What to Do During and After an Earthquake While at Work—Here Are Some Essential Tips

The number one rule during a disaster is to never panic. Panicking can cause mass hysteria, which can worsen the situation. It’s essential to know the proper way of carrying yourself and what to do step by step during an earthquake.

Keep yourself sheltered in an office area away from breakable objects such as glass windows and chandeliers. Study each corner and steer away from areas with heavy things as they might fall over you and cause injury. If there is no other available location, remember the Triangle of Life again and position yourself in the safest possible corner.

When you feel the shaking begin, immediately drop down. Cover under a sturdy table or desk and hold on to it until the shaking stops. Be on the lookout for glass windows which might break. Stay away from them and remember the Triangle of Life, an earthquake survival theory that recommends looking for a protective space near solid items. No matter how afraid you are, never close your eyes. You must be aware of what’s happening around you.

Stay put wherever you are until the shaking stops. Think of possible escape routes to the safest area where you can walk calmly after the tremor. Ensure you wear reliable footwear if you have to walk on broken glasses caused by the earthquake.

After the shaking stops, inspect yourself and others while remembering your escape plan. Act immediately while practicing safety and caring for injured persons who need quick attention. Provide necessary help if you are trained or authorized. If trapped in a building, get your first aid kit or use your phone to call for assistance. Wait for instructions from the persons in charge before leaving the area.

Reach for the fastest and safest exit of the building or office area. Beware of collapsing walls and falling debris on your way out, and always protect your head with your hands while going outside. Ensure you wear durable shoes to keep your feet from getting injured. As much as possible, avoid passing through damaged areas. Use the stairs instead of the elevator and evacuate calmly. Don’t forget to grab your 72-hour go bag.

After the shaking stops, it is safe to assume that aftershocks might follow. Please tune in to the local radio station and wait for the authorities’ advisory on what to do, where to evacuate, and when it is safe to go home. Immediately move on to higher areas and government-designated evacuation centers in case of a tsunami alert.

Once you have made sure you’re safe, call your loved ones and tell them about your situation. Immediately ask for help from the authorities if they are trapped in an unlikely position. You can dial 911, the emergency hotline recently launched in the Philippines.

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