What To Do In An Earthquake Nz
An earthquake is a common natural hazard in New Zealand. In the event of an earthquake, it is important to know what to do in order to keep yourself and others safe. This guide provides information on how to prepare for an earthquake, what actions to take during and after an earthquake, and how to stay safe. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of coming out of an earthquake unscathed.In New Zealand, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of an earthquake. Here are some ways to prepare:
• Put together an emergency kit with essential items such as a first aid kit, torch, radio and spare batteries.
• Make sure all family members know what to do in the event of an earthquake – practice this regularly.
• Securely fasten furniture and heavy objects to walls or floor in the house and check that all shelving is secure.
• Ensure your home is well maintained and look for signs of any structural weaknesses or cracks which could be indicative of an earthquake hazard.
• Teach children how to protect themselves during an earthquake, such as “Drop, Cover and Hold”.
• Have a plan for what you will do after an earthquake including where you will go if you need to evacuate your home.
• Check that your home insurance covers damage from earthquakes.
Identify a Safe Place in Your Home
Creating a safe place in your home is an important part of maintaining a secure environment for yourself and your family. A safe place can be a physical space, such as a bedroom or living room, or it can be an emotional space that you create by setting boundaries and expectations. It’s important to identify what kind of safety you need and then create the environment that provides that safety.
Having a physical safe place in your home is key to feeling secure and comfortable. Make sure the space is tidy and organized, with items that make you feel relaxed. This could be something like adding some pillows and blankets to make the area more inviting or hanging art on the walls to add some color. It’s also important to make sure it’s well-lit, so you can see what’s around you if needed.
When creating an emotional safe place within your home, it’s important to set clear boundaries with family members and visitors about what behavior is expected in that space. You should also have access to resources like books or counseling if needed. Finally, try creating some calming activities like yoga or listening to music that will help you relax in this area of your home.
A safe place in your home should be somewhere where you feel comfortable and secure from outside stressors. Identifying this kind of sanctuary allows for peace of mind and provides assurance when times are tough. Whether it’s a physical or emotional space, finding ways to put yourself first will go far towards helping you maintain a sense of security at home.
Familiarise Yourself with the Earthquake Procedures
It is important to familiarise yourself with the procedures for earthquakes. Knowing what to do in the event of an earthquake can help keep you and your family safe. Firstly, if you are inside a building when an earthquake occurs, stay inside and move away from any large windows or furniture that could fall. Move to an inner corner where there are fewer heavy objects such as couches or tables that could move or topple during the shaking. Take cover under a sturdy desk or table and hold on until the shaking stops. If there is no sturdy furniture nearby, use your arms to protect your head and neck from falling debris.
If you are outdoors when an earthquake occurs, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. Once in a safe spot, stay there until the shaking has stopped completely. It is also important to note that aftershocks often follow major earthquakes, so it’s best not to re-enter any buildings until it has been declared safe by local officials.
In addition to familiarising yourself with these safety tips, it is also important to ensure that you have an emergency kit prepared in case of a natural disaster at home. Ensure your kit contains water, non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, flashlights and batteries among other essentials in case of power outages should they occur during an earthquake or other natural disasters such as floods or hurricanes.
