Best Practices on Earthquake Drills

Communities around the world have been shaken by earthquakes. People are now worried about the possibility of earthquakes in their country. Public structures, like school buildings, can be at risk of collapse and injuries and/or deaths can occur. This tragic fact may be attributed to a lack of proper design and/or preparation for this possibility.

These facts should encourage people to set up their own earthquake emergency preparedness plan and regularly conduct earthquake drills.

10 Earthquake Drill Tips to Help Keep Everyone Safe During An Emergency:

1. Be alert, don’t panic.
2. Stay away from heavy objects like bookcases, cabinets and hanging accessories such as chandeliers or ceiling fans.
3. Duck, cover, and hold-fast in a covered position under a solid desk or table.
4. When the shaking has stopped, walk out of the building in an orderly manner while still covering your head with clasped hands.
5. Proceed to designated open spaces.
6. Look out for falling debris.
7. Don’t run or rush.
8. Never attempt to go back inside the building once you are outside.
9. Look around to make sure that everyone is okay
10. Wait for rescuers to arrive.

An earthquake drill is easy to perform when everyone understands the procedures to follow. Giving out clear information about how to behave during an earthquake is very important. Careful planning is the first step towards an effective drill exercise. Regular rehearsal of the earthquake drill exercise will keep everyone on their toes and well-prepared during a possible emergency. All pertinent telephone numbers and public places where help can be obtained must be easily accessible and reviewed during the drill.

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