occurrences such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones, etc. Natural disasters are mostly unpredictable, despite so much technological advancement. We do get warnings for heavy rains and cyclones, beyond that, it is not easy. It is therefore good to know what to do in these types of disasters. When disasters strike heavily, there is not much anyone can do, however, often, that is not the case. Low-frequency earth quakes, flooded low-level areas, dams being opened, etc. are what we face commonly. Let us see what we can do to remain safe during such times.
Earthquakes
Here is a set of dos and don’ts for the earthquake scenario
Dos
- If you are indoors and can easily get outside or the tremors are very low, please make your way outside.
- If tremors are heavy, find a sturdy piece of furniture and stay underneath it and hold on.
- Keep away from windows and glasses as they break easily and can fall on you.
- If you are outside, stay away from trees, electric poles, wiring, etc. Find an open ground or wide roads as that is the safest.
- Move outside only when you are sure that the tremors have stopped and nothing seems to be falling around.
Don’ts
- Do not try to rush out if the tremors are heavy and things around you are shaking heavily. Something may fall on you and you may even die.
- Do not use elevators and lifts.
- Do not stay where you are, especially if you are near a wall or any heavy structure that can fall.
- Do not stay under heavy fixtures that can easily fall or break during the tremors.
Floods
They are usually caused in low-lying areas due to heavy rain, dam overflows, etc.
Dos
- Always keep one or two emergency kits ready for survival, if your area is flood-prone.
- Keep emergency lamps charged and check periodically.
- These days, technology helps, follow news and reach out to the local administration and follow their instructions. Ensure you have your power banks charged so the mobiles can keep working until help arrives or power is restored.
- If it is possible, avoid staying in flooded waters, and move to higher floors or terraces till help comes.
- Do not drink tap water or attempt to use any electric appliance as there could be issues.
- Install inverters/generators on the first floor or above to ensure they can work even if the ground floor is flooded.
- Switch off power mains, if required.
Don’ts
- Do not wade through flooded waters. It might be contaminated and also may carry electric current if the wires have been broken.
- Do not attempt to use your vehicles to get away unless the local administration says it is safe to do so.
Cyclones
They are most often predicted by their severity.
Dos
- If you have asked to evacuate to a safer local house, then please do so.
- Follow the news and instructions to know the cyclone movement and destruction if any, the path etc.
- If you have safe shelters or bunkers, then please use them as advised.
- Keep emergency lights powered along with emergency kits to tide out a few days, if required.
- Switch off the power mains, if required.
Don’ts
- Do not step out to check on status unless you are told by the administration that it is safe to do so.
- Do not forward unverified messages that can cause panic.
- Do not try to use vehicles immediately after a cyclone, as the roads are risky and gusty winds may continue.
While these are generic measures, depending on the region and the chances of the disaster happening, local administration proactively keeps passing relevant information. Also, disaster management committees and processes will be in place if you are staying in apartments or communities. Ensure that you attend the awareness sessions on these to know what should be followed. Also, if you are in disaster-prone areas, it is good to have relevant insurance coverage to try and salvage the situation in the worst case.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
15th September 2022.