life in Asia and Africa serves as a reminder of the random nature in which tragedy can strike. Further, it is notice that no corner of the world is insulated from nature’s fury. Knowing what to do in the event of a natural disaster is somewhat akin to the virus software running on your computer. You only need it when there is a virus attack, and you certainly do not give it much thought when things are normal. Here are some tips to add to that corner of your brain that stores the programs for survival in the face of a natural disaster.

By The World Protection Group

Some of the advice below appears counterintuitive.  Who in their right mind would stay indoors and take a chance on the structure collapsing.  Maybe, but unless you are near the exit, you will not get to it before the shaking stops.  Even if you do, a choice must be made.  Most exits to office buildings and stores are in close proximity or are made out of glass.  This is not where you want to be during an earthquake as glass is one of the greatest hazards.  Ducking into a doorway is also counterintuitive, but again, this depends on what hazards you face from being in close proximity to a structure from which falling debris could cause you serious injury of death.

※Caution: The below is only a guide.  Advance preparation and quick thinking will be your saving grace.

HIGH-RISE BUILDING

Move under a desk or table, or against an interior wall.  Protect your head with your arms.  Do not use the elevators.  Do not be surprised if the alarm or sprinkler systems come on.  Stay indoors and away from the exterior walls of the building -- glass windows can dislodge and sail for hundreds of feet.

OUTDOORS

Get into the open -- away from power lines, trees, and buildings.  Duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass and other debris.

DRIVING

Pull over to the side of the road and stop.  Avoid overpasses, power lines, trees and telephone polls.  Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.

CROWDED PUBLIC PLACE (INDOORS)

Do not rush for the exit.  Move away from display shelves that contain objects that can fall.

STADIUM OR THEATER

Stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms.  Do not try to leave until the shaking is over.  Then, leave in a calm orderly manner.  Avoid rushing the exits.

The World Protection Group, Inc. (WPG) is a Los Angeles-based global provider of executive protection, threat management, uniformed protective services, security consulting, and asset protection.  To learn more about WPG, please contact Kent Moyer, President, at +1-310-390-6646 or by email at kmoyer@theworldprotectiongroup.com.

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